Invisalign Meaning – What Is It?
Invisalign meaning?! What is it?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system used by dentists for teeth straightening.
In this article, we’ll delve further into the Invisalign meaning. This includes what it is and how it can help you get straight, stunning teeth.
Invisalign meaning – What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the world’s biggest clear aligner teeth straightening system.
The clear aligners are similar to a mouthguard but much thinner plastic and hardly noticeable to other people.
- You’ll wear a set of aligners roughly 1-2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink and clean them.
- Every time you change the aligner your teeth will move.
- You’ll visit your dentist every 4-6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
- Once you have finished all of the invisible aligners you’ll be provided with retainers (which we cover later on). These stop your teeth from relapsing or moving back.
How is Invisalign different to normal ‘train-track’ braces?
Invisalign is COMFORTABLE:
It’s easy to take the clear aligners in and out for eating. They can be more comfortable than traditional orthodontic braces as there are no wires or brackets. The aligners fit flush to your teeth so it’s hard to realise they’re there.
Invisalign is DISCREET:
The Invisalign aligners are clear, making them almost invisible to people around you. Unlike some orthodontic braces, there’s no metal and the aligners are made of strong plastic.
Invisalign is CONVENIENT:
Unlike braces, you can remove the braces to eat and drink so food won’t get trapped under the wires and brackets. They’re easy to remove and clean and less time is needed for dental appointments.
Invisalign Meaning of Attachments
Sometimes when you have Invisalign your dentist will tell you that you need attachments, but what on earth does this mean?
Invisalign attachments are small pieces of white filling that are placed on the front surface of your teeth. They give the trays something to push against which helps to move your teeth.
Invisalign attachments are strategically placed in specific positions and angulations to give the optimum tooth movement during your treatment.
What is IPR?
The meaning of Invisalign IPR is ‘interproximal reduction‘.
This is the reshaping of the side surfaces of your teeth to make some space to allow them to straighten. Normally a slither of enamel is shaved away to create the room but this will not be noticeable visually or cause any detriment to your teeth.
Invisalign Retainer Meaning Explained
After you’ve finished your Invisalign treatment your teeth need to be locked in place. This is where Invisalign retainers come into play, used to stop months of hard work reversing
Bone is soft and spongy after finishing treatment and teeth can drift within it.
There are several types of retainers available including fixed wire retainers, removable clear retainers and Hawley retainers. Retainers are even made by Invisalign, meaning you have the peace of mind that you’re in safe hands and your teeth won’t move.
You should think of retainers as a crucial part of Invisalign treatment and be ready for the lifelong commitment of wearing them.
Any other information
If you’re looking for any further advice on Invisalign, meaning pricing, procedures, science, how it affects your lifestyle or anything else then please get in touch and I’ll be happy to help.
AUTHOR
Dr Gareth Edwards BDS (Hons) MFDS RCPS (Glasg) qualified from dental school with honours. Working in the Bournemouth & Poole area, he has a particular interest in orthodontics and is a certified Invisalign and Six Month Smiles, provider. If you’d like to learn the difference between standard specialist orthodontists in Bournemouth and the Smile Stories team, follow the link.
