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Braces vs Invisalign

Invisalign is a really nice option for when the required movement of the teeth isn’t too major and it’s more for an aesthetic result that the patient is seeking, Orthodontics involves more than just straightening teeth in many cases. When the treatment needs to be more comprehensive, an orthodontic specialist should become involved and braces might have to be placed. In some cases orthognathic surgery is required as there is a problem with the jaw structure, and merely moving or straightening teeth will be insufficient. In those complex cases, braces will also be required.

Invisalign is nice because it’s supposed to be invisible. That’s the whole premise. And patients like that for when they want it to be invisible, safe. It’s because their job or because of their family and friends. Invisalign is the most common brand of Clear Aligners, This form of less invasive Orthodontics is popular in patients who require minimal tooth movement to achieve an ideal smile. It is very popular in those about to get married or for those who are often presenting in a public forum, More recently it has become popular for school balls.

The Invisalign process differs significantly from braces as they are not fixed in the mouth like the typical ’tram track” fixed appliances of the 1960’s. The process begin with a consultation to determine suitability for th Invisalign program. Digital Scans are taken and these are sent for a ‘work up” this is then presented at another appointment, where the Patient can visualise the final outcome.
After all the consent forms and deposits are taken, Invisalign will construct the correct number of retainers to achieve the predicted outcome.

After fitting and instruction for use, reviews are conducted through the whole process and any concerbs during the process are attended to quickly.

Not all patients require upper and lower aligners. This will depend on the severity of the upper and lower crowding and most importantly, whether a satisfactory occlusion or bite can be achieved.

The number of aligners required to complete treatment vary on severity of crowding as well. In most cases approximately 36 aligners are required. At the end of the course, the final aligner becomes the retainer. This needs to worn with great compliance as this is what maintains the result for life. In those who may not be able to tolerate a removable retainer or who continually break or lose their retainer, a fixed retainer can be fitted, particularly to the lower front, or anterior teeth.

It is common for patients to seek tooth whitening usually with Zoom. As explained in another video, Zoom is the quickest and most effective means of whitening teeth. It’s a one visit operation or procedure that takes about 90 minutes. The end result of Invisalign and Zoom whitening is a beautiful smile that can be achieved without damaging teeth to the same extent as crowns and some Veneers. This has been very popular in all age and gender demographics, as the long term cost is minimal compared to cost of maintaining crowns, veneers and other cosmetic interventions. Always remember that teeth prepared for cosmetic reasons cannot be reversed, and ultimately Absolute Dental aims to help patient achieve a healthy mouth for life.

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