Straightening your teeth doesn’t have to mean metal brackets and wires anymore. That’s the magic of Invisalign. At Chic Dental, our state-of-the-art Invisalign in Melbourne delivers stunning smile transformations.
No metals. No wires. Just clear, custom-fitted aligners for a natural-looking smile. Experience the Invisalign difference at Chic Dental!
Invisalign treatment involves a series of custom-made, removable aligners that are designed to progressively shift teeth into their desired positions. Here’s what you can expect during the Invisalign procedure at Chic Dental.
The first step in the Invisalign journey is a thorough consultation and assessment of your oral health. Your dentist will evaluate the degree of misalignment and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you. This assessment might include X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth.
Using advanced 3D imaging technology, your dentist will map out a precise treatment plan. This plan will detail the expected movement of your teeth throughout the treatment and provide an estimate of the treatment duration.
Based on the treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners are created. Each set of aligners will be worn for approximately one to two weeks before switching to the next set in the series.
Once the treatment is complete, you’ll likely be given a retainer to maintain your new tooth position. Retainers are usually worn at night to prevent the teeth from moving back to their original positions.
The final result? A naturally straight smile you’ll be proud to show off—achieved with minimal disruption to your life!
For those wrestling with crooked teeth, the prospect of wearing conventional metal braces can be off-putting. Modern dental services have advanced tremendously, and patients now have access to discreet and comfortable orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign.
Invisalign treatment is a modern orthodontic solution that offers an alternative to traditional braces. It leverages clear aligners, sometimes referred to as invisible braces, to correct misaligned teeth effectively.
Invisalign treatment involves a series of custom-made, removable aligners that are designed to progressively shift teeth into their desired positions. Here's a step-by-step look at how this innovative treatment works at a typical dental practice:
The first step in the Invisalign journey is a thorough consultation and assessment of your oral health. Your dentist will evaluate the degree of misalignment and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you. This assessment might include X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth.
Using advanced 3D imaging technology, your dentist will map out a precise treatment plan. This plan will detail the expected movement of your teeth throughout the treatment and provide an estimate of the treatment duration.
Based on the treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners are created. Each set of aligners will be worn for approximately one to two weeks before switching to the next set in the series.
Once the treatment is complete, you'll likely be given a retainer to maintain your new tooth position. Retainers are usually worn at night to prevent the teeth from moving back to their original positions.
Invisalign Full: Invisalign Full, often referred to as just 'Invisalign,' is the most comprehensive treatment option and is typically used for treating complex orthodontic issues. It includes unlimited aligners throughout the treatment and typically takes between 12 to 18 months.
Invisalign Teen: Designed specifically for teenagers, Invisalign Teen considers the unique needs of growing individuals. It includes extra features like eruption tabs to accommodate the growth of molars and replacement aligners in case of loss or damage.
Invisalign Lite: For less complex cases or minor corrections, Invisalign Lite is an ideal option. This type usually involves using 14 aligners or less and typically completes in around six months.
Invisalign Express: For those with minor cosmetic concerns such as slight crowding or small gaps, Invisalign Express can be the perfect fit. It's the quickest option, often completed in less than six months and uses a limited number of aligners.
Invisalign i7: The newest addition to the Invisalign family, the i7, is designed to treat minor orthodontic issues in as little as three months. It uses only seven aligners, making it the most efficient option for straightforward cases.
Invisalign effectively addresses a wide range of dental issues:
While Invisalign can handle most orthodontic cases, very severe misalignments may require traditional braces or combined approaches.
Invisalign offers numerous advantages over traditional braces:
These benefits make Invisalign particularly appealing to adults and teens who want effective orthodontic treatment without the social and lifestyle impacts of traditional braces.
Age Factor in Invisalign Treatment
While there is no upper age limit for Invisalign, it's generally not recommended for younger children whose teeth and jaws are still developing. Most dentists agree that Invisalign is suitable for older teenagers and adults who can responsibly handle and care for removable aligners.
Type and Severity of Dental Issues
Invisalign can correct many orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. However, the severity of these issues plays a significant role in determining suitability.
Patient Commitment and Lifestyle
A successful Invisalign treatment requires a significant commitment from the patient.
Additionally, one's lifestyle can also influence the suitability of Invisalign. For example, those who frequently speak in public or work in jobs where appearance matters may prefer Invisalign due to its discreet nature.
Oral Health Status
Good overall oral health is vital for anyone considering Invisalign. Those with untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues must address these problems before starting the treatment. Your dentist will carry out a thorough oral examination to make sure your mouth is healthy and ready for orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign is suitable for most teens and adults with fully developed permanent teeth. There's no upper age limit—many of our patients at Chic Dental are adults in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond who are finally addressing long-standing alignment issues.
Most patients experience mild pressure or discomfort for 1-3 days after switching to a new aligner set, which indicates the treatment is working. This sensation is typically described as pressure rather than sharp pain and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
The cost of Invisalign treatment can vary significantly based on several factors. The complexity of your case, the duration of your treatment, and the specific details of your individual plan all play a role in determining the final cost.
Generally, more complex cases that require a longer treatment period may be more expensive. Certain dental insurance plans may offer partial coverage for Invisalign, similar to their coverage for traditional braces.
Most Invisalign treatments at Chic Dental are completed within 12-18 months, though timing varies based on case complexity and patient compliance. Simple cases using Invisalign Express may finish in as little as 3-6 months, while more complex issues might take up to 24 months.
The success of Invisalign treatment doesn't only depend on the professional handling your case but also on how you take care of your aligners. Here's how to keep your Invisalign aligners clean, clear, and working effectively.
Proper Handling and Storage
The delicate nature of Invisalign aligners requires gentle handling and secure storage.
Cleanliness Is Key
Maintaining the cleanliness of your aligners is essential not only for your oral health but also for keeping them invisible and odour-free.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Since aligners sit directly on your teeth, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent decay or other dental problems.
Avoiding Staining and Damage
While the aligners are designed to be durable, certain habits can discolour or damage them.
Follow the Invisalign Schedule
Finally, it's crucial to follow the Invisalign treatment schedule provided by your dentist. Make sure you switch to a new set of aligners as directed to keep your treatment on track.
One of the great advantages of Invisalign over traditional braces is the flexibility it offers when it comes to eating. However, there are still some considerations to keep in mind to maintain the quality of your aligners and ensure successful treatment.
Freedom in Food Choices
Invisalign aligners are removable, which means you have the freedom to eat whatever you like without worrying about food getting stuck in wires or brackets, unlike traditional braces. Whether you crave crunchy apples, chewy caramels, or corn on the cob, you can indulge in your favourite foods as long as you remember to remove your aligners first.
Stay Hydrated with Water
Drinking plenty of water while wearing your aligners can help keep your mouth fresh, your aligners clean, and your body hydrated. Water is the only drink you can consume without removing your aligners. It doesn't stain or cause any damage to your aligners.
Avoid Certain Beverages
While you can enjoy most foods with Invisalign, the same doesn't apply to all beverages. Drinks like coffee, tea, wine, and soda can stain your aligners, making them more visible. Always remove your aligners before drinking these beverages.
Mindful Snacking
Frequent snacking requires you to remove your aligners more often and can reduce the hours you wear your aligners each day. Consider sticking to three main meals daily or combining your snacks with your meals.
Oral Hygiene Post Meals
After every meal or snack, it's important to clean your teeth before reinserting your aligners. Food particles left behind can lead to plaque build-up, cavities, or gum disease. If you're unable to brush your teeth immediately after eating, rinse your mouth with water to help remove any leftover food particles.
Yes, it's possible to switch from traditional metal braces to Invisalign. In fact, many people make the switch for various reasons, including discomfort from braces, appearance preferences, or treatment time frames. The transition will need to be managed by a dentist who can oversee the process and ensure that it goes smoothly. There may be a period of adjustment as your mouth gets used to the new treatment method, but with patience and regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, it can be a straightforward process.
When properly prescribed and monitored by qualified dental professionals like those at Chic Dental, Invisalign is very safe and unlikely to damage teeth. The gentle, controlled forces are designed to move teeth without causing harm.
Yes, you should definitely wear your Invisalign aligners while sleeping. The aligners are designed to be worn 20-22 hours per day, and nighttime wear is essential for successful treatment. The continuous gentle pressure during sleep contributes significantly to tooth movement.
Yes, wearing retainers after completing Invisalign treatment is essential for maintaining your results long-term. Your retention protocol typically begins with wearing retainers full-time for a short period, then transitioning to nighttime wear.
Invisalign chewies are small, cylindrical cushions made of a spongy material that help seat your aligners properly. Biting down on a chewie for a few minutes per day helps ensure your aligners fit snugly against your teeth, maximising their effectiveness.
