Invisalign Fulham is more popular than ever as a means of getting a great smile. This article is a guide for those considering the treatment, explaining what it is and what it involves. In addition, questions that are often asked by prospective patients of Invisalign in Fulham are answered here to help you decide whether this treatment is the right choice.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the name of the modern alternative to traditional braces. Instead of being composed of wires that run across the teeth secured by metal brackets, these braces take the form of plastic trays that fit over the teeth. Their design is based on the same concept as retainers or mouth guards. The trays are also referred to as aligners, and they can be custom-made for each patient. They fit the teeth accurately and are designed to apply gentle pressure to each tooth to help them move into a better position. The aligners must be swapped every two weeks as treatment progresses until the desired result has been achieved.
Can people tell when the braces are being worn?
This is arguably the biggest advantage of having teeth straightened using clear aligners; they are almost completely invisible. The invisible nature of Invisalign aligners means that they are a great choice for teenagers who may already be self-conscious about their smiles and worried about what others may say about them altering their looks. This benefit is also sought after by people who did not have the advantage of having their teeth straightened in their youth and are now seeking to improve their smiles as adults.
How long does the treatment take?
The time required for Invisalign to work varies between patients, so it is worth discussing this with your dentist before starting treatment. However, it is usually much quicker than having teeth straightened using traditional braces, which can take years in some cases. Most patients wearing clear aligners get the results they want within a matter of months.
Do they hurt?
Invisible braces are one of the most comfortable ways to get a great smile, this is because they are tailor-made from a type of plastic that is soft and flexible. There may be some discomfort at the start of treatment and when the aligners are swapped for a new set. However, this is usually short-lived and can easily be resolved using over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Are there any health benefits of having straight teeth?
The first thing people usually think when they consider getting orthodontic treatment is that they will look and feel better. However, increased confidence is not the only benefit. Teeth that are not straight can be difficult to keep clean; this means that plaque can easily build up between the teeth and cause issues such as gum disease, which can affect the whole body as well as oral health.