Everything You Need To Know About Invisalign

Invisalign has become a popular choice for orthodontic treatment, and for a good reason! This type of treatment uses clear aligners custom-made to fit your teeth, making them virtually invisible.

In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about Invisalign, from how it works to the cost and benefits. Keep reading to learn more!

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a type of clear aligner used to improve the appearance of teeth, creating a beautiful smile. It is a popular alternative to braces and uses advanced technology to achieve straight teeth.

Unlike braces, which are made of metal and are attached to the teeth, Invisalign consists of a series of clear, custom-made aligners for each patient. The plastic aligners are worn over the teeth and gradually move them into the desired position.

Invisalign is less noticeable than metal braces and can be removed for eating and cleaning. This is the reason why it has become the go-to choice for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth without having to wear visible braces.

Aside from aesthetics, there are more benefits to using Invisalign that some people may not be aware of.

What Benefits Does Invisalign Offer?

The benefits of using Invisalign are numerous, which is why it has become a popular treatment option for straightening teeth. They include:

• Invisalign is comfortable
  The appliance is made of plastic and is smooth, so it does not cause irritation or soreness as traditional metal braces can. There are no metal brackets or wires to irritate your mouth and gums.
• Invisalign is discreet
  The clear aligners are virtually invisible, so no one will know you are wearing them unless you tell them or they see them up close. This is a big selling point for many adults who are hesitant to wear braces.
• Invisalign is removable
  You can take the aligners out to eat, drink, brush your teeth, and floss. This makes it easy to keep your teeth clean and healthy while you are wearing them. This also means you can still enjoy your favourite foods while wearing invisible braces.
• Invisalign is effective
  The aligners gradually move your teeth into the correct position to give you straighter teeth. This means that if you follow your dentist’s instructions, you will not have to worry about your teeth moving back into their original position after you finish wearing the aligners.
• Invisalign is versatile
  It can be used to correct a wide variety of orthodontic problems, including crooked teeth, overbites, and underbites.

All of these factors make Invisalign an attractive option for those who are looking to improve their smile.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign works to straighten teeth through a series of clear, removable aligners which gently move teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks and is then replaced by the next set in the series.

Invisalign requires no metal brackets or wires, making it a more comfortable option for many people.

The step-by-step process of Invisalign goes like this:

1. During the initial consultation, your dentist will examine if you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign. They will also take x-rays and impressions of your teeth.
2. The scans and images will be used to create a 3D model of your teeth, which will show how they are currently aligned.
3. This model will also be used to create your customised Invisalign treatment plan.
4. You will then be given your first set of aligners and need to wear them for at least 20 hours each day.
5. After two weeks, you will switch to the next set of aligners in the series.
6. You will continue doing this until you have reached the final stage of your treatment plan.
7. Once you have completed your treatment plan, you will need to wear your retainers for as long as your dentist recommends. Some people undergo a refinement period before the final retainer stage.

What Is A Refinement Period?

A refinement period is an important step in the Invisalign treatment process that helps to achieve the ideal results. This period occurs after the initial alignment phase is completed and before the final retainer stage.

The refinement period generally takes a few to several months. However, this varies individually, depending on each patient’s condition. During this time, your dentist will continue to adjust the aligners to ensure that your teeth are moving in the right direction.

Refinement periods are important because they allow for corrections to be made that can improve the overall results of the treatment. Without them, it is possible for small problems with tooth alignment to persist, which can ultimately lead to a less satisfactory outcome.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

Invisalign treatment is a fairly simple process that usually takes between 12 and 18 months. It must be noted that this can change depending on individual factors. Some patients may need to wear their aligners for a shorter period of time, while others may need to wear them for a bit longer.

The first step is to take impressions of your teeth so that a custom-made set of aligners can be created for you. You will then wear the aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set in the series. You will continue this process until your teeth have been straightened.

One of the advantages of Invisalign treatment is that you can continue to eat and drink whatever you like, and you can also brush and floss your teeth as normal. However, you will need to wear the aligners for at least 20 hours a day to increase the likelihood of successful treatment.

If you are considering Invisalign treatment, it is important to speak to your dentist to find out whether it is the right option for you. Invisalign is not suitable for everyone, so your dentist will be able to advise you on the appropriate course of action.

Am I A Candidate For Invisalign?

Invisalign candidates are typically people with mild to moderate cases of misaligned teeth and those who are not happy with the appearance of their smile.

Good candidates are people with dental issues such as:

• Crooked teeth:
  Crooked teeth can be difficult to manage, but Invisalign can be a great option for patients looking to address misalignment. Invisalign gently aligns your teeth over time. Because of this, you can enjoy straighter teeth that are easier to clean and that let you smile confidently.
• Gaps in their teeth:
  Invisalign is a popular treatment for addressing gaps between teeth. To close teeth gaps with Invisalign, the aligners put gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. The length of treatment depends on the severity of the dental problem, but most patients see results within several months.
• An overbite or underbite:
  Many people suffer from bite issues such as an overbite or underbite, which can cause many problems ranging from difficulty eating to speech impairments. An overbite is when the upper teeth protrude too far forwards or the lower teeth are too far back. An underbite is when the lower teeth protrude too far forward, or the upper teeth are too far back. Invisalign can be used to correct mild to moderate cases of both of these problems.
• Crowded Teeth:
  When teeth are too close together, it can make cleaning difficult, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. By gently shifting the teeth into their proper position, Invisalign can help to reduce the likelihood of these problems and improve oral health.

Additionally, the ideal candidate for Invisalign should typically have:

• Fewer than 12 missing teeth
• No major bite problems
• Healthy tooth enamel to support the aligners
• A good oral hygiene routine
• The ability to commit to wearing the aligners and to visit the dentist regularly for check-ups

Being informed doesn’t stop with simply knowing whether you’re a suitable candidate for Invisalign or not. You should also be aware of the possible side effects associated with the treatment.

What Side Are Effects Associated With Invisalign?

Not all patients will have the same experience with Invisalign. For some people, Invisalign may cause the following side effects:

• Allergies to the plastic materials in the Invisalign aligners:
  Invisalign may cause allergies because it’s made of plastic. Some people may be allergic to the BPA (Bisphenol A) found in Invisalign. If you’re allergic to BPA, you may experience hives, skin rashes, and difficulty breathing.
• Discomfort, including pain, during wear:
  Some patients may experience discomfort or pain with Invisalign. This is because the aligners put pressure on your teeth to move them into the correct position. This pressure can cause pain or sensitivity to your teeth.
• Gum irritation or infection:
  Invisalign can also cause gum irritation or infection. This is because the aligners can trap bacteria on your gums. When bacteria build up on the aligners, it can lead to gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. If left unmanaged, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious infection of the tissues and bones that support the teeth.
• Tooth decay:
  If you don’t brush and floss your teeth properly, you may be at risk for tooth decay. This is because the aligners can trap food and plaque on your teeth.
• Temporarily increased tooth sensitivity:
  One potential downside of Invisalign is increased tooth sensitivity. While the aligners are made of smooth plastic, they can still rub against your gums and teeth, irritating them and causing discomfort. In addition, the process of moving your teeth can also lead to sensitivity.
• Staining of the teeth:
  The clear aligners are made of a smooth plastic material designed to fit snugly over the teeth. However, this smooth surface can also trap stains, which can be difficult to remove. In addition, the aligners are semi-permeable, which means they can absorb small amounts of stain-causing substances like coffee and tea. As a result, people who wear Invisalign may notice that their teeth become stained more easily than before.
• Crooked teeth after treatment is complete:
  It’s important to be aware that Invisalign can cause crooked teeth after treatment is complete. If the patient doesn’t wear the aligners for the prescribed amount of time each day, or if they don’t follow their dentist’s instructions carefully, this can also lead to crooked teeth after Invisalign treatment.

In addition to the common side effects associated with braces, Invisalign has certain risks or complications specifically associated with it:

• Invisalign is not always effective.
  Some people find that their teeth do not shift as much as they had hoped after starting treatment. If this is the case, you may need to switch to traditional braces or consider other treatment options.
• Invisalign requires compliance.
  It is important to remove your aligners for at least two hours each day to allow your teeth and oral structures to rest. Brush your teeth and floss thoroughly after each use. If you do not remove your aligners regularly, bacteria will build up and cause bad breath, tooth decay or gum disease.
• Invisalign can cause discomfort in the beginning stages of treatment.
  Many people experience soreness and difficulty speaking clearly when they first start using Invisalign. Patients usually adapt within a few days or weeks.
• Invisalign may not be suitable for everyone.
  People with severely crooked teeth or a very complex bite may require other types of treatment, such as traditional braces or surgery.

Will I Need Retainers After Invisalign Treatment?

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering if you’ll need to wear retainers after the treatment is finished.

The good news is that you won’t need to wear retainers all the time, but you will need to wear them for a certain amount of time each day. This is because your teeth may revert back to their original positions. Wearing retainers helps to prevent this from happening.

In most cases, you’ll need to wear retainers for a maximum of 22 hours per day for the first six months after Invisalign treatment. After that, you can reduce the amount of time you wear them to just a few hours per night.

If you don’t wear retainers as recommended, there’s a chance that your teeth will shift back out of alignment. So, to keep your new smile looking its best, follow your dentist’s instructions on wearing retainers.

How Do I Care For My Invisalign Aligners?

Here are a few tips to help you take care of your Invisalign aligners:

• Brush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear soap. Be sure to brush gently to avoid damaging the aligners.
• Be sure to remove your aligners before eating and drinking anything other than water.
• To keep your Invisalign aligners clean and free of bacteria, it is important to rinse them with water after each use.
• Rinse them well after brushing to remove any soap residue.
• Store them in the provided case when you are not wearing them. This will help to keep them clean and free from dust and other particles.
• If you eat something sticky, brush your teeth and aligners immediately afterwards.
• Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist or orthodontist to ensure that your treatment is on track.
• Have them replaced every two weeks or according to your dentist’s recommendations.

If you’re wearing Invisalign, there are a few things you’ll want to avoid doing or eating.

• Avoid toothpaste with abrasive particles, as these can scratch the aligners.
• Avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods as they can adhere to the aligners and be difficult to remove.
• Avoid sugary drinks, as the sugar can cling to your aligners and promote tooth decay.
• Avoid hot drinks like coffee or tea, as they can cause your aligners to warp. Avoid using tobacco products, as they can cause staining and discolouration.
• Avoid putting your Invisalign in mouthwash or any other cleaning solutions. This may damage them and reduce their effectiveness in straightening your teeth.

By following these simple guidelines, you can maintain your Invisalign aligners and maintain your beautiful, straight smile.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

Generally, Invisalign treatment costs between $6,000 and $9,000. However, it is important to note that the cost of Invisalign in Australia can vary greatly depending on various factors, such as:

• The Complexity of the Case
  One of the main factors affecting the cost of Invisalign is the complexity of the case. If the patient’s case requires more time, effort, and materials because of the severity of the misalignment, then the treatment will naturally be more expensive.
• Your Dentist’s Location
  Location is also a factor that affects the cost of Invisalign treatment. Generally, practitioners in major cities charge more than those in rural areas.
• Your Dentist’s Experience
  Practitioners may also charge different prices for Invisalign treatment. Dentists who are reputable, highly trained and experienced may charge more than general practitioners. However, the results you achieve will likely be worth the investment.
• Additional Dental Work Needed
  In some cases, patients may need additional dental work such as tooth extractions or the use of a palate expander. These procedures will add to the cost of Invisalign treatment.

There are several ways to pay for Invisalign treatment. You can either pay for it outright or take a loan from a bank or dental financing company. Some dental insurance policies also cover part or all of the cost of Invisalign treatment.

However, it is important to do your research, seek professional advice and compare prices before making a decision. It is highly recommended that you call the dental clinic to ask for their price.

Will Health Insurance Cover Invisalign Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, is often considered a cosmetic procedure by most health insurance companies. However, there are some instances in which Invisalign may be covered.

However, if your dentist has determined that this procedure is medically necessary, your health insurance will more likely cover the fees or a part of it. For example, your teeth are causing pain or impacting your ability to eat.
The amount of coverage will vary from policy to policy, and some plans may only cover a portion of the Invisalign treatment cost. It’s always best to check with your insurer directly to see what orthodontic services they will and will not cover and what kind of coverage is available for Invisalign treatment.

If your health insurance doesn’t cover the cost of Invisalign treatment, there are other ways to pay. In Australia, there are a few different options to pay for Invisalign treatment without health insurance.

• Payment Plans:
  One option is to use a payment plan through your dentist. Many dentists offer payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of treatment over several months or even years.
• Personal Loan:
  Personal loans can be used for various purposes, including Invisalign treatment. You can typically get a personal loan with a low-interest rate, which can help to make Invisalign treatment more affordable.
• Government Programs:
  Several government initiatives can help cover the cost of Invisalign treatment. For example, the Australian government offers a range of financial assistance programs for dental care.
• Third-Party Financing:
  Another option is to use a third-party financing company. Many companies offer to finance for Invisalign treatment and typically have flexible repayment options.
• Credit Card:
  You can use a credit card to pay for Invisalign treatment. However, it’s important to be aware that this option may not be the best choice if you cannot pay off your credit card balance in full each month.

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, explore all your payment options before beginning treatment.

Final Thoughts

Invisalign is a popular treatment option for patients of all ages who are looking to straighten their teeth without the hassle of traditional braces.

If you’re considering Invisalign, the best way to know you’re getting the right procedure is to consult a qualified dentist. They will be able to advise you on the ideal course of treatment. Based on your individual needs. Book an appointment through our website or call Maylands Dental Centre at (08) 9370 5464 today!