Achieve a Healthy, Confident Smile with Invisalign in Southern River

Invisalign aligners effectively straighten teeth using a series of custom-made, clear trays. Each tray is slightly different, following the treatment plan tailored for your teeth. As you wear each set of aligners, they apply controlled pressure on specific teeth. This pressure slowly shifts your teeth into the desired position, according to the plan devised by your dentist at Harrisdale Dental Centre.

You will get a new set of aligners every few weeks, continuing this process. Each aligner set is engineered to move your teeth incrementally, maintaining comfort and efficiency throughout your treatment. This method is a discreet and modern alternative to traditional braces, offering an aesthetic and non-invasive treatment to achieve a straighter smile.

No, Invisalign aligner treatment can manage many types of teeth misalignment, but it is not suitable for severe cases. It is particularly effective for addressing the following common, less severe dental alignment issues:

• Crowded teeth:

  Occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all teeth to fit. Invisalign aligners apply gentle pressure to move your natural teeth into the proper position, creating the needed spacing and alignment.

• Gapped teeth:

  This misalignment is characterised by noticeable spaces between one or more teeth. Invisalign aligners methodically close these spaces by guiding the teeth towards improved alignment.

• Crossbite:

  In cases of crossbite, some upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth rather than outside. Invisalign moves these teeth to their intended positions, improving both bite and jaw alignment.

• Underbite:

  Characterised by lower teeth that extend beyond the upper teeth, usually due to a misaligned jaw. Invisalign can help shift the lower teeth back to slightly align with the upper teeth.

• Overbite:
  
  This happens when the upper teeth overlap significantly with the lower teeth. Invisalign aligners can methodically move the upper teeth back towards a more desirable position, reducing the overbite.

While Invisalign offers a convenient and discreet treatment option for many, it is important to note that it may not be effective for severe misalignments. For patients near Southern River with significant orthodontic issues, we can offer alternative dental treatments that may be more appropriate.

Here are the key benefits of using Invisalign to straighten teeth:

• Aesthetically pleasing:

  Invisalign aligners are clear, making them nearly invisible when worn. This discretion appeals to adults and teenagers who may become self-conscious with traditional braces.

• Comfort:

  The smooth plastic of Invisalign aligners contrasts with the sharp edges of metal braces, providing greater comfort.

• Removability:

  Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing. This flexibility supports better oral hygiene and dietary choices.

• Predictability:

  Using advanced 3D imaging dental technology, Invisalign allows patients and experienced dentists to preview the expected outcomes before starting treatment.

• Fewer dental visits:
  
  Invisalign often requires fewer dental appointments, as adjustments are not needed for wires or brackets.

Invisalign aligners offer efficiency and subtlety with less interference in daily activities. For patients near Southern River looking for a teeth-straightening method that integrates smoothly into their lifestyle, our Invisalign treatment is an effective and discreet choice.

No, the Invisalign treatment process is not painful. However, patients may experience mild discomfort when they first wear a new set of aligners. This sensation is due to the aligners applying pressure to shift the teeth gradually. The discomfort normally subsides after a few days as the teeth adjust to the new aligners.

It’s important to wear the aligners as directed to minimise discomfort and maintain effective treatment. Regular appointments help manage any discomfort and allow for adjustments to the customised treatment plan and Invisalign maintenance if necessary. This will promote a smoother, more comfortable experience.

You should change your Invisalign aligners every two weeks. This frequent change helps maintain steady progress in aligning your healthy teeth towards their targeted positions. Each new set is slightly adjusted from the last to continue the movement process effectively. Following this schedule is vital for achieving the desired results within the planned treatment period.

No, you should not eat or drink with your Invisalign aligners on. You must take out the aligners before consuming any food or beverages except for water. This prevents damage to the aligners and keeps the food particles from getting trapped between the aligners and your teeth, which could lead to dental concerns.

It is also important to clean your teeth and the aligners before wearing them again after meals to maintain dental hygiene. Proper dental care and handling of your aligners contribute to the effectiveness of your treatment and the health of your teeth.

Yes, Invisalign aligners can temporarily affect your speech. Most people notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing their aligners. This adjustment period is usually short, as most patients adapt quickly to the presence of aligners. Practising speaking with the aligners can help speed up this adjustment process. Regular use allows your tongue to get used to the aligners, smoothing out speech irregularities over time.

Maintaining the cleanliness of your Invisalign aligners is important for oral health and treatment effectiveness. Here are the essential steps to Invisalign maintenance:

1. Rinse each aligner with cold water:

   Do this each time you take out the aligners, especially before putting them back on after eating or drinking.

2. Brush aligners gently:

   Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear liquid soap to avoid scratching and clouding the aligners.

3. Soak daily using Invisalign cleaning crystals or similar products:

   Dissolve the cleaning crystals in water and soak the aligners for 15-20 minutes.

4. Rinse aligners thoroughly after soaking:

   Rinse off all cleaning products to remove any lingering residue.

5. Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting aligners:
   
   This prevents trapping food particles and bacteria between your teeth and the aligners.

Regular cleaning practices help maintain the aligners and support better oral hygiene. By following this Invisalign maintenance routine, you’ll keep your aligners fresh and clear throughout your treatment.

Yes, there might be health fund cover for Invisalign, but only if your plan includes orthodontic cover. Health funds might assist with part of the cost of Invisalign when it is deemed medically necessary, but the policy determines the extent of cover provided. This usually applies if there are functional issues that require complex adjustments, such as addressing bite problems or severe misalignments that affect eating, speaking, or oral health.

For example, a misaligned bite that causes jaw pain or excessively worn teeth would be considered a medical necessity. Cosmetic purposes alone, like mild misalignments of teeth, might not be eligible. It’s recommended that you check with your health fund to understand what dental services qualify as medically necessary under your plan.