Many people have heard of Invisalign, but what is it and how can it benefit a smile and its general appearance? It’s a relatively new treatment, often touted as a great alternative to fixed braces. Both Invisalign and fixed braces are fitted with the same goal of straighter and uniform teeth. For those considering Invisalign in Bromley, we can advise on how this treatment may be of benefit in helping patients to achieve the goal of an improved smile; and on the suitability of this treatment for patients on an individual basis.

What is Invisalign?

This is a form of dental treatment that involves correcting crooked or uneven teeth to allow the patient to achieve a more uniform smile. Invisalign is based on the use of aligners which are made of soft transparent plastic. Because the aligners are clear, they are barely detectable when worn. This makes them a popular choice for those who wish to be discrete about the fact that they are having orthodontic treatment.

How do the aligners work?

If aligners are determined to be the most suitable form of treatment, we create clear plastic moulds that are perfectly shaped to fit the teeth of the individual patient. These are worn for most of the day, and should only be removed during meal times. The aligners create a gradual shift of the position of the teeth over time, which is facilitated by changing the mould every couple of weeks or so. In order for the treatment to be effective, the moulds must be worn for the majority of every 24-hour time period.

Do they hurt?

Because the position of the teeth is being altered, patients can expect to experience mild discomfort. This is especially true after the fitting of a new set of aligners. However, this usually resolves itself after a few days. Patients who have any concerns about this should talk to us here at Bromley Dental Practice, where we are happy to allay any worries and offer reassurance and advice on how to achieve the best possible outcome from treatment.

Is Invisalign suitable for everyone?

Orthodontic treatment using aligners is not necessarily the best option for every patient. There are a variety of factors that determine whether or not this is the most suitable treatment for the individual. The position of the teeth, the degree of unevenness, the condition of the teeth and gums, and the patient’s age are all used to help us decide on whether this solution or an alternative is best suited to the needs of the patient. Another important factor is whether or not the patient is committed to wearing the aligners for as much time as possible each day. If that is something that may be an issue, it might be worth exploring other alternatives.

How to get started in the process for a better smile

Here at Bromley Dental Practice, we offer all the support and information the patient might need to improve their smile. Make an appointment for a consultation with us to find out how Invisalign or any of our other treatments can help. We’ll be happy to explore all the options.