How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is an advanced cosmetic dental treatment to help straighten teeth. The name comes from the fact that they are clear (i.e. virtually invisible) teeth aligners that are custom-designed by an orthodontist. 

They are a popular choice for Perth adults who have put off straightening their teeth for years, as well as teenagers.

How does Invisalign differ from braces or retainers?

Invisalign is a non-fixed, teeth-straightening treatment that was developed in 1997 as an alternative to fixed treatments like braces and metal retainers. Besides their clear, unobtrusive design, another major benefit is that you can take your teeth aligners out to play sport, eat your meals, or to clean or floss your teeth. They can therefore be more hygienic than fixed, traditional treatments. 

However, you should keep them in at all other times to get the best results, including when you’re sleeping. This means that you should have them in for about 22 hours per day.  It’s important to understand that Invisalign is also a progressive treatment. You receive a new set of custom-made aligners every two weeks until your new teeth have moved into the correct position. 

The aligners are made of clear, medical-grade plastic that gradually shift your teeth to a new position. Each set of aligners builds on the work done by the previous set, and individual teeth can be targeted, unlike traditional braces that tend to move all your teeth at once. 

Invisalign treatment is usually less painful than wearing traditional metal braces. There are no metal brackets to be attached to your teeth or wires to be tightened when you have an Invisalign treatment to straighten your teeth instead.

How long does Invisalign take?

This depends on the original state of your teeth and the type of treatment that you choose. For example:

• Invisalign Express is a suitable treatment if you have minor teeth spacing or crowding issues with your six front teeth. You’ll start seeing results within three months.
• Invisalign Lite is the next step up and it can correct your six front teeth in six months.
• Invisalign Comprehensive is the most comprehensive treatment available and it’s suitable for major teeth straightening work. You can expect to see results in 12 to 18 months.

Can Invisalign close gaps?

Yes, the right Invisalign treatment can close gaps between teeth. If you have this extra space between your teeth, it’s not just a potential cosmetic issue that can affect your confidence. Food can also get stuck between your teeth and cause tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

Do you need retainers after Invisalign?

Yes, you’ll need to wear retainers after your Invisalign treatment for a period of time, just as you would if you had braces as your treatment instead. Retainers are necessary after any kind of teeth-straightening treatment. 

While you’re undergoing your treatment, your jawbone softens to allow your teeth to move. You’ll then usually need to wear retainers for nine to twelve months after your treatment. The retainers hold your teeth in place while new bone is deposited in your jaw to stabilise your teeth in their new position.

Is Invisalign suitable for children?

Invisalign First may be a proactive treatment option if your orthodontist has identified any potential future problems with your child’s teeth and your child is at least 8-10 years old. It can reduce the amount of treatment that would otherwise be necessary when your child is a teenager.

Is Invisalign covered by private health insurance?

Most private health insurance providers will provide cover for Invisalign treatment. However, it’s important to check with your specific provider about whether they cover it or not. If your provider does cover the treatment, it’s important to check the terms and conditions of the coverage to find out your eligibility and the potential rebate amount before you arrange your treatment.

What would I look like with straighter teeth?

You can use Invisalign’s SmileView simulation tool to see what you’d look like with straighter teeth. Just take a selfie on your phone and the technology will do the rest!

How we can help you

At Aria Dental, we provide the highest quality Invisalign treatments Perth has to offer. It’s important to have a consultation with an Invisalign-certified specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific teeth-straightening needs. We will x-ray your mouth and jaw before recommending the best option for you.

We also specialise in:

• dental implants,
• cosmetic dentistry, and
• high-end denture procedures.  

Contact us today to find out more about straightening your teeth or any other dental needs you have!