People who are considering Invisalign from the orthodontist in Hampshire will want to know how it all works before deciding to go ahead. At Winchester Orthodontics, we give our patients details about all the potential ways that they can improve their smile so that they can make an informed decision. Clear braces are an increasingly popular option because they are so subtle that the wearer can keep the fact that they are having their teeth corrected under wraps.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is sometimes mistakenly spelt Invisaline and refers to the brand name for invisible braces. They are made up of clear trays of super soft plastic, also known as aligners. These trays are worn over the teeth to gently move them into a better position over time. The aligners are changed every few weeks in order to aid this movement.
Can people tell when someone is wearing clear braces?
This is the main advantage of this type of treatment. Completely different to the more traditional braces that involve wires being placed across the front of the teeth, Invisalign is imperceptible to others. The aligners are completely transparent, which means that the teeth are still completely visible.
Are transparent braces suitable for everyone?
In many cases, these braces are a great option for correcting the position of the teeth so that they look more uniform and pleasing to the eye. However, it is worth noting that every patient is different, and what works for one may not be the right choice for another. We assess people on an individual basis in order to determine what will suit them best in terms of correcting their teeth.
Does the patient have to change their diet?
As your orthodontist in Hampshire will tell you, aligners are not permanent fixtures in the mouth. They are designed to be removed when the patient is having a meal. This means that there is no need to change how they eat in any way: they can continue to enjoy all their favourite foods as normal. It is important to ensure that the teeth are brushed thoroughly after each meal before replacing the aligners. This means that there is less risk of bits of food becoming trapped between the teeth and the aligners, which can cause staining and decay.
How long do invisible braces take to work?
The length of time required for treatment varies between patients, and we can advise on an individual basis when getting started. However, many people find that they have achieved the desired results within a matter of months. This is a relatively short time period for treatment when compared with other kinds of braces.
Does the patient need to be a young person?
It used to be that braces were only used as a treatment for teenagers and young people. Thankfully, that has changed. People of all ages and life stages can now opt for orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is an especially popular option with adults who may feel self-conscious about others knowing they are having their teeth straightened. Discreet, comfortable and offering great results, clear braces make good sense for many of our patients.