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Smile Perfections

Smile Perfections Dental & Cosmetic Clinic

  • 34 Harborough Road
  • Leicester
  • LE2 4LA
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Invisalign Oadby, Leicester

Are you looking for a clear teeth-straightening option? Smile Perfections offers a convenient option with our Invisalign® braces.

Invisalign® offers discreet teeth straightening option for adults and teenagers. If you are suffering from mild to severe orthodontic issues, you can benefit from the rewards of Invisalign®. Results often occur in a timeframe of six to eighteen months, depending on the level of correction needed.

How does Invisalign® work?

Invisalign® braces enhance teeth alignment gradually through clear aligners, which are replaced every two weeks. During the treatment period, patients should wear the removable aligners, which are transparent, for approximately 22 hours each day.

Understanding the Invisalign® procedure

The treatment focuses on the patient’s comfort and flexibility while using modern techniques of orthodontic treatment. These clear aligners provide adults and teenagers with improved facial aesthetics and dental function.

During the first consultation, the dentist will assess your suitability for the treatment and also take teeth impressions. We use 3D imagery to ensure your Invisalign® aligners are custom-made perfectly. Our dentists also create a full treatment plan so that they can follow up on your progress. Upon the aligners’ completion, we fit them in order to provide optimum comfort for the patient.

The dentist will assess alignment progress during treatment. Also, your aligners must be replaced every two weeks to achieve optimum results. After the treatment, we provide patients with a retainer to prevent their teeth’s relapse.

Invisalign® over traditional braces

Because it is easy-to-remove, you can eat whatever you want whenever you want without worrying about getting food stuck in your teeth. It also allows you to brush and floss your teeth normally for better oral health.

Why Invisalign® is the right choice for you

Invisalign® treatment offers a discreet option for those who seek straighter teeth. During the treatment process, your teeth slowly move to their correct position, preserving self-image and improving confidence. Self-conscious teenagers and adults will greatly benefit from the invisible power of Invisalign® braces.

The comfortable invisible braces are removable for easier maintenance and to perfectly fit with your oral hygiene. Within a short timeframe, patients receive straighter teeth that enhance their natural beauty.

If you are unhappy with your smile, contact our dental practice today for our Invisalign® options. Arrange an appointment with us and we will be more than happy to help.

 

INVISALIGN LEICESTER – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth using a series of clear, removable aligners as an alternative to traditional metal braces. These custom-made, virtually invisible aligners are made from a smooth, BPA-free plastic material that fits snugly over your teeth.

Discreet and Comfortable Clear Braces

Nearly Invisible Appearance

One of the main advantages of Invisalign is its discreet appearance. The aligners are made from a clear, transparent plastic material that is nearly invisible when worn, allowing you to straighten your teeth without the noticeable metal wires and brackets of traditional braces. This makes Invisalign an attractive option for adults and professionals who want to maintain a polished appearance during their orthodontic treatment.

Customised Treatment Plan

3D Imaging and Digital Mapping

The Invisalign treatment process begins with a thorough examination and 3D digital imaging of your teeth and bite. This allows your dentist or orthodontist to create a precise, customised treatment plan that maps out the step-by-step movements required to shift your teeth into the desired position. Using this digital model, a series of clear aligners is then manufactured specifically for your unique dental structure.

Gradual Tooth Movement

Clear Aligner Progression

You will receive a new set of aligners every few weeks, each slightly different from the previous set. These aligners apply gentle, controlled force to gradually move your teeth into their proper position. You simply wear each set of aligners for approximately 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. As you progress through the series of aligners, your teeth will gradually shift into their desired, straighter position.

With its discreet appearance, customised treatment plans, and convenient removable aligners, Invisalign offers a comfortable and effective solution for straightening teeth without the hassle and visibility of traditional metal braces.

How does Invisalign differ from traditional metal braces?

While both Invisalign and traditional metal braces aim to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, there are several key differences between these two orthodontic treatments. Understanding these distinctions can help you make an informed decision about which option may be better suited for your needs and lifestyle.

Appearance and Visibility

Clear Aligners vs. Metal Appliances

The most obvious difference between Invisalign and traditional braces lies in their appearance. Invisalign uses a series of clear, virtually invisible plastic aligners, while traditional braces involve metal brackets and wires that are highly visible on the teeth. This makes Invisalign a more discreet option for adults and professionals who prefer a less noticeable orthodontic treatment.

Removability

Fixed vs. Removable Appliances

Another significant distinction is that Invisalign aligners are completely removable, while traditional braces are fixed appliances that cannot be taken off until the treatment is complete. This removability allows Invisalign patients to eat, drink, brush, and floss without any obstructions, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment. With traditional braces, certain foods may need to be avoided to prevent damage to the brackets or wires.

Invisalign Treatment Duration

Shorter Treatment Time

In many cases, Invisalign treatment can be completed in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional braces. While treatment times can vary depending on the complexity of the case, Invisalign often requires fewer office visits and a shorter overall treatment duration. This can be particularly appealing for adults who want to achieve their desired results efficiently.

Comfort and Convenience

Smooth Plastic vs. Metal Wires and Brackets

Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, comfortable plastic material that does not irritate the inside of the mouth or cheeks like the metal wires and brackets of traditional braces can. Additionally, since the aligners are removable, patients can take them out for special occasions, eating, or cleaning, providing added convenience compared to the fixed nature of traditional braces.

While both Invisalign and traditional braces are effective orthodontic treatments, Invisalign offers a more discreet, comfortable, and convenient option for many patients, particularly adults seeking a less noticeable and less restrictive approach to straightening their teeth.

What types of teeth issues can Invisalign correct?

Invisalign is a versatile orthodontic treatment that can address a wide range of dental misalignments and bite issues. While traditional metal braces may be better suited for more complex cases, Invisalign can effectively correct many common teeth straightening concerns.

Crowding and Orthodontic Spacing Issues

Overlapped or Gapped Teeth

One of the most common dental issues that Invisalign can correct is crowding or spacing problems. If your teeth are overlapped or too closely spaced together, Invisalign can gradually shift them into proper alignment, creating a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile. Similarly, if you have gaps or spaces between your teeth, the aligners can gently guide the teeth into their ideal positions, closing the gaps.

Bite Misalignments

Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite

Invisalign can also effectively treat various types of bite misalignments, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. These issues occur when the upper and lower jaws do not align properly, leading to an improper fit between the teeth. The customised aligners can gradually reposition the teeth and jaws to correct these bite problems, improving both function and appearance.

Teeth Straightening

Crooked or Twisted Teeth

In addition to addressing spacing and bite issues, Invisalign is highly effective at straightening crooked or twisted teeth. Whether you have a single tooth that is significantly out of alignment or several teeth that are rotated or tilted, the progressive aligner series can gently guide them into their proper positions, resulting in a straighter, more uniform smile.

Relapse Prevention

Maintaining Alignment After Clear Braces

Invisalign can also be used as a retention method to prevent relapse after traditional braces treatment. After the braces are removed, some patients may experience minor shifting or crowding of the teeth over time. Wearing Invisalign aligners as a retainer can help maintain the achieved alignment and prevent the teeth from moving back to their original positions.

While the specific issues that can be treated with Invisalign may vary depending on the individual case and the dentist’s assessment, this innovative orthodontic system offers a versatile solution for addressing a wide range of dental alignment and bite concerns.

How long does the Invisalign treatment process typically take?

The duration of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the dental issues being addressed and the individual’s specific needs. However, most patients can expect the process to take anywhere from 6 to 18 months, with the average treatment time being around 12 to 14 months.

Treatment Phases

Initial Consultation and Planning

The first phase of the Invisalign process involves an initial consultation with your dentist or orthodontist. During this appointment, they will assess your teeth, take impressions or digital scans, and discuss your desired treatment outcomes. Using these records, your customised treatment plan will be developed, outlining the sequence of aligner sets required to achieve your desired results.

Aligner Progression

Periodic Aligner Changes

Once your custom aligners have been fabricated, you will begin wearing them according to the prescribed schedule. Typically, you will need to change to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, as each aligner is designed to make small, incremental adjustments to your teeth. The frequency of aligner changes will depend on the complexity of your case and the recommendation of your dental professional.

Treatment Monitoring

Regular Check-ups

Throughout the Invisalign treatment process, you will need to attend regular check-up appointments with your dentist or orthodontist, usually every 6 to 8 weeks. During these visits, they will monitor your progress, ensure the aligners are fitting properly, and provide you with the next sets of aligners as needed. These check-ups are essential for ensuring your treatment stays on track and for making any necessary adjustments to your plan.

Refinement and Retention

Final Touches and Retainers

Once you have progressed through the entire series of aligners, your dentist will evaluate the final alignment of your teeth. In some cases, minor refinements or additional aligners may be required to achieve the desired results. Once your treatment is complete, you will likely need to wear a retainer to help maintain the new positioning of your teeth and prevent any relapse.

While treatment times can vary, most patients can expect to achieve their desired smile within 6 to 18 months of starting Invisalign treatment, provided they follow the prescribed schedule and attend all necessary appointments.

Can I remove the Invisalign aligners for eating and brushing?

One of the significant advantages of Invisalign over traditional metal braces is that the clear aligners are removable. This feature allows you to take them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, ensuring a more comfortable and convenient experience during your orthodontic treatment.

Eating and Drinking

Removing Aligners

Yes, you can and should remove your Invisalign aligners when you are eating or drinking anything other than water. This is because food particles and beverages like coffee, tea, or juices can become trapped inside the aligners, potentially staining or damaging them. By removing the aligners during meals and snacks, you can enjoy your favorite foods without any restrictions or worries about getting them stuck in your aligners.

Oral Hygiene

Brushing and Flossing

It is also crucial to remove your Invisalign aligners when brushing and flossing your teeth. This allows you to properly clean your teeth and gums without any obstructions, ensuring that you maintain optimal oral hygiene throughout your treatment. Proper brushing and flossing while wearing Invisalign aligners is essential for preventing plaque buildup, cavities, and other dental issues.

Reinserting Aligners

Wear Time Guidelines

While you can remove your Invisalign aligners for eating, drinking, and oral care, it is recommended to wear them for at least 20-22 hours per day to ensure effective and timely treatment progress. After removing the aligners, be sure to rinse them with water before reinserting them into your mouth. This helps to remove any food debris or residue that may have accumulated on the aligners.

Proper Care and Maintenance

Cleaning Aligners

In addition to rinsing your aligners after removal, it is essential to clean them regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and approved cleaning solutions or tablets provided by your dentist or orthodontist. This helps to maintain the aligners’ clarity and prevent discoloration or buildup of bacteria, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic wearing experience.

The ability to remove Invisalign aligners for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene not only adds convenience to your treatment but also promotes better overall dental health and comfort throughout the process.

What are the advantages of choosing Invisalign over metal braces?

Invisalign offers several advantages over traditional metal braces, making it an attractive option for many individuals seeking a more discreet and convenient orthodontic treatment. Here are some of the key benefits of choosing Invisalign:

Discreet Appearance

Nearly Invisible Aligners

One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its discreet appearance. The aligners are made of clear, virtually invisible plastic, making them much less noticeable than the metal wires and brackets of traditional braces. This can be particularly appealing for adults and professionals who want to maintain a polished, confident appearance during their treatment.

Comfort and Convenience

Smooth Plastic and Removability

Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, comfortable plastic that does not irritate the inside of the mouth or cheeks like metal braces can. Additionally, the aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, drink, brush, and floss without any obstructions. This level of convenience not only makes oral hygiene easier but also enables you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions.

Fewer Dietary Restrictions

No Food Limitations

Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can take them out when eating or drinking, eliminating the need to avoid certain foods that may get stuck or damage traditional braces. This means you can enjoy a wider variety of foods without worrying about potential breakages or dental emergencies.

Fewer Dental Appointments

Shorter Office Visits

Invisalign treatment typically requires fewer dental appointments and shorter office visits compared to traditional braces. With metal braces, regular adjustments are necessary to tighten the wires or replace broken brackets. Invisalign, on the other hand, involves simply switching to the next set of pre-fabricated aligners at designated intervals, often requiring less chair time at the dental office.

Improved Oral Hygiene

Better Cleaning Access

Maintaining proper oral hygiene can be challenging with traditional braces due to the fixed metal brackets and wires. With Invisalign, you can remove the aligners for brushing and flossing, allowing for easier access to all areas of your teeth and gums. This can help reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues during your treatment.

While both Invisalign and metal braces are effective orthodontic treatments, Invisalign offers a more discreet, comfortable, and convenient solution for many individuals seeking to improve their smile without the aesthetic and practical drawbacks associated with traditional braces.

How often do I need to change to a new set of Invisalign aligners?

The frequency with which you change to a new set of Invisalign aligners is crucial to the success and progress of your treatment. Typically, you will need to switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, although the exact interval may vary depending on your specific case and your dentist’s or orthodontist’s recommendations.

Aligner Progression

Sequential Tooth Movements

Invisalign treatment involves a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners designed to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions. Each aligner in the sequence is slightly different from the previous one, applying gentle but precise forces to move your teeth incrementally. As your teeth gradually adjust to the new position prescribed by one aligner, it becomes necessary to transition to the next set to continue the orthodontic progression.

Typical Aligner Change Interval

One to Two Weeks

For most patients, the recommended interval for changing to a new set of Invisalign aligners is every one to two weeks. This timeframe allows your teeth to adjust to the new positioning prescribed by each aligner while ensuring that the treatment progresses at an optimal pace. Following this schedule is crucial to achieving the desired results within the anticipated treatment duration.

Monitoring and Adjustments

Regular Check-ups

Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you will need to attend regular check-up appointments with your dental professional, typically every six to eight weeks. During these visits, your progress will be evaluated, and any necessary adjustments to the aligner change schedule will be made. In some cases, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend a slightly longer or shorter interval between aligner changes, depending on how your teeth are responding to the treatment.

Compliance and Wear Time

Consistent Aligner Wear

It’s important to follow your dentist’s or orthodontist’s instructions regarding aligner wear time and change intervals. Invisalign aligners should be worn for at least 20-22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear and timely aligner changes are essential for achieving the desired results within the estimated treatment duration.

By adhering to the prescribed aligner change schedule and attending regular check-up appointments, you can ensure that your Invisalign treatment progresses efficiently and effectively, ultimately helping you achieve a beautiful, straight smile.

Will Invisalign aligners affect my speech or appearance?

One of the primary advantages of Invisalign over traditional metal braces is its discreet appearance and minimal impact on your daily life. However, some patients may have concerns about whether the aligners will affect their speech or overall appearance during treatment.

Speech Adaptation

Temporary Adjustment Period

When you first start wearing Invisalign aligners, you may experience a temporary, slight lisp or difficulty with certain speech sounds. This is because your tongue and mouth muscles need to adjust to the presence of the smooth plastic aligners. However, this adjustment period is typically brief, and most patients become accustomed to speaking normally with the aligners within a few days.

Aligner Fit and Design

Precise Customization

Invisalign aligners are designed to fit snugly and comfortably over your teeth, hugging their contours closely. This precise customization ensures that the aligners do not protrude or create unnecessary bulk in your mouth, minimizing any potential impact on your speech patterns once you’ve adapted to wearing them.

Appearance and Visibility

Clear, Discreet Aligners

One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its discreet appearance. The aligners are made of a clear, virtually invisible plastic material, making them far less noticeable than traditional metal braces. While they are not entirely invisible, Invisalign aligners are designed to blend seamlessly with your teeth, ensuring a natural look that does not significantly alter your appearance.

Confidence and Professionalism

Maintain Your Usual Appearance

For many adults and professionals, the ability to maintain their usual appearance during orthodontic treatment is a significant consideration. Invisalign aligners allow you to straighten your teeth without the visible metal wires and brackets that can detract from your professional image or confidence in social situations.

While there may be a brief adjustment period for your speech when you first start wearing Invisalign aligners, the impact on your overall appearance is minimal compared to traditional braces. With Invisalign, you can undergo orthodontic treatment while maintaining your natural speech patterns and professional, confident appearance.

Is Invisalign treatment suitable for teenagers or just adults?

Invisalign is a versatile orthodontic treatment that can be suitable for both teenagers and adults. While it was initially developed with adults in mind, the technology has evolved to accommodate the unique needs of younger patients as well. However, the suitability of Invisalign for teenagers may depend on several factors.

Suitability for Teenagers

Compliance and Responsibility

One of the key considerations for using Invisalign with teenagers is their ability to comply with the treatment requirements. Invisalign aligners must be worn for at least 20-22 hours per day and removed only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Teenagers need to demonstrate a level of responsibility and commitment to follow these guidelines consistently for the treatment to be successful.

Dental Development

Fully Erupted Permanent Teeth

Invisalign is generally recommended for teenagers who have most or all of their permanent teeth fully erupted. This is because the aligners are designed to move fully developed teeth into their desired positions. If significant tooth eruption is still occurring, traditional braces may be a more suitable option during this phase of dental development.

Treatment Complexity

Moderate to Complex Cases

While Invisalign can effectively treat a wide range of dental misalignments, more complex cases may be better addressed with traditional braces, particularly in younger patients. Severe crowding, significant bite issues, or the need for significant tooth movement may require the precise control and force application offered by metal braces.

Compliance Monitoring

Parental Supervision

For teenagers undergoing Invisalign treatment, parental supervision and support can be crucial in ensuring compliance with the prescribed wear schedule and aligner changes. Regular check-ups with the dentist or orthodontist are also essential to monitor progress and address any potential issues or concerns.

Customized Treatment Plans

Tailored Solutions

Ultimately, the suitability of Invisalign for teenagers will depend on their individual dental needs, level of maturity, and commitment to following the treatment plan. Many orthodontists now offer customized Invisalign treatment plans specifically designed for teenage patients, taking into account their unique needs and preferences.

If your teenager is a good candidate for Invisalign, it can offer a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces, allowing them to straighten their teeth without the aesthetic and dietary restrictions associated with metal appliances.

Are there any potential disadvantages or limitations of Invisalign treatment?

While Invisalign offers numerous advantages over traditional metal braces, it’s important to be aware of some potential disadvantages and limitations associated with this orthodontic treatment. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision and have realistic expectations throughout the process.

Treatment Complexity

Severe Misalignments

Invisalign may not be suitable for addressing severe or complex dental misalignments, such as significant overbites, underbites, or rotations. In these cases, traditional metal braces may be more effective in achieving the desired tooth movements and bite corrections. Your dentist or orthodontist will evaluate the severity of your case and determine if Invisalign can provide the desired results.

Compliance and Discipline

Consistent Aligner Wear

The success of Invisalign treatment relies heavily on patient compliance. To achieve optimal results, patients must wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day and follow the prescribed schedule for changing to the next set of aligners. Failure to comply with these guidelines can prolong the treatment duration or lead to suboptimal outcomes.

Oral Hygiene Challenges

Increased Effort Required

While Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating and brushing, maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment may require additional effort. Patients need to brush and floss thoroughly after each meal or snack to prevent food particles and debris from accumulating under the aligners, which can lead to tooth decay or gum issues.

Cost Considerations

Higher Upfront Expenses

Invisalign treatment tends to be more expensive than traditional metal braces, with costs varying based on the complexity of the case and the duration of treatment. The upfront expenses can be higher, and some dental insurance plans may not provide the same level of coverage as they do for metal braces.

Potential for Longer Treatment Times

Case Complexity and Compliance

In some cases, particularly with complex dental issues or poor patient compliance, Invisalign treatment may take longer to achieve the desired results compared to traditional braces. This can depend on factors such as the severity of the misalignment and the patient’s commitment to wearing the aligners as prescribed.

While Invisalign offers many advantages, it’s essential to discuss the potential limitations and disadvantages with your dentist or orthodontist. They can provide personalized guidance and help you determine if Invisalign is the most suitable option for your specific dental needs and lifestyle.

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