At Gentle Mouth Care in Harrow, we understand that choosing the right orthodontic treatment can be overwhelming. That's why we've compiled this list of frequently asked questions about Invisalign® aligners. From how they work to what you can eat while wearing them, we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your dental health. Explore our FAQs and get answers to your questions, ensuring your journey to a straighter smile is as smooth as possible.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth and achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Using advanced 3D computer-imaging technology, Invisalign depicts your complete treatment plan based on your Dentist’s prescription, from the initial position of your teeth to the final desired position.

Then a series of clear aligners are custom-made for your teeth – and your teeth only – to move them little by little. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the series, gradually moving towards the projected final position.

Your Invisalign treatment time will be determined by our Invisalign Dentist, based on your specific needs.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible. No one may even notice that you’re wearing these virtually invisible aligners, making Invisalign a seamless fit with your lifestyle and day-to-day interactions with others.

Invisalign aligners are removable giving you the flexibility to eat and drink what you want during treatment by simply removing the aligners. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would for fresh breath and to maintain good oral hygiene.

Unlike traditional fixed braces, there are no metal brackets or wires. This means that in most cases less time is spent in your Invisalign Provider’s practice for adjustments.

And finally, Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you even begin treatment so you can see how your teeth are expected to look when your treatment is complete.

Is this a new way to straighten teeth?

Dentists or orthodontists have, in the past, successfully used removable appliances for years. But with the application of Invisalign’s 3D computer technology, the Invisalign System can be used to treat a wide range of patients who wants straighter teeth. The unique ClinCheck® software allows patients to see their treatment plan from beginning to end even before the start of treatment.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign aligners move teeth with an appropriate placement of controlled movement on the teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign not only controls the amount of movement per aligner, but also the timing of the movement. So at each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, as per the Invisalign treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system that moves teeth into the desired prescribed position.

How discreet are Invisalign aligners?

Very discreet, whilst Invisalign aligners aren’t completely invisible they are very inconspicuous. In most cases you’ll be able to have conversation with family and friend without them even noticing you are wearing aligners.

How often must the aligners be worn?

You need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day during treatment, but you can take them out for eating, drinking, brushing and contact sports.

Will the aligners affect speech?

The vast majority of patients report no effect on speech. However, as with traditional orthodontic appliances, there is an initial adjustment period associated with having something new in the mouth. You may have a slight lisp at first, but you’ll quickly get used to your aligners and should be talking clearly and confidently within a few days.

How often must i see my Invisalign provider once i have started treatment?

Appointment intervals are generally the same as with traditional braces but can be much quicker with less time spent in the dentists chair during appointments as no adjustments need to be made to wires/brackets.

Patients typically visit us every 4 to 6 weeks to ensure the treatment is progressing as planned, and to receive their next few sets of Invisalign aligners, but we see many patients that fly in and out of London for business and we tailor their appointment intervals to suit their busy schedules.

Since having my braces removed, my teeth have shifted. Can Invisalign correct this?

A number of Invisalign patients have undergone a previous treatment involving braces at some point in their past, often during their youth. Invisalign can usually correct the shifting that occurs after braces commonly referred to as relapse.

What is the minimum age of a patient that a doctor can treat with Invisalign?

There is no minimum age of patient that can benefit from Invisalign. Usually all we require is the majority of adult teeth to be in place. Many of our patients are being treated with special aligners for Invisalign Teens. Come see if Invisalign Teen may be the right treatment option for your child.