Invisalign - Frequent Asked Questions

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® also called Invisible Orthodontics is the invisible way to straighten teeth without braces. The system uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires.

Does It really work?

Yes. In both clinical research and in orthodontic and dental practices nationwide, It has been proven effective at straightening teeth.

How does it work?

The system uses a new technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made "Aligners" are produced. Each "Aligner" moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

What are the primary benefits?

There are four primary benefits:

• Is nearly invisible - you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
• Is removable - you can eat and drink what you want in treatment; you can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Is comfortable - there are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation; no metal or wires also means you spend less time in the doctor's chair getting adjustments.
  
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  Invisalign® allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start - so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

What are aligners made of?

Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.

What do aligners look like?

Aligners are nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as "contact lenses for teeth."

How does Invisalign® aligners effectively move teeth?

Like brackets and arch wires, the aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that It not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.

How much does it cost?

As with other types of orthodontic treatment, the cost is heavily dependent on the complexity of a patient's case.

While in Treatment

Will the treatment be painful?

Most people experience temporary, minor discomfort for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This is normal and is typically described as a feeling of pressure. It is a sign that it is working - sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination. This discomfort typically goes away a couple of days after you insert the new Aligner in the series.

Will wearing the Aligners affect my speech?

Like all orthodontic treatments, Aligners may temporarily affect the speech of some people, and you may have a slight lisp for a day or two. However, as your tongue gets used to having Aligners in your mouth, any lisp or minor speech impediment caused by the Aligners should disappear.

Are there restrictions on what I can eat while in treatment?

No. Unlike traditional wires & brackets, you can eat whatever you desire while in treatment because you remove your Aligners to eat and drink. Thus, there is no need to restrict your consumption of any of your favorite foods and snacks, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Also, it is important that you brush your teeth after each meal and prior to re-inserting your Aligners to maintain proper hygiene.

Will smoking stain the aligners?

We discourage smoking while wearing Aligners because it is possible for the Aligners to become stained.

Can I chew gum while wearing aligners?

No, gum will stick to the Aligners. We recommend removing your Aligners for all meals and snacks.

What's the best way to clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your Aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing and flossing.

Can patients use aligners for bleaching teeth while active tooth movement is occurring?

While we are aware that some patients are using Aligners for bleaching, Align has not examined the compatibility of currently available bleaching products with our Aligners, nor have we demonstrated efficacy in clinical studies. Align recommends that you consult your orthodontist or dentist for more information on whitening teeth.

How often must I see the orthodontist/dentist?

Your orthodontist/dentist will schedule regular appointments - usually about once every six weeks. This is the only way your doctor can be sure that the treatment is progressing as planned.

What happens after treatment to prevent my teeth from moving again?

This depends on the outcome of the treatment. Some patients might need a positioner, or conventional retainer. Other patients might need a clear plastic retainer similar to the Aligners. Discuss these possibilities with your treating orthodontist or dentist. Every patient is different and outcomes vary.

Case Selection

What is the minimum age of a patient that a doctor can treat?

Dentists can use it to treat a vast majority of patients with fully-erupted molars.

I am currently wearing braces - can I make the switch to Invisible Orthodontics?

Dentists are treating patients with some form of combination of braces and Invisible orthodontics. We recommend that you consult your orthodontist or dentist to determine the best treatment for you.

Does the procedure work on overbites (over-jets) and how?

An experienced doctor can use Invisalign® to treat a vast majority of adults & adolescents.

Have there been cases where a patient was treated for a case that is a little more severe than moderate crowding?

Yes, there are clinical studies, written by doctors citing the treatment of complex cases using Invisalign®.

Are there certain dental conditions that automatically exclude you from being an eligible patient?

Your dentist or orthodontist can best determine which treatment is best for you.

Are crowns a factor in the treatment?

No, crowns are not a factor in the treatment. However, sometimes small composites called attachments are bonded onto teeth to help achieve certain movements. In these cases, the location of crowns must be carefully evaluated by an Invisalign orthodontist or dentist. To find out if crowns will adversely impact your orthodontic treatment, just ask us to evaluate this.

Dr. Kligman has been a Platinum Elite Provider for Invisalign since 2008, and recently in 2010-2011 he became New South Wales No. 1 provider, and Australia's No. 2 provider for his extensive experience and the most number of cases submitted with an amazing success rate.

Visit A Better Smile Dental Centre page to learn more about the Orthodontics and Invisalign® services we provide in our four locations in Sydney.

Contact us for a free consultation and remember we offer zero interest payment plans.