Invisalign was introduced in 1999 by Align technologies and utilises a series of clear plastic aligners that are specifically designed to fit over the patients teeth and gradually manipulate them into position. This is obviously a much more aesthetically pleasing system of straightening teeth and one that has rapidly become one of the most popular orthodontic treatments. The clear plastic is less than one millimeter thick and is barely noticeable unless up very close. The other major advantage is that Invisalign braces are removable, which conventional straightening braces are often not.

Although invisible braces have existed before they have often been flawed. Invisalign uses the very latest CAD/CAM (computer aided design/computer aided manufacture) technology which means exact 3D simulations of the patient’s teeth can be made on the computer and the plastic retainers manufactured according to the exact specifications. This removes the need for constant dental molds which have been a major negative factor in previous clear braces. Multiple sets of invisible braces will be given to the patient by the dentist, each to be worn for a period of about two weeks, which gradually move the teeth into the preferred position. There are usually about twenty sets for upper and lower teeth required but this often depends on the patient.

Invisalign braces may not be suitable for all patients, and conventional metal braces have also come along way in terms of size and visibility, but for the right patient they can offer discreet straightening without embarrassment. Dentists in Merseyside will be able to assess if an Invisalign brace will be suitable for you during a routine check up.

Then in 1999, Align technologies released their new line of clear plastic braces called Invisalign. Although there had been clear braces before, they had been at best only partially effectual due to the difficulties of producing them. Invisalign retainers are made from one millimeter thick clear plastic that are almost invisible unless standing very close to the patient. Furthermore, they are manufactured using the very latest computer aided design and 3D technology. Dentists can use digital x-rays to project an image of the patient’s teeth onto a computer. This image is incredibly accurate and enables manufacture to a similar standard of accuracy.

The Invisialign system involves wearing a series of retainers, each with a slight adjustment, to move teeth into the desired straightened position. On average, about twenty sets of retainers will be required, although this can vary depending on the patient, which are replaced every two to three weeks.

Invisalign also has the advantage of being completely removable, which means that unlike the traditional metal braces, they can be removed when eating. This allows patients to eat exactly what they want without any of the associated mess.

Invisalign braces may not be suitable for all patients, but those who use the system gain the full benefits of discreet teeth correction with a minimum of discomfort and loss of confidence. Dentists in Birkenhead will be able to assess whether you are suitable for the Invisalign system and advise on how long the treatment is likely to last.