Invisalign

The Invisalign story

Here at Weybridge Orthodontics, we understand that every patient has different needs when it comes to having their teeth straightened, therefore we offer lots of choice when it comes to treatment.  Invisalign in Weybridge is chosen by many of our patients because it comes with so many benefits.  But what is it and how did this orthodontic option come into being? invisalign-story

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign in Weybridge is an alternative to traditional braces.  Rather than wires and brackets, these braces come in the form of trays of clear plastic.  The trays, also known as aligners, are worn over the teeth.  They are changed every few weeks for several months until the teeth have moved into a better position.

Orthodontic history

Most people who were treated with braces in the years before 2005 are likely to have worn the traditional metal ones.  There was not much in the way of alternative options.  If a person had crooked or protruding teeth in this time, they had to either put up with their smile as it was or make the decision to wear metal braces.

The idea for Invisalign

Invisalign in Weybridge has its origins back in 1997.  Stanford undergraduate Zia Chishti was in the process of completing his orthodontic treatment and had his metal braces removed.  He was given a retainer after the dentist had finished the removal.  The retainer was plastic and was positioned over the teeth and held in place using metal brackets, as was usual at that time.

The shape and fit of the retainer inspired Chishti, and he started to come up with the idea of braces modelled on this.  He wanted to create something that was more comfortable than the metal braces and that could be removed for cleaning.  He also wanted the patient to be able to keep the teeth and gums thoroughly clean during treatment.  Chishti was also keen to develop a set of braces that could be take out when eating, making meals a much easier process during orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign development

Chishti teamed up with some of his fellow students in order to get his idea off the ground.  He founded Align Technology in 1997 alongside Kelsey Wirth, Apostolos Lerios and Brian Freyburger.  They gained investors on the strength of the concept and worked with Marc Levoy using the technology available to them at Stanford University to make a model of the braces.

A year of honing and working on the technology later, the team got the go ahead from the United States Food and Drug Administration to start selling their product. To begin with, orthodontists were not too sure about recommending clear braces to their patients.  They wanted to stick with what they knew, and they were unsure about the team behind Align Technology as they had not trained as dentists or orthodontists.

Gain in popularity

The orthodontists who chose to give Invisalign a try realised that their patients liked the braces and that they found them much more comfortable and easier to wear than other options.  They then started to become more popular.  By 2012, there were over two million people getting their teeth straightened using Invisalign.  Today, the treatment continues to be the best choice for many.

Invisalign step by step

Here at Weybridge Orthodontics, we offer the best and most effective treatments for teeth straightening.  We work hard to ensure that all our patients enjoy superior care and results that they are pleased with.  One popular choice for correcting teeth that are misaligned is Invisalign in Weybridge.  This is a step-by-step guide for anyone who is considering this treatment. invisalign-weybridge

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign in Weybridge is a modern alternative to the usual wires and brackets that are often associated with getting braces.  It is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses trays called aligners.  Aligners are made from super soft plastic that is completely clear.  They are slotted over the teeth a bit like a mouthguard.

Getting started

Any patient who is considering Invisalign in Weybridge should make an initial appointment with us.  We can examine the position of the teeth and their condition in order to determine if clear braces are the best option.

If the patient decides to go ahead with this treatment, then we take impressions of the teeth.  This allows us to get an exact record of where all the teeth sit within the mouth.  This record is then used to create aligners that match the teeth of the individual patient exactly.  The tailor-made approach means that the braces are both very comfortable and effective.

Getting the braces

The patient makes an appointment with us to get their aligners fitted.  We show them how to position them within the mouth and how to remove them.  This is also an opportunity for the patient to ask questions about their treatment and find out about any special precautions that should be taken.

Every two weeks, a new set of braces is issued to the patient.  Each set is slightly different and helps to gently move the teeth into the best possible position.  There may be a little discomfort when changing aligners.  However, this can easily be alleviated using over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.

How to look after oral health during treatment

Thankfully, it is relatively easy to take care of the teeth and gums as well as the braces during treatment.  The aligners are designed to be taken out for mealtimes, and this helps to minimise any potential issues regarding eating.  Once the patient has finished eating, they should brush their teeth thoroughly using a toothpaste that contains fluoride.  They should then give the trays a rinse with water before replacing them.

Beware of removing too often

Because invisible braces are not a permanent fixture, it can be tempting to remove them often.  However, the patient cannot expect to get good results unless they are wearing the aligners as much as possible every day.

They should be worn for approximately 22 out of every 24 hours.  This means keeping activities like snacking to an absolute minimum.  It is also important to keep drinks like tea, coffee, cola and red wine to mealtimes.  If these are consumed when the braces are being worn, then they are very likely to become stained and will no longer be invisible.

How Invisalign Weybridge can change the way you feel about your smile

In today’s society and world where social media plays a crucial role in our lives and where we are influenced by celebrities, bloggers and social media influencers, it comes as no surprise that teenagers and young adults look up to these people for inspiration, particularly when it comes to appearance. The first thing that people look to have done is aesthetic work to their teeth as this tends to be people’s biggest insecurity. Teeth are something that people cannot hide or shy away from. Everyone wants straight teeth and this is one of the main treatments that people opt for.

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What treatments are available for straightening teeth?

If you are looking to get Invisalign in Weybridge then look no further than Weybridge Orthodontics. We are a leading practice and we have highly trained professionals who will be able to deal with your requirements with expertise and a friendly approach.

Invisalign in Weybridge is one of the most popular alignment treatments that is available on the market. So what is Invisalign in Weybridge? Nowadays people prefer to have more discrete ways of aligning and straightening their teeth as opposed to conventional metal brackets that get attached onto the surface of the teeth. Invisalign in Weybridge is essentially an invisible form of aligning teeth.

How does Invisalign work?

If you want to have Invisalign treatment to straighten your teeth then contact your local dentist for an initial consultation. At the initial consultation the dentist will discuss the treatment and undertake a thorough examination of your mouth to check the extent of alignment and treatment required to achieve maximum results. They will do an x-ray and also inform you about the length of the treatment that you will require. Treatment plans are usually between 12 and 24 months and your treatment plan will depend on the extent of alignment you require.

At that point the dentist will also take imprints of your teeth and these will be sent off to the lab for your Invisalign trays to be created. Once the trays are back with your dentist you will be contacted for your fitting appointment. There your dentist will fit the trays and make sure they are comfortable. You will then be given your instructions on how to look after your trays and maintain your teeth until your next appointment.

Next steps and aftercare

You will be informed that you need to wear the trays for about 18 hours a day. Ensure that you take them out when you need to eat in order to avoid breaking the trays. You can keep them in when you are drinking water. It is important that you maintain good oral hygiene at all times so along with brushing your teeth you need to brush and clean the Invisalign trays. This is to make sure that there is no build up of bacteria which can lead to more issues.

If you wear your Invisalign trays as you are prescribed then you will start seeing your teeth moving into place from as early as six weeks. Therefore make sure you follow your treatment plan as prescribed and you will receive optimal results.

What is Invisalign?

There are a number of different types of alignment treatments that are available on the market but one of the most popular forms of treatment after conventional braces is Invisalign Weybridge.

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So what exactly is Invisalign Weybridge? It is a type of alignment treatment that straightens and aligns teeth in a discreet manner. Invisalign Weybridge is invisible, which means that it cannot be seen when you talk and laugh, but only if you choose to tell people that you are wearing an aligner.

Why do people get Invisalign?

A lot of people feel self-conscious about their teeth and their smile and this is usually the main reason why people tend to get work done to their teeth, in order that this may give them a sense of confidence. Also a lot of people are heavily influenced by what is happening on social media and by what celebrities and influencers are doing to their appearance and this plays a major role in determining whether someone has work done to their dentition or not.

If you are looking to have Invisalign in Weybridge then look no further than Weybridge Orthodontics, leading specialists in the field of orthodontics. Our highly trained staff are able to deal with your needs and requirements in a professional, friendly and approachable manner.

What is the procedure?

If you wish to get Invisalign to straighten your teeth you will need to make an appointment with our dentist, when they will be able to provide you with an initial consultation to assess your teeth and the extent of alignment that is required. Our dentist will examine the health of your gums and teeth and jawbone and will take X-rays of your teeth. They will also take impressions of them and these will then be sent off to the laboratory for your Invisalign trays to be made. These are tailor-made to fit to your teeth and jaw and therefore you must ensure that you do not share your Invisalign trays with anyone else, as this can cause them to get damaged and may break. This may also cause them to be ineffective if they have been tampered with.

Once the trays are back from the laboratory our dentist will contact you for your next appointment, where the Invisalign trays will be fitted to your teeth and you will be shown how to insert and remove them in the correct way. Once you feel comfortable with your Invisalign trays our dentist will then provide you with tips for their care and provide you with details of your next appointment.

Aftercare

Ensure that you wear the trays for about 22 hours a day and only take them off when you are eating and drinking. You are able to drink water with the trays in, but not any other type of beverage.

Ensure that you keep the trays clean by brushing them twice daily. This is to make sure that there is no build up of bacteria on the trays that can affect your hygiene.

A guide to Invisalign

Here at Weybridge Orthodontics, we offer all the latest treatments for teeth that are misaligned. One of the most popular is Invisalign. Many people have heard of this form of teeth straightening, but they are not sure exactly what it is and how it works. This is an explanation of Invisalign Weybridge, and a discussion of some of the benefits that our patients can expect to enjoy during the process.

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What is Invisalign Weybridge?

Invisalign Weybridge is the trade name for invisible braces. They are invisible because they take the form of completely clear trays that are fitted over the teeth, allowing them to retain their natural appearance. These trays are made of super soft plastic and are also known as aligners. The aligners are custom made for the teeth of each of our individual patients using them and are swapped every few weeks as the teeth gradually move into the optimum position.

Invisible

The fact that the aligners are invisible is arguably their most important benefit. Teenagers who are embarrassed about others knowing that they are having their teeth corrected find that these braces present the ideal solution. Many of our older patients, including adults who did not get the opportunity to wear braces in their youth often find clear braces to be the best choice. This is because they have felt self-conscious for years about their teeth, and do not want to add to this by letting the whole world know that they are getting orthodontic treatment. Invisalign allows them to achieve the smile they have always wanted in complete confidence.

Eat as normal

The patient who chooses invisible braces need not worry about having to change their diet.  This is because the aligners are designed to be removed for eating. Some other types of braces require some changes to be made, and certain foods must be avoided. With Invisalign, our patients can eat as normal and even try new foods. It is simply a matter of taking the aligners out, enjoying the meal then brushing the teeth before putting them back in.

Some other kinds of braces can be a little problematic when it comes to eating in general, as they can get food trapped in them. This can then result in staining and potential plaque build-up if it is not possible to remove the debris with brushing at home. Our patients with clear braces have no such worries. Provided they brush their teeth thoroughly after every meal, this need never be an issue.

Better oral hygiene

Because the teeth can be brushed and flossed as normal, our patients who choose invisible braces usually enjoy better oral hygiene. This means a reduced risk of cavities, staining and gum disease. In addition, when the teeth and gums are kept scrupulously clean during treatment, the patient can expect the best possible results when it is complete.

Invisalign is a great choice for people who would like to get a better smile, but feel self-conscious about the idea of wearing braces. It is very efficient and requires little in the way of lifestyle changes. An element of self-discipline regarding wearing the braces most of the time and keeping the teeth clean usually gets great results.

Does life change with Invisalign?

Here at Weybridge Orthodontics, we understand that all our patients have different needs and requirements when it comes to getting the smile they have always wanted. For many, Invisalign Weybridge is a great option as it offers excellent results while being completely invisible to others. Here, we explain what this treatment is and explore whether the life of the patient must change during the process.

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What is Invisalign Weybridge?

Invisalign Weybridge is considered by many to be the ultimate modern solution to correcting teeth that are not quite as straight and uniform as they should be. It is a type of orthodontic treatment that takes the form of completely transparent trays of very soft plastic. These trays are known as aligners and are placed over the teeth. They are swapped for a new set every few weeks, and thus gradually move the teeth into a more desirable position.

Does the patient have to change what they eat?

One of the great advantages of opting for clear aligners over other options such as fixed braces is that there is no need for any changes to the diet of our patients. This is because these braces are designed to be removed for eating. A patient simply removes them before a meal, then brushes their teeth afterwards before putting the aligners back in. This means that they can continue to eat whatever they fancy, and do not have to make any special concessions when it comes to certain foods.

However, it is worth noting that though the patient can eat as normal, snacking should be kept to an absolute minimum. This is because the braces must be worn for most of the time every day: ideally 22 out of every 24 hours. If the patient is taking them out throughout the day for frequent snacks, then they cannot expect the best possible results at the end of the treatment period.

Can the patient drink whatever they like?

The beverage of choice for the person wearing invisible braces should be water. This is because other drinks such as cola, coffee, tea, red wine and so on can stain the braces with the result that they are no longer invisible. If the patient wishes to consume anything other than water as a drink, they should limit this to during meals only when the aligners have been removed. This will protect them and ensure that they remain completely transparent.

Can the patient still play sports or musical instruments?

Yes! This is a great advantage of clear braces. Other forms of orthodontic treatment can make playing contact sports or musical instruments difficult if not impossible, because they are permanent fixtures for the duration of treatment. However, because Invisalign can be taken out for matches and for music lessons or performances, then the patient can enjoy their usual activities as normal.

Wearing invisible braces does not mean that the life of the patient has to change drastically.  They can still enjoy all their favourite foods and many hobbies and the advantage of the fact that no one needs to know they are being treated with aligners. However, there is an element of self-discipline required that should be considered carefully before embarking on treatment, something we invariably point out to our prospective Invisalign patients.

All about Invisalign in Weybridge

Many people are unhappy with their smile. This can cause them to feel self-conscious and prevent them from fulfilling their potential in many areas of life. Here at Weybridge Orthodontics, we help our patients choose from a range of options to get the best possible smile. That can literally be transformative, allowing the patient to become the best and most confident version of themselves.

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One of our most popular options is Invisalign in Weybridge. It is a favourite among many of our patients because it comes with a range of benefits that do not apply to other kinds of more traditional braces, while still offering great results.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the brand name for invisible braces. They are composed of trays of very soft clear plastic that are placed over the teeth for the purposes of correcting misalignment. They are also known as aligners, and are custom made to fit each patient on an individual basis. The patient wears the aligners for a few weeks before swapping them for a new set that is a slightly different size. Over a period of months, the trays gently move the teeth into the optimum position.

Invisible

The transparent nature of these braces is one of the main reasons why they are so popular with many of our patients. Those who do not wish the world to know that they are having their teeth straightened often choose Invisalign in Weybridge.

A word of caution though: the aligners only remain invisible if they are cared for. If the patient consumes drinks other than water, for example, coffee or cola, whilst wearing the braces, then they can become stained. Smoking with the braces on can also cause staining. Therefore, taking good care of the aligners and taking our advice about establishing a healthy regime during treatment is of vital importance.

Comfortable

These braces are composed of very soft plastic which has been moulded to match the teeth of the patient exactly. This means that they are easy to wear and that any discomfort is minimal, especially when compared with other kinds of braces.

Faster

Having the teeth straightened using aligners is usually a much quicker process than being treated with more traditional kinds of braces. The treatment period usually lasts a matter of months, rather than years. However, it is worth noting that this varies between patients, so it is always worth talking to us about expectations on an individual basis.

Invisalign: a great choice

Having misaligned teeth corrected with Invisalign allows our patients to reap the benefits of a fantastic new smile whilst keeping their treatment under wraps. For those who have missed out on teeth straightening as young people, this is a very appealing option due to the fact that these braces are invisible to others. Added to that, they offer high levels of comfort, and the treatment process is usually a relatively quick one. Provided the aligners and teeth are looked after with care during treatment, the patient can expect great results that have a significant impact on their confidence and self-esteem.

Advantages of Invisalign in Weybridge

Invisalign in Weybridge is an increasingly popular choice for people of all ages. Here, we explain how it works and go into detail about the advantages of opting for this treatment. Invisalign is also known as clear braces and is composed of trays of soft transparent plastic that fit seamlessly over the teeth to straighten them over time. Clear braces are one of the many ways in which we help our patients here at Weybridge Orthodontics to get the smile they have always wanted.

Invisible

Clear aligners are invisible to others, which means that the patient does not have to worry about feeling self-conscious about having their teeth straightened. Whether the patient is a young person or an adult, they don’t necessarily want the whole world to know that they are wearing braces. Getting invisible braces means that they can get on with living life as normal without inviting any awkward questions or queries.

Removable

Unlike other kinds of braces, Invisalign in Weybridge is designed to be easily removed at the convenience of the patient. This means that playing a favourite sport, for example, does not have to change due to concerns about the aligners becoming damaged. However, it is worth noting that if the treatment is to be fully effective, the trays must be worn for most of the time every day. We recommend around 22 hours each day, with removal taking place only if essential for sports and for eating.

Eat as normal

Patients undergoing straightening treatment with fixed braces often have to be careful about the kinds of foods and drinks they are consuming. There is no such requirement with clear braces because they are taken out for mealtimes. This means that the patient can enjoy all their favourite foods and drinks as normal, with absolutely no restrictions at all.

However, it is important to brush the teeth thoroughly after eating, and to keep the aligners clean. This means that there will be minimal possibility of any bits of food becoming trapped between the teeth and the aligners, which can cause staining, decay and the build up of plaque: all of which can prevent the patient from getting the best possible smile at the end of the treatment period.

Faster results

Invisible braces often produce faster results than other kinds of treatment. Fixed metal braces usually have to be worn for a period of years, but patients who choose clear aligners often only have to wait a few months before they get the straightening result they were hoping for. The amount of time that is needed does vary between patients, so it is a good idea to ask us about the expected treatment period on an individual basis. Invisalign is an excellent choice for patients who want quick results with minimal disruption to their lives. These braces allow the patient to eat and drink as normal and to go about their usual routine without having to make any big changes. In addition, their invisible nature means that there is no need to feel self-conscious about having treatment, and the patient can remain confident that no one else needs to know if that is what they prefer.

How long does Invisalign in Weybridge take to work?

Invisalign in Weybridge is rapidly growing more popular for the simple reason that the system is basically invisible. With the ability to remove them when eating and cleaning, they are an extremely user-friendly option to teeth straightening. We know it sounds too good to be true and some have questions about the time it takes to move teeth vs other more traditional braces but there is no one size fits all to this question. Here’s our discussion on the topic.

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‘How long until Invisalign straightens my teeth?’

Simply, the answer is ‘it depends’. For those with more simple cases, aligner work can be done in as quickly as six months. However, on average, Invisalign in Weybridge can take around twelve to eighteen months. With more complicated cases such as crowding, the treatment could be longer at more like twenty-four months. It’s really important to understand early on that just because you look and think you have the same problem with your teeth as someone else you’ve seen who only took six months to move – doesn’t mean that it won’t take longer for you.

To be more specific

When you come and visit us at Weybridge Orthodontics for your initial consultation our dentists will be able to advise on your individual smile and how long they think it could take. Things they will take into account are how much straightening your teeth need to reach the desired result, and how far a distance your teeth need to move – the further the distance the longer the treatment will take. We will also consider the pace of your movement – everyone will move at a different rate and this is not controllable. We look at how complex your case is – the more complicated, the more difficult, the longer time is a standard rule. How much you actually wear your Invisalign in Weybridge will also be considered, as you will be required to wear your trays for 22 hours per day. If you don’t wear your aligners long enough, treatment time will take much longer and just simply won’t be as effective.

All that being said

There are no guarantees on speed with any orthodontic system and the benefits of Invisalign are that you are able to carry on life as usual whilst treatment is happening. The impact on your daily life is very minimal and you won’t need to change any of your dietary habits either.

With Invisalign, your biggest challenge will be making sure you are extra strict with your oral hygiene routine. Making sure you are brushing after every meal and cleaning your appliance correctly twice daily. Poor dental hygiene could lead to gum disease or decay which would be detrimental to progress in straightening.

If you think Invisalign could be the solution for you, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with one of our team. We would love to answer any questions you might have and will be happy to get you booked in for your first appointment!

Did you know there are other long-term health benefits to Invisalign in Weybridge?

The Invisalign teeth straightening system has become super popular across the globe. Thousands and thousands of people have used Invisalign to get the perfect smile they’ve dreamed of.

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So now the real question is: are you happy with your smile and if not, what’s stopping you from getting the great smile you’ve always wanted? We’ve compiled some of the not so well known psychological benefits of a straighter smile – so if you were unsure before you’ll be ready to take the plunge and get on board with Invisalign in Weybridge after knowing these.

Psychological benefits

Did you know that 90% of the body’s serotonin is made in your gut. What’s serotonin, you ask? Serotonin impacts every part of your body, from your emotions to your motor skills. It’s the body’s natural mood stabilizer – it’s the chemical that helps with sleeping, digesting, and eating. But what’s really important is that it reduces depression, anxiety, heals wounds and maintains bone health.

Well how is this relevant to straightening teeth? When a person has a crooked smile, it can greatly impact their bite and the way they chew and subsequently digest food. When your body struggles to break down food in the gut correctly, digestion becomes a difficult process for the body and can cause a lack of serotonin. You know that feeling of gloom you get when you’re tummy is bad? That’s no coincidence; that’s because your stomach is telling your brain it’s having a tough old time. If you’re someone who struggles with mood disorders and also has a misalignment in your mouth – having corrective treatment could seriously help make a change for your mental health. Invisalign in Weybridge could be the system to correct this, and with it being so discret you won’t need to worry about the visual implications of teeth straightening on your life.

We should never dismiss the effect that poor self image and confidence can have on us. Feeling constantly aware of your smile, that people might be looking at it or that someone could be judging you, will inevitably take up precious brain power and energy that we could be using on other more important things – like our work or families. Unfortunately anxiety breeds anxiety and the more time you spend worrying about your smile the more aware you will be of it. Taking the route to straightening your teeth could give you that boost you’ve always needed to strive for a new job or go on that much needed family holiday (and not worry about all the photos) and what’s more with Invisalign in Weybridge you could be looking at just six months for the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

What do I do next?

If everything we’ve said feel like it’s ringing alarm bells inside you, then please do not hesitate to get in contact with us at Weybridge Orthodontics, one of our lovely team will be delighted to answer any questions you have and be ready to book you in to get you started on your Invisalign in Weybridge journey.