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Teeth straightening
Invisalign straightens teeth by using a series of clear aligners that are worn 24/7 except at meal times and during toothbrushing.
Each aligner is designed to apply specific forces to the teeth to move them to the right position in a gradual manner. Each aligner is to be worn for a minimum of 1 week. The number of aligners used will vary from case to case. The aligners are custom-made for each patient. A scan or impression of the patien's teeth must be obtained at the start of treatment for the aligners to be generated.
To help with tooth movement, invisalign treatment usually also requires the use of attachments and IPR (Interproximal reduction)
What are attachments?
In order to move the teeth efficiently and in the right direction, attachments made of resin material are often necessary and are bonded to the teeth at the start of treatment. These are small blobs of tooth-coloured material that are placed at specific sites on the teeth to engage the aligners and allow the desired tooth movement. Attachments are not visually noticeable when placed on the teeth. However, it can take some time for patients to get used to them. They can get stained if a diet high in staining foods is consumed or oral hygiene is poor.
What is IPR (Interproximal reduction)?
IPR is the removal of a very thin layer of enamel on the sides of particular teeth during Invisalign treatment. The thickness of enamel to be removed is usually no more than 0.5mm. This is carried out by the dentist using fine polishing strips. There is no harm caused to the tooth and there is no noticeable change in the appearance of the tooth.
IPR is necessary to provide additional space into which teeth can be moved to obtain the right alignment when there is crowding.
Invisalign is effective in the majority of cases where teeth straightening is desired. However, an assessment by a trained dentist is required to determine this.
Invisalign can treat many common alignment concerns such as mild crowding, gaps between teeth and some bite issues. The most reliable way to determine suitability is through a consultation with our dentist at the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote.
At the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, our dentist will ensure that your mouth is free of decay, gum disease and other pathology prior to starting Invisalign. If this is not the case, other dental treatment will be needed to achieve a healthy oral condition first.
Once the dentition is restored to health, an Invisalign assessment is carried out. This involves photographic records and taking a digital scan of the teeth.
These records will then be analysed to determine how the misalignment of the teeth (maloccusion) can be corrected.
The degree of correction necessary to achieve the desired result must also be taken in consideration. If the starting maloccusion is very severe, Invisalign aligners alone might not be sufficient. Other devices might be needed to correct the bite (such as elastics or a palatal expansion device). If this is the case, an orthodontist (specialist) referral is the preferred course of action.
In cases where there is also severe jaw misalignment, jaw surgery might be needed to correct the problem and an oral surgeon needs to be involved as well.
Patients with extensive decay, untreated gum disease, many missing teeth and severe jaw misalignment must consult a dentist before commencing any aligner treatment.
The length of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the alignment issue. Some minor cases may take around six months, while more moderate cases may require twelve to eighteen months. At the Melbourne Smile Clinic, our dentist will provide an estimated timeline once your teeth have been assessed and a treatment plan has been created. Aligners are usually changed every one to two weeks to continue guiding the teeth into position. Consistently wearing the aligners for the recommended number of hours each day is essential to keep treatment progressing as planned.
Most patients describe Invisalign as comfortable, although some pressure may be felt when starting a new aligner. This pressure is a sign that the aligner is gently moving the teeth into their new position. The sensation usually settles within a few days as the mouth adapts. Because there are no brackets or wires, Invisalign often causes less irritation to the cheeks and lips compared with traditional braces. If any discomfort occurs our dentist at the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, can recommend simple ways to manage it while treatment continues.
For Invisalign to be effective the aligners should generally be worn for about twenty two hours each day. They should only be removed when eating, drinking beverages other than water and when brushing or flossing your teeth. Consistent wear ensures the aligners apply the correct pressure needed to gradually move your teeth. If the aligners are not worn regularly treatment may take longer than expected. At the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, our dentist will provide clear instructions about wearing and caring for the aligners throughout the treatment process.
Yes, Invisalign is commonly used by adults who wish to improve the alignment of their teeth. Many adult patients choose Invisalign because the clear aligners are discreet and can fit easily into daily routines. Teeth can shift over time due to ageing, previous orthodontic treatment or natural movement. Invisalign can often help correct mild to moderate alignment concerns for adult patients. A consultation with our dentist at the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, will help determine whether this treatment option is appropriate for your individual oral health and smile goals.
The cost of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the number of aligners required. Minor alignment concerns may require fewer aligners, while more involved cases may take longer and involve additional stages. During your consultation at the Melbourne Smile Clinic, we will provide a personalised treatment estimate and explain the factors that influence cost. Many patients appreciate having a clear understanding of fees before starting treatment so they can plan their dental care with confidence.
At the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, our dentist Dr Yew, has undertaken additional training courses in Invisalign treatment and will treat adult patients requiring mild to moderate corrections.
At the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, we prioritise optimum outcome for our patients. If a case is deemed more complex, Dr Yew may decide to refer you to an specialist orthodontist.
For children who are still growing, we will refer to a specialist orthodontist.
In some cases, moving the teeth in a better position is not enough to get a completely satisfactory result. The teeth might be misshapen, worn down, broken or discoloured as well.
At the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, our dentist will look at these issues as well and offer treatment recommendations such as teeth whitening, new fillings or veneers and crowns if they are deemed necessary. If teeth are missing, replacement options such as implants can be discussed. If there is decay or gum disease, these can be diagnosed by our dentist and treated before Invisalign is started. The patient can therefore obtain a complete picture of all required treatment from the start.
Seeing an orthodontist means that only the teeth straightening aspect will be addressed. The patient will need to see a general dentist separately to have a complete oral assessment and obtain advice about any other issues and recommended treatment.
Retainers are usually recommended after completing Invisalign treatment. Once teeth have moved into their new position they need time to stabilise within the surrounding bone and tissues. Wearing retainers helps maintain the alignment achieved during treatment and reduces the risk of teeth gradually shifting back over time. Retainers should be worn full time initially followed by night time use. At the Melbourne Smile Clinic in Northcote, regular dental check ups are also recommended to help monitor your results and support long term oral health.