Dental Articles - London

1. What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually move your teeth into planned positions. Unlike traditional braces with metal brackets and wires, clear aligners fit over your teeth and are designed to be discreet during everyday activities.

Treatment begins with an assessment of your teeth and bite. Your dentist can use digital 3D imaging to help plan tooth movements and determine whether Invisalign is an appropriate option for your smile. Depending on your treatment plan, you will typically move to a new set of aligners every 1 to 2 weeks.

Invisalign can be used for a range of alignment concerns, but not every orthodontic problem is suitable for clear aligners. A consultation at MEK Dental can help determine which treatment approach makes sense for you.

2. What Can Invisalign Correct?

Clear aligner treatment can address a variety of common tooth alignment and bite concerns. Depending on the individual case, Invisalign may be used to help improve:

• Crowded Teeth: When there is not enough room for teeth to sit comfortably in proper alignment.
• Spacing and Gaps: Spaces between teeth can sometimes be reduced by gradually moving the teeth closer together.
• Overbite: When the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than expected.
• Underbite: When the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth.
• Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when you bite together.
• Open Bite: When certain upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed.

The suitability of Invisalign depends on the severity and type of tooth movement required. During your consultation, your dentist can assess your bite and discuss whether clear aligners are appropriate for your needs.

3. What to Expect During Invisalign Treatment

4. Invisalign Before and After Results

These before-and-after images show examples of Invisalign treatment provided at MEK Dental. Every case is different, and treatment is planned according to the patient's starting tooth alignment, bite, treatment goals, and clinical needs.

Invisalign Case 1

Invisalign Case 2

5. Benefits of Invisalign

6. Tips for Getting the Most From Invisalign

1. Wear Your Aligners as Directed

   Invisalign treatment depends on consistent wear. Most patients are instructed to wear their aligners for approximately 20 to 22 hours each day.
2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

   Brush and floss regularly and clean your teeth before putting your aligners back in whenever possible.
3. Keep Your Aligners Clean

   Rinse your aligners and clean them as recommended by your dental provider. Avoid exposing them to hot water, which can affect their shape.
4. Follow Your Aligner Schedule

   Change to each new set according to the schedule provided by your dentist and contact the office if an aligner no longer fits as expected.
5. Attend Your Checkups

   Regular appointments allow your dentist to monitor your progress and determine whether any adjustments or refinements are needed.
6. Wear Your Retainer After Treatment

   Teeth can naturally shift after orthodontic treatment. Wearing your retainer as recommended helps maintain your new smile.

7. Invisalign in London

If you are considering Invisalign in London, the first step is an assessment of your teeth and bite. At MEK Dental, your dentist can discuss your concerns, examine your current alignment, and explain whether clear aligner treatment is suitable for your smile.

Invisalign treatment is not simply about making teeth look straighter. Your treatment plan should consider how your teeth fit together, how they function, and how the planned tooth movements can be achieved safely and predictably.

During your consultation, you can also ask about treatment time, the number of aligners you may need, retainers, and the expected cost of your Invisalign treatment.