Invisalign is fast becoming one of the most popular means of teeth straightening treatments worldwide, not only due to its ease of use and ease of fitting into daily routines but also because of its strength, durability, and discreetness. Here at Blackburn Orthodontics, our patients are often blown away by the results they gain from Invisalign.
Why has Invisalign Become so Popular?
Invisalign works by applying controlled force to different teeth at different times within the treatment, so only specific teeth can move with each new set of aligners made for you. This means that it is a much less painful way of gaining a straighter smile in comparison to traditional metal braces.
A series of clear, comfortable aligners are custom-made from thin, flexible plastic, which works to straighten your teeth gradually, gently moving them into the desired position. Made using 3D computer-imaging technology which takes the current position of your teeth and your desired, final straightened position, it maps out a treatment plan which your orthodontist will ensure you stick to.
Every few weeks, new aligners are created to continue the desired movement until your teeth have made it to their final position.
Benefits of Invisalign
There are endless benefits to using Invisalign over other forms of braces, the main being:
- Discreteness – these clear aligners are barely visible, allowing you to smile confidently throughout your treatment without feeling self-conscious.
- Removability – you can remove the aligners for meals and special occasions, making it easier to maintain your regular eating habits and oral hygiene routines.
- Comfort – made from smooth, comfortable plastic, eliminating the irritation and discomfort often associated with metal wires and brackets.
- Versatility – they treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from minor spacing and crowding to more complex cases.
Tips for Gaining the Most out of Your Invisalign Treatment
Although easy to use, Invisalign also comes with the responsibility. Below are some tips from our expert orthodontists in Blackburn on how to get the most out of your treatment.
- Wear Your Aligners for the Recommended Time Daily.
To ensure the effectiveness of Invisalign, you must commit to wearing the aligner trays for a minimum of 22 hours each day, leaving 2 hours of non-wear for brushing and eating. Consistent and prolonged wear ensures fast and positive results and that you stick to the aligner changing schedule, usually every 2 weeks.
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene.
When wearing braces, it is more important than ever to ensure the upkeep of your oral hygiene. After eating it is important to brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners, as any food, plaque, or bacteria that is not brushed away, will be trapped against the teeth, increasing your chance of developing tooth decay. Daily flossing also becomes more important with Invisalign, for the same reasons.
- Take Care of Your Aligners.
Clean your aligners with cool water, antibacterial soap, or recommended cleaning products to ensure that they remain as transparent and discreet as possible. Once your aligners begin to stain, they will become more noticeable, and keeping them clean ensures that your breath stays fresh, and bacteria is kept to a minimum.
- Follow Dietary Guidelines.
It is vitally important that you never eat with your aligners in. Although strong, Invisalign aligners are not made to crunch and chew hard and sticky foods, as doing this will eventually lead to damage, staining, and major delays in your treatment plan. Drinking plenty of water throughout your treatment ensures food particles and bacteria are swept away, and increases your saliva production, which has the natural ability to wash away food particles and bacteria.
- Visit Your Orthodontist Often.
Visiting your orthodontist often for regular check-ups will help keep your treatment on schedule. Your orthodontist will monitor your progress and provide help and advice to ensure long-term success, including tips around aligner changes.
- Maintain Retainer Use.
After completing your Invisalign treatment, follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding retainer usage, as wearing your retainer helps maintain your results and prevents teeth from shifting back.
Gaining the Smile of Your Dreams with Your Specialist Orthodontist in Blackburn
At Blackburn Orthodontics, Invisalign is our most popular hidden brace system, and our team of expertly trained orthodontists is fully qualified to help and support you throughout your Invisalign journey, ensuring you achieve the results that make your smile brighter.
If you would like to contact us for a consultation around your eligibility for Invisalign, then you can do so for free at your specialist orthodontist in Blackburn today.
