Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Invisalign
- I have always been bothered by my crooked front teeth. Can Invisalign help?
- How effective are plastic 'aligners' at straightening teeth?
- I am keen to improve my smile. Are there any newer or advanced cosmetic straightening techniques that you recommend?
- How long does is typically take for teeth to straighten?
- My best friend used to have braces and she always had to be so careful with what she ate and drank when we went out. I don't want that hassle.
- My new job involves making presentations to very senior executives. I am really embarrassed by my teeth but can't imagine showing up to the office with a 'metal mouth' - no one would take me seriously! Are there any other options?
- I have very sensitive teeth and I have heard that braces can sometimes harm tooth enamel. Is there a way to avoid this?
- I had like to get braces but all of my friends say they are really uncomfortable. Are there types of braces that are more comfortable than others?
- Do invisible looking braces cost a lot more than metal braces?
Q I have always been bothered by my crooked front teeth. Can Invisalign help?
Invisalign is an effective invisible and healthy way of correcting crooked teeth. You do not have to wear metal braces, have teeth filed down for veneers or even in most cases have teeth extracted just to treat crooked front teeth.
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Q How effective are plastic 'aligners' at straightening teeth?
Invisalign aligners are not just plastic aligners. They are custom made using Cad Cam technology. Each aligner is programmed to gently move the teeth by 0.3mm increments. The forces are precise, accurate and do not damage the roots of the teeth. In over 4 years of treating Invisalign patients and having treated over 550 patients I have never had the need to use fixed metal braces or veneers.
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Q I am keen to improve my smile. Are there any newer or advanced cosmetic straightening techniques that you recommend?
Invisalign incorporates the latest technologies including CT scanning of study models. 3D computer modelling and mapping of individual tooth movements. These movements are incorporated into a software programme called Clincheck. The Clincheck sequence can then be converted into individual prescription aligners. Invisalign allows you and your dentist to measure and plan your orthodontic treatment even before you start. It's like a Time Machine.
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Q How long does is typically take for teeth to straighten?
Response should mention that treatment time can vary depending on the case + how the teeth need to be moved. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months (sometimes even quicker than traditional braces) and average number of aligners worn during treatment is 11-30, but obviously it varies. You will visit your orthodontist about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
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Q My best friend used to have braces and she always had to be so careful with what she ate and drank when we went out. I don't want that hassle.
Invisalign allows you to go out when you want to. No longer will you be embarrassed to eat and drink because Invisalign aligners can be taken out. You can even drink with Invisalign. They are virtually invisible and you will not have to worry about food crumbs between your braces.
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Q My new job involves making presentations to very senior executives. I am really embarrassed by my teeth but can't imagine showing up to the office with a 'metal mouth' - no one would take me seriously! Are there any other options?
If your smile is embarrassing you and giving you low esteem then Invisalign can help. Invisalign is virtually invisible, makes little difference to your speech, and even makes your teeth look whiter. So you can excel at what you do and have your teeth straightened.
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Q I have very sensitive teeth and I have heard that braces can sometimes harm tooth enamel. Is there a way to avoid this?
Gum disease and dental decay are caused by germs and sugars; Invisalign is removable and allows you to clean your teeth effectively. Invisalign also does not irritate the gums like metal braces.
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Q I had like to get braces but all of my friends say they are really uncomfortable. Are there types of braces that are more comfortable than others?
Discuss that unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets, Wires or sharp edges to cause mouth irritations. Invisalign braces are molded to the shape of your teeth, only 0.3mm thick and do not stick into the cheeks or lips.....
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Q Do invisible looking braces cost a lot more than metal braces?
Procedures such as lingual braces (braces glued to the inside of your teeth) can be pricier... The Invisalign treatment however does not cost significantly more than traditional braces and (most?) good dentists will offer a free consultation without 'strings' so that you can discuss your needs. Also worth highlighting Invisalign involves less dental visits, less pain if any, no fractured wires, wax strips, more going out to social events, no hiding in dark corners. no time off for extractions as there are very few. Less disruption to your like is what you are paying for.
