Invisalign – the invisible brace that’s transforming smiles
If your teeth are uneven or crooked, you may think there is no way out other than traditional braces. But traditional metal braces with wires or brackets may leave some patients feeling self-conscious or awkward. Now there’s a different option for teeth straightening that avoids this. Invisalign allows you to align your teeth for a confident, new smile without anyone knowing you’re undergoing treatment. The brace is made from SmartTrack material which is fitted to your exact, individual gum line. This ensures that you achieve the best result possible from your Invisalign treatment as the brace fits your mouth perfectly.
You can be assured of our experience and high-quality service at The Orthodontic Studio. One of our Specialist Orthodontists, Anshu Sood, is a certified user of the Invisalign system. She can provide a first-hand account to every patient interested in Invisalign.
The Treatment Process
The first step is to assess the patient’s suitability for Invisalign treatment. At The Orthodontic Studio, we’re highly experienced in this. We will talk openly and honestly with you regarding your treatment plan and will take x-rays and a dental impression of your teeth. Using the data we gather from your teeth, we can map out your treatment plan.
The next step is making your invisible brace, or “aligners”. Your Invisalign aligners are custom-made and are sent to your orthodontist. Since Invisalign braces are removable, this is reflected in your treatment plan and is a perk of the treatment. Traditional braces are limiting and fixed, Invisalign can come out whenever. You will be given a series of aligners to wear every day and to change at home. On average, you will change every 1-2 weeks, with the treatment plan moving your teeth to achieve the desired goal.
Thirdly, say hello to your new smile! You will visit your orthodontist every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. They will also give you new Invisalign aligners as you move through your treatment plan.
After you’ve finished your treatment, retainers are required to maintain the results. Vivera retainers are made with the same state-of-the-art technology as Invisalign aligners, meaning they will fit your mouth perfectly with a comfortable fit.
What can Invisalign fix?
Invisalign is made to move all sorts of smiles. Extremely adaptable, it works to fix many different mild to complicated issues with our teeth and mouth.
Underbite
An underbite is a condition in which the lower teeth and jaw protrude in front of the upper jaw. So, when you close your mouth, your upper teeth sit behind your lower ones. For many people, this is just a problem with your lower jaw being too far forward. An underbite can make chewing difficult, can cause speech impediments and can cause your teeth to wear down due to grinding.
Overbite
An overbite is the opposite of an underbite. This is where your top teeth overlap your bottom ones. Most people have a minor overbite and it’s nothing to worry about, but for some, their overbite can be rather prominent. Doctors measure overbites in percentages. 5-25% is totally normal. Anything over 25% is when it becomes a problem, due to the increase in teeth grinding and pain in your jaw.
Crossbite
A crossbite is a combination of the two previously mentioned conditions. This is when your top and bottom teeth overlap independently. A crossbite can make your teeth chip and your gum can start to recede. These problems can lead to painful gums or even bone loss, so it is exceptionally important to visit your dentist if you think you may have a crossbite.
Gap teeth
If you have particularly prominent gaps between your teeth, this is known as having gap teeth. Gaps within your teeth can create place for food to get stuck, which even after brushing can make your gums tender and lead to gum disease.
Open bite
An open bite is when your top and bottom teeth do not meet, leaving a gap exposing the inside of your mouth between your teeth. Although an open bite does not pose any health risks, it can affect your lifestyle. Biting into foods such as apples becomes difficult, due to the gap weakening your bite. For some people, they do not like the look of their open bite so seek Invisalign invisible braces for cosmetic purposes.
Overcrowding
Some of us simply have too many teeth for our mouths. This means that our teeth do not fit correctly and are crooked as to make room for the other teeth. Your teeth can bunch up, twist, overlap and get pushed to the back or front of your mouth. Crowded teeth can be very difficult to brush as it is hard to reach all of a tooth that is partially covered by another. This leads to a build-up of plaque, tartar and harmful bacteria. Also, overcrowded teeth can become further twisted overtime.
Generally straighter teeth
You may not have a precise problem with your teeth, you simply want to straighten them. And that’s perfectly okay! With a beautiful smile, you will feel more confident and this will improve your quality of life.