Invisalign is one of the most recognisable orthodontic brands in the world and for many people invisalign is the process of straightening teeth using plastic aligners. But Invisalign patents expired in 2017 opening the market to other aligner manufacturers. Today thanks to clever software and 3d printing, orthodontic aligners can be made using a process that is nearly identicle to Invisalign. Like many of the most advanced orthodontic practices, we make our own ‘North Sydney’ invisalign treatment in house
- Clear aligners are less visible than braces
- Oral hygiene is easier
- Invisalign is well suited to patients who have previously had gum problems they are removable
- Tooth movements can be staged in tiny increments for special cases
- Eating and drinking is unaffected while in treatment
- Invisalign is more comfortable than braces or invisible braces
- Invisalign is often quicker than braces for very minor alignments
- its easy to see how the plan using the Digital treatments simulation
Invisalign is a useful product in the hands of a trained orthodontist, and patients generally are keen to embrace it. Experience shows that plastic aligners work best for patients with mild irregularity and good motivation. Even though invisalign is heavily marketed by aligner manufacturers it is the doctor who is responsible for the treatment outcome using aligner products. We have successfully treated many patients who except for invisalign would never have considered orthodontic treatment. We don’t recommend aligners for everybody and our experience shows aligners can be very slow and ineffective for the wrong cases. Its not for every case – but then neither is braces nor any other device!
- invisalign treatment is not invisible
- Aligners need visible attachments to work well
- The use of orthodontic elastics can be tricky
- Aligners can adversely affect how well the teeth settle into an even bite
- lipstick or blood on the aligners can look scarey
- Aligner treatment is less predictable than braces
- Uses plastic and lots of it – the environmental impact is unknown
- Not suitable and possiby harmful for patients with a deep overbite
