How does Invisalign work? (And how to know if it’s right for you)

As the name suggests, Invisalign treatment is virtually invisible – offering freedom and flexibility to suit your lifestyle. No wonder it’s such a popular teeth straightening choice for adults! But how does Invisalign work exactly? What dental issues can it fix and how long does it take? Let’s find out …

Invisalign: how does it work? ‍

Invisalign (AKA clear braces) works by applying gentle pressure to different parts of the teeth. Over time, misaligned teeth move into the correct position, leaving you with a beautifully straight smile. This happens through a series of aligners. 

These clear, customised plastic trays fit snugly over the teeth. Each new set of aligners targets different teeth. The great thing about Invisalign is that there are no metal brackets or wires. Plus, with Invisalign the teeth move in a much more controlled and less painful way than metal braces.

The biggest benefit for most? Invisalign aligners are removable. Yup. No need to cancel everything on your social calendar for the next 24 months! Take them out and tuck into that crunchy baguette. And, unlike with braces, flossing and brushing is a breeze.

Remember though, for Invisalign to work, the aligners must be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day.

Your step-by-step guide to Invisalign

Still a little sceptical? Let us walk you through the Invisalign procedure.

Step 1: Your consultation

Your dentist will examine teeth and gums and discuss your goals to see if Invisalign is right for you.

Step 2: Personalised plan

Forget messy, gag-worthy moulds, phew. 3D digital scans of your teeth and mouth are taken and input into a specialised software system. This maps out the precise movement needed to take your smile from “so-so” to straight.

The amazing thing about 3D scanning technology is that you can see a virtual image of how your new straight teeth will look. 

Step 3: Custom aligners

Invisalign aligners are created with comfort in mind from flexible thermoplastic. The wonder of digital software ensures a perfect fit for you. When you pick up your first set of aligners, your dentist will check they fit well and explain how to use them.

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Step 4: Check-ups to keep on track

You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks (or as recommended). At regular appointments, your dentist will make adjustments and track the progress of your teeth.

How long does Invisalign take to work?

The honest answer is: “It depends.” For simple cases, Invisalign treatment may be as short as a few months. On average, Invisalign takes around 12-18 months. In complex cases, it may take up to 24 months.

What dental issues can Invisalign fix?

A straighter smile. Check √

But guess what? Invisalign isn’t a one-trick pony. Here’s a look at the myriad teeth problems Invisalign can help solve.

Crooked teeth

Crooked teeth are common. In fact, most people have at least a couple of misaligned teeth. The cause of crooked teeth can vary, from genetics and habits (like thumb sucking) to early loss of baby teeth and injury.

Fixing crooked teeth isn’t just about aesthetics. Misaligned teeth can cause problems with chewing and digestion. They can also place excess wear and tear on surrounding teeth. Not to mention the very real risk of tooth decay, due to the challenge of cleaning crooked toothy pegs.

The good news is that Invisalign doesn’t only push teeth into the correct position. The clear aligners can rotate, tip and even pivot teeth. Perfect for fixing crooked teeth.

Crowded teeth 

Genetics, jaw size, just bad luck — sometimes teeth become bunched up (AKA overcrowded). As the teeth battle for space, they become twisted and misaligned. The problem is crowded teeth create perfect nooks and crannies for bacteria to become trapped.

In the same way that Invisalign can move crooked teeth into position, it can be effective on crowded teeth too. In case you’re wondering, yes — the severity of the crowding will play a role in whether Invisalign is the best fix. Your dentist will discuss this with you at your initial Invisalign consultation.

Gaps in teeth

Spaces between your teeth can leave you with a gappy smile. Whether the spaces are a result of tooth loss or genetics, the good news is that there’s a simple solution. 

Typically, each Invisalign retainer can close around 0.2mm of space between your teeth. This means that 3-6 months of Invisalign treatment should effectively close a 2mm gap, leaving you with a gorgeous new smile.

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Overbite

Everyone has a slight overbite. In some people it’s more pronounced than others. An overbite is where the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth. Left untreated, the lower teeth may rub against the gums behind your upper teeth. This can cause receding gums and increase your risk of decay.

So, how does Invisalign work for overbite? By placing pressure on the teeth, Invisalign aligners can correct an overbite in around 12-24 months. Depending on the complexity of the issue, attachments may be used. Known as Invisalign buttons, these are almost-invisible bumps that are placed onto certain teeth. They help guide the jaw and teeth back into the desired position.

Underbite

An underbite is basically the opposite of an overbite. The lower jaw protrudes forwards, causing the bottom teeth to overlap the top teeth. Like an overbite, an underbite can lead to issues such as jaw pain. It can also affect your ability to eat and speak normally. 

Open bite

If your upper and lower teeth don’t touch when you close your mouth, you have an open bite. It may be caused by habits like thumb sucking, using a dummy or regularly holding a pen or pencil in between your teeth.

While open bites are not always easy to correct, Invisalign can be effective — depending on the severity of your bite.

Crossbite

A crossbite is when you close your mouth and some of your upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth — rather than on the outside. Like other types of bite misalignment, a crossbite may lead to other problems. This includes jaw pain, tooth decay and changes to the facial bones.

Studies have shown that Invisalign can be effective in correcting crossbite. However, your dentist will advise you on whether braces may be a more suitable orthodontic treatment. 

Is Invisalign right for me?

You’ve explored Invisalign vs braces. You’ve clued up on the cost of Invisalign. Yet, you’re still wondering if Invisalign is right for you. Get all the answers you need, right here. Simply book an Invisalign consultation. We’ll assess your needs and eligibility and help you decide on your best teeth-straightening option. 

Ready for that first step towards a beautiful straight smile? Book your Invisalign consultation online.