Not everyone is too keen on the idea of having metal braces permanently fixed on to their teeth in order to straighten them. Some people may find them unsightly, while others may be searching for a more subtle alternative due to professional work or age. Fortunately, Invisalign Leicester can offer you the same resolution as braces, without the need of having unappealing metal wires permanently fixed onto your teeth for months on end.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are transparent, removable braces made of plastic which are designed to be ‘invisible’ as the name suggests, when placed on your teeth. They function like traditional braces by applying constant pressure to the teeth causing them to slowly move from their original position and align together. Unlike metal braces, when you get Invisalign, a number of aligners are made customised to suit your teeth and how the dentist envisages your teeth to progress, and you are expected to change to a new aligner after a set number of weeks until your teeth are finally straight.
Why should I choose Invisalign?
There are endless benefits to using Invisalign, which is why there has been such a dramatic rise in its popularity in recent years. Some have been outlined below.
Transparent
Invisalign aligners are made of clear medical-grade plastic meaning they are practically invisible when they are worn unlike traditional braces. This makes Invisalign a perfect option for adults who may have delayed getting braces in their teenage years or those who want a more subtle look for work purposes.
Removable
Invisalign aligners are removable which makes it easier for you to eat food and drink without getting food stuck between your teeth.
Oral hygiene
As Invisalign aligners are removable, it is easier to maintain good oral hygiene as you are able to brush and floss your teeth properly with nothing getting in the way. This can avoid staining and the build up of plaque due to unsatisfactory brushing.
Confidence
Having uneven or crowded teeth can often make you feel self-conscious, but with the help of aligners, your teeth can become more cohesive, giving you a better smile and bringing back your confidence.
What imperfections does Invisalign help treat?
Invisalign works to solve a number of dental issues, these include:
- crooked or uneven teeth
- gaps between the teeth
- overbites
- underbites
- crossbites
- crowded teeth
If you feel as though you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned issues, consult your dentist so that they can check whether Invisalign would be a suitable solution for you and if they think you could benefit from it. Furthermore, the sooner you begin your treatment, the sooner you can begin to see results and the treatment can come to an end.
What does process of getting Invisalign aligners entail?
The process of getting Invisalign is fairly straightforward in comparison to having metal braces fitted or any other teeth straightening dental procedure.
When getting Invisalign aligners, your dentist will firstly carry out a thorough physical examination of your teeth to ensure your teeth will actually benefit from the Invisalign treatment. They will also take a range of 3D scans of your mouth and teeth so that they can construct a set of custom-made aligners by visualising how your dental alignment will progress over the course of the treatment. These aligners are to be changed every two to eight weeks which is the average time it will take for there to be a shift in the position of your teeth. Once the aligners are produced and arrive, your dentist will check to see if the first set of aligners fit comfortably and securely onto your natural teeth. If so, you will be advised to wear the aligners for twenty-two hours of the day and to only remove them when eating, drinking, or brushing and flossing your teeth.
How soon can I expect to see results?
If worn in the correct manner, results of wearing Invisalign aligners can usually be felt within the first three months and can be seen within six months of beginning the treatment. The length of the treatment is usually dependent on each individual case, with the average time being twelve months. However, on many occasions the treatment has been completed in a shorter time range. Although the effects of Invisalign are considered to be permanent, it is important to note that the results must be maintained. This can only be achieved by wearing retainers every night after the treatment is finished to ensure your teeth remain straight and do not begin to shift out of place again.