The facts about Invisalign
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a system for straightening teeth without the use of conventional metal braces. Invisalign works by repositioning teeth step by step into their ideal position, using a series of custom-made transparent removable clear ‘aligners’. These aligners are printed using the very latest in 3D printing technology, gradually straighten your teeth over time. No brackets and wires, and none of the restrictions that come with metal braces. The key aspects of Invisalign are:
Clear Aligners: Invisalign aligners are made from a transparent plastic material, making them much less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
Custom-Made: Each set of aligners is custom-made based on a 3D scan of the patient’s teeth. This ensures a precise fit and effective treatment.
Removable: Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. This can make maintaining oral hygiene easier and allows for eating without restrictions.
Treatment Plan: Patients typically receive a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, each slightly different from the last, gradually shifting the teeth into the correct position.
Comfort: The smooth plastic of Invisalign aligners tends to be more comfortable than the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces, reducing irritation to the gums and cheeks.
Treatment Duration: The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case but typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, similar to traditional braces.
Effectiveness: Invisalign is effective for treating a variety of dental issues, including overcrowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. However, very complex cases may still require traditional orthodontic treatments.
Monitoring: Regular check-ups with a Specialist Orthodontist or general dentist are required to monitor progress and receive the next set of aligners.
Benefits of Invisalign
With no wires, no brackets and no braces, Invisalign offers a virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth. It’s like the secret agent of orthodontics! Invisalign works by using a series of clear and comfortable aligners that no one will be able to tell you are wearing.
They are barely visible on your teeth and removable for when you want to eat, brush your teeth or attend a special social or professional event.
Invisalign offers several benefits over traditional braces, making it a popular choice for orthodontic treatment. Here are some key benefits:
Aesthetic Appeal:
Nearly Invisible: Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, making them less noticeable than metal braces.
Confidence: Because they are less conspicuous, many people feel more confident wearing them in social and professional settings.
Comfort:
Smooth Plastic: Made from smooth, high-quality plastic, Invisalign aligners are generally more comfortable than traditional braces, which can irritate the gums and cheeks.
No Sharp Edges: Unlike braces with metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners don’t have sharp edges that can cause cuts or sores in the mouth.
Convenience:
Removable: Aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and enjoy a normal diet without restrictions.
Ease of Cleaning: Both the aligners and teeth are easier to clean compared to maneuvering around braces.
Predictable Results:
Digital Treatment Plan: The treatment is planned with advanced 3D imaging technology, allowing patients to see a virtual representation of the expected results before starting the treatment.
Customised Fit: Each set of aligners is custom-made to fit the patient’s teeth and gradually move them into the desired position.
Fewer Orthodontic Visits:
Less Frequent Adjustments: Invisalign usually requires fewer visits to the orthodontist for adjustments compared to traditional braces, which need regular tightening.
Versatility:
Wide Range of Cases: Invisalign can effectively treat a variety of orthodontic issues, including crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
Teen and Adult Options: Invisalign offers specific aligners designed for teenagers (Invisalign Teen) with features like compliance indicators and eruption tabs for growing teeth.
Lifestyle and Activity Friendly:
Sports and Activities: Invisalign aligners are less likely to cause injury during sports or other physical activities compared to metal braces.
Musical Instruments: They are also more comfortable for individuals who play wind instruments.
Minimal Impact on Daily Life:
Eating and Drinking: Since aligners are removable, there are no dietary restrictions. You can eat and drink whatever you like, unlike with braces that might restrict certain foods.
These benefits make Invisalign a convenient, comfortable, and discreet option for orthodontic treatment, appealing to both teenagers and adults looking to improve their smiles.
Process for Invisalign Treatment
The process for Invisalign treatment involves several steps, starting with an initial consultation and continuing through treatment to the final result. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:
Initial Consultation
Assessment: During the consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your orthodontic needs to determine if Invisalign is suitable for you.
Creating a Treatment Plan
Digital Scans or Impressions: The dentist will take a 3D digital scan of your teeth. These will be used to create a 3D model of your teeth.
Treatment Mapping: Using the 3D model, the provider will map out a detailed treatment plan, showing the movement of your teeth at each stage. You’ll be able to see a virtual representation of the final result.
Receiving Your Aligners
Custom Aligners: Based on the treatment plan, a series of custom-made aligners will be produced. Each set of aligners is slightly different, designed to gradually move your teeth.
Initial Fitting: You’ll receive your first set of aligners and the provider will ensure they fit properly. Instructions on how to wear and care for them will be provided.
Wearing the Aligners
Daily Use: Aligners should be worn 20-22 hours a day, only removing them for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing.
Changing Aligners: You’ll switch to a new set of aligners approximately every one to two weeks, as directed by your prodentist. Each new set will continue to move your teeth gradually.
Regular Check-Ups
Monitoring Progress: Regular visits to your provider (typically every 6-8 weeks) are necessary to monitor your progress and receive the next sets of aligners.
Adjustments if Needed: The provider may make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
Completion of Treatment
Final Results: Once you have gone through all the sets of aligners, your treatment is complete. Your teeth should be in the desired position.
Evaluation: The provider will evaluate the final position of your teeth and ensure you are satisfied with the results.
Post-Treatment Maintenance
Retainers: To maintain your new smile, you’ll likely need to wear retainers. These are usually worn at night and help keep your teeth in their new positions.
Ongoing Care: Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are important to maintain your results.
Throughout the Invisalign process, it’s crucial to follow your dentist's instructions carefully and wear your aligners as recommended to achieve the best results.
Typical procedures
There are two main procedures associated with Inman aligner treatment which allow us to be able to give you the beautiful smile that you deserve. One of them is the use of attachment technology and the other is known as IPR. More details of each are given below:
Before & After
Invisalign Crowding case
Before
This patient was concerned mainly by the upper right incisor tooth which was not in line with the rest of the teeth.
After
A short treatment course with Invisalign was able to correct this crowding giving the patient the look she wanted. The main benefit of Invisalign for this patient was that it was discrete and comfortable so the patient was able to get on with her daily activities and work without any discomfort or worry regarding the visibility of the brace. Furthermore due to the ease of treatment with Invisalign, there are seldom any emergencies making this process so much more predictable, comfortable and efficient for the adult patient.
Upper and lower crowding
Before
This case of upper and lower crowding was treated by our specialist Ciara as the patient did not like how his teeth detracted from his smile. There was a fair bit of crowding with the teeth angled and mal-postioned creating a disharmony in the appearance of the smile.
After
Effective treatment with the Invisalign system allowed his teeth to be straightened in a most efficient way giving him back the confidence to smile once again without being conscious of how his teeth look. The crowding was corrected without the need for any extraction and in addition to a better smile the bite was improved so the teeth meet better. This allows better efficiency in the chewing process and less damage and wear in the long run.
Cross bite corrected
Before
This patient did not like the fact that his upper incisor teeth were biting behind his lower teeth which is known as a 'crossbite' as he felt this was detracting from his natural smile. The bite was also out of sync which meant that the efficiency of the chewing process was compromised and would have led to a quicker deterioration and wear of some these teeth in the long run.
After
Treatment with Invisalign was able to correct this quickly and efficiently and has lead to a more stable bite and aesthetic smile. The benefit Invisalign brought to this case was that the patient was able to eat and chew normally without any hindrance or restriction as the Invisalign brace can be removed momentarily throughout the day for eating and brushing
Significant crowding corrected
Before
Before starting treatment we had a significant level of crowding with both the upper canines sticking out. A couple of the incisors are also tucked in behind the lower teeth which is known as a 'Cross bite'. These issues were detracting from the patients' smile and he wanted it to be corrected so he could smile with confidence once again.
After
The finished result after Invisalign treatment shows how the canines are now back into the right position with the crossbite and crowding all corrected. This has created a more harmonious smile and a very happy patient
What our patients ask about Invisalign
Got one more? Contact us now or book in for a consultation and and we will be happy to assist.
Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible — people may not even notice you are wearing them. You can remove them to eat and drink, to brush and floss, or for special occasions. Unlike fixed braces there are no metal brackets or wires that could irritate your mouth or break, sending you to your dentist for an emergency visit.
As you replace each aligner, your teeth shift little by little until they straighten to the final position we engineer. The aligners are custom-made to each person’s prescription to perfectly correct the alignment of the teeth in as little as a few months.
Once your dentist agrees that you are suitable for Invisalign, you will begin with a consultation during which you will be able to see a 3D time-lapse image of your teeth before, during and after treatment. We will take digital dental impressions and commence fabrication of your bespoke Invisalign aligners. Then you will wear the retainers for the prescribed amount of time, returning to change them every so often until your treatment is complete.
Invisalign aligners are a comparitive alternative to fixed braces in achieving the same end result of beautiful looking smile with straight teeth. For some types of tooth movement it is actually superior to a fixed brace in achieving the result in a much quicker time frame. It was designed to be a more comfortable and discreet alternative to a fixed brace and for these reasons a lot of patients opt for it. Fixed braces still has a place and there are certain cases for where we would recommend it over Invisalign. Our experts will be able to let you know the best solution for you at your initial consultation.
There is no upper or lower age limit to benefitting from treatment with Invisalign. Whether you're in your teens or in your 90s there is no age related barrier to getting your teeth straightened. Suitability is rather assessed on the health of your mouth and ability to comply with the treatment and this is assessed at your initial consultation stage by one of our specialists. You must have a healthy mouth before commencing any orthodontic or cosmetic treatment including Invisalign.
Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible — people may not even notice you’re wearing them. You can remove them to eat and drink, to brush and floss, or for special occasions. Unlike fixed braces there are no metal brackets or wires that could irritate your mouth or break, sending you to your dentist for an emergency visit.
As you replace each aligner, your teeth shift little by little until they straighten to the final position we engineer. The aligners are custom-made to each person’s prescription to perfectly and correct the alignment of the teeth in as little as a few months.
Invisalign clear aligners are made of flexible plastic — specifically, a patented thermoplastic material called SmartTrack® created exclusively for Invisalign treatment.
Yes, we offer 0% finance over 12 months, or with low interest rates for upto 5 years. Read more on our Fees & Finance overview.
No restrictions whatsoever! Invisalign clear aligners are removable, so there are no food restrictions at all, so you can continue to enjoy all of your favourite dishes whilst getting your teeth straightened!
Invisalign aligners are worn for an optimal period of 22 hours a day. They are removable, so wearers can take them out for short periods, including when they want to eat or drink. Additionally, it’s much easier to clean and floss your teeth and keep your mouth healthy.
You will usually need to wear each aligner for 7-10 days before changing onto the next one in the sequence. Your dentist will advise you exactly how long to wear each aligner before changing based on your specific circumstances.
Yes! Invisalign treatment can be a great solution for both adults and teens looking for a virtually invisible method to improve their smile. The most recent technological advancements make it possible to fix nearly all common teeth-straightening and bite issues, from simple to complex — all without interrupting your busy life.
The cost of Invisalign is dependent on your specific treatment requirements. Following a short consultation, your dentist will provide you with a bespoke treatment plan, which will include the cost of Invisalign and any other treatment required to prepare you for treatment. There are many factors that can impact the cost of Invisalign treatment, these are usually based on complexity, length of treatment and the number of retainers required. Visit our fees and finance page for more details.
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Testimonials
Monica had an unpleasant experience with her dentist at a young age whilst undergoing Orthodontic treatment. Sadly, this altered her perception of visiting the dentist during adulthood. She decided to visit Zental Dental Cricklewood in London when she was in need of an emergency dentist. Monica shares her brave story and explains why she continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Monica had an unpleasant experience with her dentist at a young age whilst undergoing Orthodontic treatment. Sadly, this altered her perception of visiting the dentist during adulthood. She decided to visit Zental Dental Cricklewood in London when she was in need of an emergency dentist. Monica shares her brave story and explains why she continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Monica had an unpleasant experience with her dentist at a young age whilst undergoing Orthodontic treatment. Sadly, this altered her perception of visiting the dentist during adulthood. She decided to visit Zental Dental Cricklewood in London when she was in need of an emergency dentist. Monica shares her brave story and explains why she continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Monica had an unpleasant experience with her dentist at a young age whilst undergoing Orthodontic treatment. Sadly, this altered her perception of visiting the dentist during adulthood. She decided to visit Zental Dental Cricklewood in London when she was in need of an emergency dentist. Monica shares her brave story and explains why she continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Marlon lost confidence with his smile as he suffered from teeth crowding. He decided to visit Zental Dental Barnet in London and undergo Orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is a clear aligner system or invisible braces that can be removed anytime. Marlon shares his brave story and explains why he continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Marlon lost confidence with his smile as he suffered from teeth crowding. He decided to visit Zental Dental Barnet in London and undergo Orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is a clear aligner system or invisible braces that can be removed anytime. Marlon shares his brave story and explains why he continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Marlon lost confidence with his smile as he suffered from teeth crowding. He decided to visit Zental Dental Barnet in London and undergo Orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is a clear aligner system or invisible braces that can be removed anytime. Marlon shares his brave story and explains why he continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Marlon lost confidence with his smile as he suffered from teeth crowding. He decided to visit Zental Dental Barnet in London and undergo Orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is a clear aligner system or invisible braces that can be removed anytime. Marlon shares his brave story and explains why he continues Trust in Calm with Zental.
Meet the experts who will treat you
Dr. Hemel is passionate about creating healthy, natural-looking smile transformations that not only enhance patients' appearances but also boost their confidence and overall happiness. He believes prevention is key to a healthy smile, and empowers his patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal oral health.
With a calm and friendly demeanor, Dr. Hemel puts even the most nervous patients at ease. He understands that visiting the dentist can cause anxiety, and is committed to providing a gentle and relaxing experience for everyone.
Dr. Hemel's dedication to dentistry began with his undergraduate studies at King's College London, a world-renowned dental institution. There, he further honed his skills by winning a runners-up prize in sedation dentistry, demonstrating his expertise in ensuring patient comfort during procedures. His academic excellence continued during his foundation training year, where he received the prestigious award for best foundation presentation within his deanery. Dr. Hemel is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Aesthetic Dentistry at King's College London, further solidifying his commitment to providing patients with the most up-to-date techniques and materials for achieving natural-looking, beautiful smiles. Dr. Hemel is dedicated to staying at the forefront of dentistry by regularly attending courses and conferences. This ensures that he can offer his patients the latest advancements in dental care.
In addition to his dental expertise, Dr. Hemel is trained in facial aesthetic treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, Profhilo, and skin boosters. This allows him to rejuvenate the entire face, creating a balanced and harmonious appearance.
Dr. Hemel utilises his training in Invisalign®, composite bonding, veneers, and smile makeovers to craft personalized treatment plans for each patient. His holistic approach to facial aesthetics allows him to rejuvenate not just patients' smiles, but their entire faces, creating a natural-looking and fresher appearance.
While dentistry is Dr. Hemel's passion, he also enjoys travelling and fitness outside of work.
Dr Hemel looks forward to welcoming you and helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile!
Mira has a special interest in General & Cosmetic dentistry, smile makeovers, Smilefast, teeth whitening & Invisalign.
Dr Mira Morcos completed her studies at The Royal London School of Medicine & Dentistry in 2008. Her passion for providing beautiful healthy smiles has led her to complete an array of further postgraduate training.
This has been focused on minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry, as well as endodontics (that’s root canal treatment to you and me) travelling as far as San Francisco to learn from some of the best dentists in the world.
Mira also enjoys restoring smiles with cosmetic orthodontics such as Invisalign and is always up to date with the leading technology available to use for her patients.
In addition to high quality dental care, Dr Mira’s inviting, calm and gentle nature ensures that even the most nervous of patients feel very comfortable.
Parth graduated from King’s College London and is currently undertaking further education for a Diploma in Restorative and Aesthetic dentistry.
His calm, caring approach makes even the most anxious patient comfortable during appointments and tailors treatments to his patients’ needs.
Parth enjoys carrying out a range of general dentistry, and in particular has an interest in aesthetically restoring teeth and oral surgery. He also strives for perfection in composite bonding and straightening teeth with Invisalign.
In his spare time, he enjoys a variety of sports including football, cricket and the occasional extreme sports like skydiving and scuba diving! He enjoys a range of other activities and travelling, such as climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Zarah qualified from The University of Manchester and completed her foundation year with Thames Valley. Here she progressed her dental skills in cosmetic restorations, root canal treatment, extractions, veneers, crowns and dentures. She has been fortunate enough to have gained experience shadowing highly esteemed dentists over the past few years while carrying out further post graduate training. This has allowed her to further develop her skills and appreciate an interest in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
Zarah prides herself in providing a high - quality service with a strong focus on transparency and a warm and honest approach. She enjoys taking the time to understand her patients and help ease their anxieties with her calming and friendly nature.
Outside of dentistry, Zarah enjoys spending time with her friends and family, staying fit and is a big Harry potter fan!
Yousif graduated from Barts and the London School of Dentistry. He has a passion for delivering the highest quality of care in a friendly and relaxed environment.
He has a particular interest in endodontics (Root canal treatments) and loves improving a patient’s confidence through their smile, whether this be through cosmetic restorations or crown and bridgework. He will also be providing Invisalign treatment to broaden the options available for his patients.
His friendly and calm mannerisms will ensure you feel comfortable and confident throughout each appointment
Tosin graduated from the University of Birmingham and thoroughly enjoys the variety that comes with working in general practice. She particularly appreciates the positive impact aesthetic and restorative dentistry can have on her patients. She therefore chose to build on her clinical skills through further study and has developed a love for creating natural, beautiful smiles using tools such as Invisalign, whitening and bonding.
Tosin always puts her patients’ best interests first and believes it is important for every patient to be involved in the planning process to ensure treatment is well-tailored to their personal needs and preferences. This combined with her gentle nature, bubbly personality and keen eye for detail allows her to create a relaxed and friendly environment where patients can be sure that they will receive consistently high-quality treatment.
When she’s not at work, Tosin enjoys travelling to new places and spending time with friends and family. She likes to keep fit at the gym and good food is also one of her passions, so she will happily indulge in a nice meal at a restaurant. Tosin loves music and plays the piano and alto saxophone.
Dr. Safiyah Hussain graduated from Peninsula Dental School. She is committed to her continued education in aesthetic dentistry and furthering her skills in applying a minimally invasive approach.
Safiyah is currently working towards her membership at the Royal College of Surgeons and is a certified Invisalign and facial aesthetics provider. She enables an informative and welcoming environment for patients to express their oral concerns, allowing them to begin their journey and achieve their confident smile.
She has a particular interest in treating anxious patients and putting them at ease. Safiyah is known for her calming approach and attention to detail, and enjoys all aspects of general dentistry.
Dr Sabreen Bedi graduated In Dentistry from Kings College London in 2017, havingentered through a selective and prestigious postgraduate course aftercompleting her BSc Biomedical Sciences. Sabreen ispassionate about dentistry and wants to make visits to the dentist as stress-free and rewarding aspossible. Her approach to dentistry focuses on creating a relaxing and safeenvironment for her patients, and guiding them towards better oral health..
Sabreen thoroughly enjoys improving her skills withpost graduate courses and working towards the gold standard. She is finishingher Masters in Aesthetic Dentistry at King’s College London, and completing aPost Graduate Diploma in Injectables in Facial Aesthetics. Sabreen has a keeninterest in Cosmetic Dentistry as well as Restorative Dentistry. Throughout hercareer, she has practiced in South London, Hastings, as well as volunteeredabroad in Ghana and the Philippines.
Outside ofdentistry Sabreen loves cooking, gardening, nature and traveling with her husband.She also enjoys origami, mindfulness and everything Japanese!
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