If you are considering straightening your teeth without fixed braces, clear aligners are one option to discuss with an Invisalign dentist. This article explains what clear aligner treatment involves, what it can and cannot do, and what to ask when choosing a practitioner.
How clear aligner treatment works
Invisalign is a clear aligner system. Instead of fixed brackets and wires, it uses a series of removable transparent aligners, custom-made from digital scans, which move teeth gradually into a planned position.
Because the aligners are clear, they are less noticeable than metal appliances, which is one reason some adults prefer them. They are not invisible, and small attachments bonded to the teeth during treatment can be seen at close range.
What clear aligners can offer
- Comfort: The aligners are smooth plastic with no brackets or wires. Most people experience pressure, tenderness or tooth sensitivity for a few days after changing to a new aligner, and some experience temporary irritation of the lips or tongue or a temporary effect on speech.
- Convenience: The aligners are removable, so there are fewer restrictions on food and drink. Teeth should be cleaned before the aligners are put back in.
- Range of use: Clear aligners can be used for a range of orthodontic problems including crowding, spacing and some bite corrections. They are not suitable for every case, and some tooth movements are more predictably achieved with fixed appliances.
What treatment requires from you
Clear aligners generally need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day. Treatment depends on this. Where aligners are not worn as directed, teeth may not move as planned, treatment can take longer, and a revised plan or a change of approach may be needed.
The Treatment Process
- Initial consultation. Your dentist examines your teeth and gums and discusses what you would like to achieve. This appointment establishes whether clear aligners are appropriate for your case. You should receive an explanation of the risks and a written quote.
- Treatment plan. A plan is prepared using 3D imaging and a sequence of aligners is manufactured. Any digital simulation you are shown is a projection based on the plan, not a guaranteed result.
- Wearing the aligners. Each aligner is generally worn for one to two weeks before moving to the next.
- Review appointments. You attend regular reviews so progress can be checked and the plan adjusted if teeth are not tracking as expected.
- Retainers are provided at the end of treatment and generally need to be worn long term, because teeth tend to move back towards their original positions.
Clear aligner treatment at North Sydney Dentistry
Our dentists provide clear aligner treatment as part of general dental practice. All are registered with the Dental Board of Australia, and you can check any practitioner’s registration and qualifications on the Ahpra public register.
Invisalign provider status
North Sydney Dentistry holds Invisalign Platinum Elite Provider status. This is a tier assigned by Align Technology, the manufacturer, based on the number of cases a practice treats. It is a commercial classification rather than an award, an accreditation, or an assessment of clinical quality by any regulator or professional body.
Our approach
Treatment planning is individual. We assess your teeth and gums, explain which options are appropriate for your case and why, set out the risks, and provide a written quote before treatment starts. Where clear aligners are not the right approach for your case, we will tell you that and discuss the alternatives.
Risks and Considerations
Orthodontic treatment carries risks. These can include discomfort and tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, decalcification or decay where oral hygiene is not maintained around attachments, shortening of tooth roots, gum recession, temporary changes to speech, and relapse if retainers are not worn as directed. Aligners can be lost or damaged and replacements are charged. Treatment may take longer than initially estimated.
Results vary between individuals. No outcome can be guaranteed.
Arranging an assessment
If you would like to know whether clear aligner treatment is suitable for you, contact us to arrange a consultation. You will be examined, given an explanation of the options and their risks, and provided with a written quote before any treatment begins.