Invisalign®

What is Invisalign® ?

Invisalign® , clear braces, is a proven technology designed to give you the smile you’ve always wanted, without the pain and anxiety associated with metal braces.

To help you get a more beautiful smile, Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. You wear a set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush and floss. As you replace each set of aligners with the next in the series, your teeth will gradually move until they reach the position your doctor has prescribed for you.

What are aligners made of? What do aligners look like?

Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. Aligners are clear and look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as “contact lenses for teeth.”

How does Invisalign® effectively move teeth?

Like brackets and arch wires are to braces, Invisalign aligners move teeth through appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.

Is Invisalign® for me?

Invisalign can be used to treat the vast majority of common problems for adults and teens. Whether your smile needs minor improvements or more extensive adjustments, Invisalign can certainly help. It’s successful in treating overly crowded or widely spaced teeth. It can also relieve more complex issues, including overbites, underbites and even crossbites. But the only way to know for sure that Invisalign is for you or not, is to visit our Invisalign-certified dentist.

Angel Aligners:  Clear Aligners for Orthodontic Relapse

Have your teeth shifted back after orthodontic treatment? It’s a common concern known as orthodontic relapse, and it can be frustrating. But don’t worry! Clear aligners offer a comfortable and discreet solution to help you regain your ideal smile. They’re not just for initial straightening; they’re also excellent for correcting minor to moderate tooth movement after previous treatment. 

Orthodontic relapse occurs when teeth gradually move back towards their original positions after braces or other orthodontic work. This can happen for several reasons, including genetics, not wearing retainers as instructed, or inconsistent aftercare. Maintaining a straight smile often involves consistent retention, especially for those with a genetic predisposition for shifting teeth. 

Retention plays a vital role in stabilising your teeth after orthodontic treatment. Retainers, whether fixed or removable, are key to preventing relapse, but remembering to wear them consistently can sometimes be a challenge.

How Clear Aligners Can Help 

Clear aligners offer several advantages for correcting orthodontic relapse: 

• Discreet: They’re virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without drawing attention. 
• Comfortable: Made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, they’re gentle on your gums and cheeks. 
• Convenient: They’re easily removable for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
• Precise: Each aligner is custom-made using advanced digital technology for effective and comfortable tooth movement. 
• Efficient: Many cases of minor to moderate relapse can be corrected within 6 to months (treatment time can vary depending on individual needs). 

Here’s what you can expect when using clear aligners for relapse correction: 

1. Initial Consultation: Our experienced dentists will carefully examine your teeth and bite to determine the extent of the relapse and if clear aligners are the right solution for you. 
2. Digital Impressions: We use advanced 3D scanning to create precise digital models of your teeth, which are essential for accurate treatment planning.
3. Personalised Treatment Plan: Based on your digital impressions, we’ll develop a customised treatment plan outlining the necessary tooth movements and the number of aligners you’ll need. 
4. Aligner Fabrication: A series of custom-made clear aligners will be created based on your personalized plan. Each aligner gently guides your teeth into the desired position. 
5. Wearing Your Aligners: You’ll wear each set of aligners for approximately 1-2 weeks before progressing to the next set, gradually shifting your teeth into their correct alignment. 
6. Retainers: After completing your aligner treatment, you’ll receive retainers to maintain your newly straightened smile. This is a crucial step for long-term success.

To ensure the best possible results with clear aligners for relapse, consider these important factors: 

• Early Detection: Early detection of relapse is key to quicker correction. Regular dental checkups can help identify any shifting teeth early on. 
• Consistent Wear: Following the prescribed wearing schedule and attending all follow-up appointments is essential for effective treatment. 
• Advanced Technology: Utilising the latest technology ensures precise treatment planning and aligner fabrication. At Citra Dental, we use Angel Aligners. 

Clear aligners provide a versatile and effective solution for addressing orthodontic relapse. Their discreetness, comfort, and convenience make them a popular choice for those seeking a gentle way to perfect their smiles. By understanding the causes of relapse and following a comprehensive treatment plan, you can achieve a beautiful, lasting smile. 

If you’re concerned about orthodontic relapse and think clear aligners might be right for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team at Citra Dental. We’ll be happy to assess your individual needs and discuss your treatment options.