How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made removable aligners with unique SmartForce technology that gradually moves your teeth to the ideal position. These aligners are barely noticeable when they are worn, making them a discreet option for adults. They are appropriate for overcrowded or widely spaced teeth, as well as to treat cross-, over- and underbites.

The aligners are constructed for each individual patient using highly specialised software, called Clincheck. Dr Berera uses the software program to write your personal ‘prescription’, which you will be able to see on the Clincheck simulation.

The number of aligners you need will depend on the initial position of your teeth. Treatment may last from as little as four months to up to 24 months, depending on how crooked your teeth are. As with any prescription, it is important that you wear each of your aligners for the required duration as advised to achieve full movement.

The aligners will place light constant pressure on your teeth, to slowly move them to the correct position. The aligners will be replaced every two weeks to continue this gentle realignment until you have reached your final mould and desired smile goals.

As the aligners are removable, you can maintain your oral hygiene and gum health with ease, keeping your teeth clean and stain-free over this period.

Why Choose Invisalign?

For adults, the thought of metal braces can turn you off straightening your teeth. For the right person, Invisalign can achieve a straight smile without anyone knowing you are wearing your aligners.

Invisalign aligners are often chosen over braces as they are:

• Removable

• Good for oral hygiene

• Comfortable to wear

• Easy to use

• Discreet

• Individualised for every patient.

The procedure

As with all orthodontic procedures, an initial examination will be required to determine your oral health and check your bite.

Dr Berera will take some initial records including X-rays, study models and 3D scans with which she will diagnose your facial proportions, your mouth and your bite.

Invisalign may need to be a part of your overall cosmetic dental treatment – to align your teeth before porcelain veneers or whitening or perhaps in conjunction with gum treatments. Dr Berera will consult with you to understand your cosmetic dental requirements and discuss all of the treatment options that are available. She will take the time to explain the details of your Invisalign treatment, what it involves, how it works, and possible risks.

Once you have decided to proceed with Invisalign, your records will be sent to Invisalign’s head office in California. There, a customised treatment plan will be made for you, called a “clincheck”. Dr Berera will review this plan and modify it as required to ensure your teeth align into your desired smile. Once Dr Berera has approved your Invisalign treatment plan, the aligners are fabricated and sent back to Dr Berera’s dental clinic.

Your first aligners are checked and fitted to you as prescribed on your customised Clincheck. You are given all of the instructions and your first few aligners. Dr Berera will review your teeth every 4-6 weeks to check that your aligners are fitting well and moving your teeth as prescribed. The length of your treatment depends on the complexity of your case and your bite.

All Invisalign treatment is customised, and changes from person to person. For this reason, it is very important to ensure that your bite will respond well to Invisalign treatment and that you will be able to wear them as required. Dr Berera will explain your case in detail to ensure you understand the treatment and how compliance will affect the results. With her expertise and experience with orthodontics and Invisalign, Dr Berera will ensure that you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment before commencing.

The Potential Risks

1. Oral hygiene complications

• Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: If you skip brushing teeth or flossing in between meals and drinks before putting the aligners back in, bacteria will get trapped under the aligners and in turn causes tooth decay. Also make sure you remove your aligners before consuming anything that isn’t water. It doesn’t take long for the bacteria to progress into cavities and gum irritation, which can develop further into infection. 

• Mouth Sores: If aligners are not fitted correctly, they can rub against gums and cheeks causing irritation, redness, and pain. 

2. Functional Issues

• Moderate pain: While aligners are removable for eating, some discomfort is normal when eating, and particularly eating harder foods straight after removing the aligners can be uncomfortable.

• Affected speech: Some people experience temporary difficulties forming certain sounds. 

• TMJ Disorders: Pre-existing or new jaw joint issues, known as TMJ disorders, can cause pain and stiffness in the jaw, making it harder to open the mouth. 

3. Ineffective treatment

• Unsatisfactory tracking: If teeth aren't moving according to the treatment plan and Invisalign check ups aren’t correctly implemented it can lead to delayed treatment or an inadequate result. 

• Relapse: Not wearing retainers after the treatment is complete can cause teeth to shift back to their original position. 

4. Other Potential Risks 

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have a mild allergic reaction to the aligner material.

• Root Resorption: In severe cases, overly aggressive tooth movement can lead to the shortening of tooth roots. 

5. How to Minimize Risks

• Follow Instructions: Wear your aligners for the recommended 22+ hours per day and change them as directed by your dentist. 

• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly and clean your aligners to prevent bacteria buildup. 

• Rinse After Eating/Drinking: Always rinse your mouth after consuming sugary or acidic drinks and foods, and clean your aligners at the earliest opportunity. 

• Disclose Dental Problems: Inform your dentist about any existing dental issues, like TMJ disorders or gum disease, before starting treatment. 

• Wear Retainers: Consistently wear your retainers after treatment to prevent relapse and maintain your results

As every patient is unique and every mouth is individual, the option to have Invisalign will depend from patient to patient. Although Invisalign can provide results for many patients, there are some cases in which other treatment options will work better. Ensure you book in for a consultation before deciding to proceed with Invisalign treatment, and your Dentist can evaluate whether Invisalign is the correct Orthodontic treatment for you.