Invisalign is a revolutionary treatment option that is changing the way people think about orthodontics. Unlike traditional metal braces, this treatment uses clear plastic aligners, custom-made for each patient’s smile. These aligners are also removable and virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for people self-conscious about the appearance of metal braces.
Since the mid-90s, Align Technology has changed how people straighten their smiles with Invisalign. Instead of a metal bracket and wire system, Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligners, each worn for about two weeks. These aligners gradually and gently shift the teeth into their desired position and then get replaced by a new set of aligners as the teeth move. This means there’s no painful brace tightening to worry about, and treatment times are often shorter than traditional braces.
Align Technology’s diligence to research and innovation has played a vital role in developing and improving these aligners and the orthodontic industry. Here are a few ways in which research has contributed to the evolution of orthodontics:
Aesthetics:
Invisalign’s virtually-invisible aligners are a profound improvement on metal braces and conventional orthodontic appliances in terms of aesthetics. With this treatment, you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. This is particularly useful for adults who want to improve their smile without the appearance of metal braces impacting their image.
Materials:
Recent research has led to the creation of the new ‘SmartTrack’ material that is more powerful and durable than earlier versions. This patented technology is exclusive to Invisalign aligners, providing ‘75% more predictable tooth movement when compared to Invisalign aligners previously made‘. This means you can now expect your aligners to last longer and be more effective at moving your teeth into the desired position.
Customisation:
The evolution of the advanced ClinCheck computer software allows us to create highly customised aligners tailored to each patient’s unique dental structure. This promotes more controlled tooth movement, leading to faster treatment times and better results. Through this software, we can also show you an accurate ‘before and after’ visual prediction of the final results before you commence treatment.
Flexibility:
Invisalign also offers a level of flexibility unmatched by traditional braces. You can remove these aligners for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth to maintain your normal diet and oral hygiene routine without any additional hassle. Whereas, you need to avoid certain foods and cleaning teeth can be difficult with traditional braces.
Efficiency:
Invisalign is more efficient than traditional braces in many respects. New techniques, such as “controlled arch expansion” and SmartForce attachments for applying more force to particular teeth means that patients can expect faster results than traditional braces for correcting a crooked smile and mild misalignment. Invisalign’s efficiency also greatly benefits patients who have previously had orthodontic treatment but are now experiencing tooth relapse and want to retrain their teeth back into its corrected position.
Comfort:
Invisalign is very comfortable to wear because the smooth SmartTrack material is custom-fit to your teeth – this means there are no sharp edges or brackets to contend with. Much study has gone into this technology to minimise discomfort and pain, including creating different attachments, customising the aligners’ shape and size, and trialling different materials.
Remote Monitoring:
Remote monitoring systems, such as the Invisalign app, gives you the power to take pictures of your teeth from a smartphone to send to your orthodontist for analysis. This allows orthodontists to monitor your progress without needing in-person appointments, which can be especially beneficial if you live far away or have a busy lifestyle.
Power:
Invisalign can now help patients with more complex orthodontic issues through the power of SmartForce attachments and torque control. This tallows us to address a wide range of concerns, including an overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, and gaps between the teeth.
Final Thoughts
Invisalign really has changed the way dentist and patients approach orthodontics. With its clear plastic aligners that are custom-fit to each patient’s smile, Invisalign offers many advantages over traditional metal braces. It is virtually invisible, more comfortable, flexible, and efficient. Invisalign is also an excellent option for patients with moderate orthodontic issues or those who have had previous orthodontic treatment.
Research has played a significant role in developing and improving Invisalign aligners. The continued study into materials, customisation, efficiency, comfort, remote monitoring and power has led to a more comfortable, efficient and precise treatment option for our patients. As research continues, Invisalign aligners will likely continue to evolve and become even more effective at straightening teeth.
Why You Should Choose Invisalign Treatment at Shields Dental & Orthodontic Clinic:
We are a leading provider of Invisalign in the Limerick, Castletroy, Roscrea and Blackrock areas, led by our Invisalign Dentist, Dr Robert Hardy and our Specialist Orthodontist, Dr Raksha Batajoo.
At Shields, we provide free Treatment Consultations with our highly experienced treatment coordinators to help you determine whether this is the right choice for you. Free Teeth Whitening treatment is also included with all our Invisalign packages.
Are Fees keeping you from achieving your dream smile? We offer buy now, pay later options with 0% finance available for up to 18 months to make paying for treatment just that little bit easier.
Book your free consultation online today or call our friendly reception team at 061 539026.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
