Invisible aligners frequently asked questions

We get a lot of questions about Invisible Aligners, but we noticed a lot of them tend to be the same. So if you’re curious about something, check below to see if we have an answer for you!

Invisible Aligners are a great cosmetic dentistry treatment for anyone with cosmetic concerns. They work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them into their desired positions. The process starts with a consultation with one of our Treatment Advisors, who will help you to determine whether Invisible Aligners are the right treatment for you.

If you’re deemed a good candidate for invisible aligners, we’ll take physical impressions of your teeth. These are used to create a 3D model of your teeth, which forms the basis for your custom-made aligners. A series of aligners are then made, each one designed to move your teeth incrementally.

Remember, a consultation with one of our skilled Treatment Advisors is necessary to determine individual suitability for invisible aligners. They will be able to assess your alignment needs, discuss your goals, and determine the best course of treatment for you.

Invisible aligners are a versatile solution that can be suitable for a wide range of individuals seeking to improve their smile. However, there are some restrictions regarding who can and cannot have this treatment. You should be over the age of 12, have an already good standard of oral hygiene, have no habits which would affect treatment (including smoking and nail biting and chewing) and be ready to commit to a treatment which requires you to wear the aligners for up to 22 hours per day.

Invisible aligners can effectively address a wide range of cosmetic dental issues. They are primarily designed to correct misalignments in the teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Here are some of the most common cosmetic issues that Invisible Aligners can fix:

  • Crowded Teeth: If your teeth are too close together, Invisible Aligners can gradually move them apart, improving the look of your smile and also making oral hygiene easier
  • Spacing Issues: Gaps between your teeth can be closed using Invisible Aligners. This not only improves your smile aesthetically, but also helps to prevent food particles from getting lodged between your teeth
  • Overbite: An overbite, where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively, can be corrected using Invisible Aligners
  • Underbite: If your lower teeth protrude in front of your upper teeth, which is known as an underbite, Invisible Aligners can be used to adjust their positions
  • Open Bite: Invisible aligners can close an open bite, where the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed
  • Crossbite: A crossbite, where some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed, can also be corrected with Invisible Aligners

Remember, while Invisible Aligners can address many cosmetic issues, the suitability and effectiveness of treatment depend on the individual case. It’s always best to consult with a dental professional to discuss your specific needs and to determine the best course of treatment for you.

While ‘invisible’ is in the name, Invisible Aligners are not completely invisible. They are, however, very discreet. The clear aligners are less noticeable than traditional metal braces and are a popular choice for adults and teens who want a less conspicuous orthodontic treatment that can still be worn for at least the majority of the day.

We would always recommend you wear your Invisible Aligners for 20-22 hours each day. They should be removed only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and for brushing and flossing your teeth.

If you do want to wear your aligners for fewer hours in the day, your treatment plan could be impacted and the target completion date will be changed accordingly. 

Please speak to your dentist if you have questions specific to your treatment plan and the timeframes.

No, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food and drink can damage or stain the aligners. Plus, chewing while wearing your aligners can cause them to crack or break.

Typically, you will switch to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks. Your dentist will give you a specific plan based on your individual needs when you are given your aligners.

Invisible aligners can cause some discomfort, particularly when you first start wearing them or when you switch to a new set. This discomfort is usually mild and goes away after a few days as your mouth adjusts to the aligners.

You should clean your aligners every time you remove them. Rinse them under lukewarm (not hot) water, and clean them with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. There are also specialised cleaning solutions and tablets that can be used.

Yes, most people with crowns or veneers can wear Invisible Aligners. However, it depends on the location and condition of your crowns or veneers. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your specific situation and give you the best advice before your treatment plan commences.

Once you’ve completed your treatment with Invisible Aligners, you’ll likely need to wear a retainer at night to keep your teeth in their new positions. This will help maintain the results of your treatment.

Invisible aligner treatments at Smiles and Smiles typically cost between £3,000 to £5,000. The price can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the specific treatment plan. 

Smiles and Smiles also works with Chrysalis Finance to provide patients with the option to spread the cost of their treatment, making it more affordable. For more information about Fees & Finance, please click here

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