They may look very different to fixed braces, but they move teeth using the same biomechanics.
Your aligners will gently apply pressure to your teeth to move them towards your goal. You’ll see your smile starting to transform in a matter of weeks.
How does Invisalign straighten teeth?
During your Invisalign treatment, you’ll wear a sequence of custom-made aligners. You’ll change to a new set of aligners every 1–2 weeks. The number of aligners you’ll need to wear throughout your treatment will depend on how complicated your case is.
Straightforward cases can take less than 12 months from start to finish.
Bone remodelling
As your aligners put pressure on your teeth, they stimulate bone remodelling. Below the surface of your gumline, the soft tissues and bone that surround your teeth will remodel, allowing your teeth to move into their new position.
Bone modelling is a gradual process, and it’s essential to move teeth slowly. Orthodontic treatment can’t be rushed, and it should always be left to the experts.
Trying to move teeth too quickly, or worse, taking matters into your own hands could damage your teeth and possibly lead to tooth loss.
Retention
Once your teeth are straight, and you’re ready to stop wearing your Invisalign aligners, you’ll need to start wearing retainers. Your retainers will hold your teeth in their new position and prevent orthodontic relapse.
It will take approximately 12 months for your results to stabilise, so retainers are crucial during this time.
There’s always a risk that your teeth could move in the future, so you’ll need to wear fixed or removable retainers for life (or for as long as you want your teeth to stay straight).
We include retainers and one year of aftercare so we can supervise your retention and give you the best possible start.
The Invisalign difference
There are many different aligner systems to choose from, but we only use Invisalign. It provides fantastic precision and predictable results. Thanks to a few special features, it can rival the capabilities of fixed braces in most circumstances.
SmartTrack material
Years of research and innovation have gone into every Invisalign aligner. They’re made using a patented SmartTrack material, making them more comfortable than your average aligner and easier to take in and out.
SmartTrack material has been specially engineered to apply gentle, constant forces and improved control. It’s the result of eight years of research and development.
SmartForce attachments
Aligners alone have their limitations, but combine them with attachments and we can treat a wide range of concerns.
Invisalign attachments are tiny tooth-coloured dots of composite that we attach to specific teeth during your treatment.
Your aligners use them as handles to achieve more complex movements. They’re very discreet and easy to attach and remove.
Arrange your free consultation
If you’re ready to find out more about Invisalign treatment, we’d be delighted to meet you for a no-obligation consultation in Clonmel or Newbridge. Specialist orthodontist Dr. Jackie Bracken is an Invisalign Diamond Provider with years of experience. We offer a wide choice of braces, so you can explore all your options and find the one that’s right for you.
