Clear aligners (Invisalign, Angel Aligners and others)

What are aligners?

Clear aligners are the alternative to braces that can help you achieve a straighter smile. Aligners are a series of clear, custom-made trays that gradually move your teeth into their desired position. These aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable to wear and easy to remove. Simply take them out for special occasions and brush and floss as normal throughout your treatment. Aligners are the modern and hygienic way to straighten your teeth.

How does it work?

Using the latest in 3D imaging technology, your orthodontist can depict the complete series of movements your teeth need to go through to achieve a straighter smile.

A series of custom-made aligners are then produced, which you simply change yourself every two weeks to gradually move the teeth.

The length of treatment is dependent on the severity of each individual patient’s orthodontic issues. Treatment may vary from anywhere between six months to two years. The average treatment time is between 16 to 24 months.

What are the primary benefits of aligners?

• Aligners are nearly invisible – you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
• Aligners are removable – you can eat and drink what you want in treatment; you can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Aligners are comfortable – there are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation; no metal or wires also means you spend less time in the doctor’s chair getting adjustments.
• Aligners allow you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start – so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Starting treatment and appointments

After or during the initial consultation, your treating orthodontist or dentist will need to take x-rays, photos and moulds of your teeth. These records will be sent internationally (to the USA for Invisalign) to be used to manufacture your custom-made aligners. This process will take approximately 6 weeks (from the time the records are taken to the time treatment can begin).

Once in treatment, you will need to schedule regular appointments with your orthodontist which will usually occur every 6–8 weeks. It is necessary to check in with your treating orthodontist to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.

Most people experience temporary, minor discomfort at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This short-term effect is normal and is typically described as a feeling of pressure.

Like all orthodontic treatments, aligners may temporarily affect the speech of some people, and you may have a slight lisp for a day or two. However, as your tongue gets used to having aligners in your mouth, any lisp or minor speech impediment caused by the aligners should disappear.

Eating, drinking and cleaning

Are there restrictions on what I can eat while in treatment? No. Unlike traditional orthodontics, you can usually eat whatever you desire while in treatment because you remove your aligners to eat and drink. Thus, there is no need to restrict your consumption of any of your favourite foods and snacks, unless instructed otherwise by your orthodontist. Also, it is important that you brush your teeth after each meal and prior to reinserting your aligners to maintain proper hygiene.

Can I drink with aligners still on? You should remove your aligners to drink anything else except water. Leaving them on while drinking may stain them and the patient risks decay drinking fluids with sugar in them.

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing without toothpaste and rinsing them in lukewarm water. Your treating orthodontist can also inform you of cleaning products if required.

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing and flossing.

What happens after treatment to prevent my teeth from moving again?

This depends on the outcome of the treatment. Some patients might need a positioner or conventional retainer. Other patients might need a clear plastic retainer similar to the aligners.

Discuss these possibilities with your treating orthodontist. Every patient is different and outcomes vary.