Invisalign clear aligners are undoubtedly the most popular orthodontic treatment option in the UK. According to the manufacturers of Invisalign, over 18 million people have benefited from this treatment option to enjoy their dream smiles. If you are also thinking of getting Invisalign to get your teeth straightened, you might be wondering about how it works and what are the Invisalign timelines involved. 

The good news is that you have come to the right place! This blog explains everything you need to know about Invisalign treatment, from how it works to how each treatment stage progresses. So, don’t forget to read till the end to get answers to all your questions about Invisalign treatment. 

What Is Invisalign, And How Do Invisalign Braces Work?

According to the British Orthodontic Society, Invisalign, also called clear aligners, refers to an orthodontic system which involves wearing removable transparent, tray-like aligners over one’s teeth to realign them. Unlike fixed braces that are bonded to the teeth, Invisalign aligners are removable and you can remove them for eating and oral hygiene maintenance. 

What Is The Process Involved In Getting Invisalign Braces?

The process of getting clear aligners is straightforward. During your first appointment, your dentist will perform a detailed clinical examination of your teeth. They will also look at the study models and x-ray images of your teeth to determine the underlying cause. Based on this, they will prepare a treatment plan to straighten your teeth and maximise your facial aesthetics. 

Next, your dentist will make digital impressions of your teeth and use special software to design multiple sets of Invisalign trays for you. These trays will be fabricated using 3D printing technology. Your dentist will provide you with multiple sets of numbered aligners to be worn successively. Each aligner set is designed to gradually move your teeth into optimal alignment. 

Invisalign Or Braces, Which One Needs More Time And Care?

When it comes to comparison of the treatment time with metal braces or clear aligners, it depends on various factors. Some of these are the extent of the underlying issue, the dentist’s expertise and skill, and the patient’s compliance with the dentist’s instructions. 

As regards care, fixed braces require more care as it is more challenging to ensure optimal teeth cleaning with them. On the other hand, Invisalign invisible braces are removable. So, you can simply take them off whenever you want to brush or floss. 

Do You Really Have To Wear Invisalign For 22 Hours?

Yes, Invisalign clear aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours a day for optimal results. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, wearing your aligners for at least 22 hours daily is essential to ensure continued tooth movement. Your aligners will move your teeth a fraction of a millimetre at a time. So, if you don’t wear them for the prescribed amount of time, your treatment may be delayed or even reversed. 

How Effective Are Invisalign Braces Compared To Wired Ones?

Invisalign clear aligners are an excellent option for treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as tooth crowding or spacing. However, the effectiveness of Invisalign treatment is highly dependent on patient compliance. So, one has to adhere to their dentist’s instructions to achieve the desired results. 

How Strong Is Invisalign? Does It Last?

Invisalign aligners are made of a transparent, flexible polymer material. This means that these aligners will not break easily. While it may take up to 18 months for your treatment to complete, you are not required to wear each aligner set for that long. Instead, you will be asked to switch to a new aligner set after every two weeks. So, considering that you will have to wear each aligner for about 14 days, they are sufficiently strong and durable. 

How Many Months Do Clear Aligners Take To Correct The Teeth?

The time required by clear aligners to straighten misaligned teeth depends on various factors, such as the severity of the underlying issue, the patient’s age, and the dentist’s skill and experience. Typically, mild to moderate orthodontic issues can be treated within 6 – 8 months, while more complex issues may take up to 18 months or longer. 

When Should I Start Seeing Invisalign’s Results?

Invisalign aligners start moving your teeth immediately after you wear them. However, it may take 1 – 2 months before you start observing the results. This is because the aligners will move your teeth gradually. So, you won’t be able to see immediate results. 

Does Invisalign Work Permanently?

After the completion of your Invisalign clear aligner treatment, your dentist will give you removable or fixed retainers. The purpose of these retainers is to consolidate your treatment and prevent your teeth from going back to their previous position. This means that the results of Invisalign treatment can be reversed if orthodontic retainers are not worn as prescribed. 

Are you looking for the best dental practice in Rotherham for Invisalign treatment? Look no more! Precision Dental Care is your best option. We take pride in having the best team of dentists and state-of-the-art equipment to make sure that you get the best dental treatment in town. Whether you need Invisalign for your kids or veneers for your chipped teeth, we are there to take care of all your dental needs. So, what are you waiting for? Join our patient family today and take your first step towards a lasting and healthy smile.