Invisalign and Angel Align Cairns
Bringing You Closer to a Straighter Smile
Traditional braces are good at fixing teeth, but they also come with a lot of disadvantages.
They’re big and noticeable, their brackets can cut the inside of your lips and cheeks, they prevent you from flossing, and food can easily get stuck on brackets and wires.
So, what if you could get the benefit of straight teeth without any of the disadvantages for traditional braces? Enter ClearCorrect and Invisalign. At Cairns Precision Dental Group, we offer both of these orthodontic treatments to help our clients smile with confidence.
Alternatives to Traditional Braces
What Is Invisalign & How Is It Different To Traditional Braces?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into their desired position. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable to wear and can be easily removed for eating, brushing and flossing. Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each patient using advanced 3D imaging technology, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit.
There are numerous benefits to choosing Invisalign as your orthodontic treatment option, including:
- Discreet appearance, making them a popular choice for patients who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment.
- Aligners are made of smooth plastic less likely to cause irritation or discomfort to the gums and cheeks compared to traditional metal braces.
- The aligners are removable, making it easy to maintain good oral hygiene and eat or speak without restriction.
- Invisalign is custom-made for each patient, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit.
- The treatment typically requires fewer office visits compared to traditional braces, as there are no adjustments or wire changes required.
- In many cases, Invisalign treatment can be completed faster than traditional braces, as long as patients wear the aligners as directed.
Our Invisalign Treatment Process
At Cairns Precision Dental Group, we offer a comprehensive Invisalign treatment process that includes the following steps:
Step 1 - Initial Consultation: During your first appointment, our orthodontist will examine your teeth and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you. If Invisalign is suitable for your needs, we’ll take digital impressions of your teeth using our advanced 3D scanner.
Step 2 - Custom Aligners: Using the digital impressions of your teeth, we’ll create a customised treatment plan and a series of clear aligners that are designed to gradually shift your teeth into their desired position. Each set of aligners will be worn for approximately two weeks before moving onto the next set.
Step 3 - Aligner Fitting: Once your custom aligners are ready, we’ll schedule an appointment to fit your first set of aligners. Our orthodontist will show you how to wear and care for your aligners properly.
Step 4 - Treatment Progress Checks: During your Invisalign treatment, we’ll book regular check-ups to monitor your progress and ensure your treatment is proceeding as planned. We may also make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
Step 5 - Final Results: Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, we’ll provide you with a retainer to wear to maintain your new smile. With proper care and maintenance, your Invisalign results can last a lifetime.
How Long Will Treatment Take to Complete?
The duration of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the complexity of your case and your specific orthodontic needs. On average, Invisalign treatment takes between 6 to 18 months, but some cases may take longer. During your initial consultation, our orthodontist will provide you with a personalised treatment plan and an estimated timeline for your treatment.
Signs Invisalign is Right for You
Invisalign is a suitable treatment option for many patients, including those who have mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as crooked or crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, or underbites. Invisalign aligners are particularly popular with adults who want to straighten their teeth discreetly and comfortably.
Invisalign can fix a variety of common orthodontic issues, including:
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Widely spaced teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Open bites
- Gaps between teeth
Invisalign can also be used for minor orthodontic issues or as a cosmetic treatment to improve the appearance of teeth. However, it’s important to consult with an experienced orthodontist to determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for your specific needs.
Dr. Hasi Thambugala – Invisalign
Dr. Hasi Thambugala:
You don’t need metal or wires to straighten your teeth. Thanks to the revolutionary orthodontic treatment method that is Invisalign, you can achieve a beautiful smile without anyone knowing you’re having treatment.
By combining 21st-century orthodontic technology with precision and accuracy, our orthodontists can customise an Invisalign treatment plan for you. Invisalign aligners work by moving your teeth into a straighter, more attractive position. This happens gradually over the course of your treatment and without anyone knowing. Because the aligners are virtually invisible, no one will be able to tell you’re having treatment.
You will need to change to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, which builds on the work of the previous set. At your orthodontic appointments, you will be given sufficient aligners to last 8 to 10 weeks.
Every person has a unique set of teeth and a unique orthodontic problem to solve. This means the time treatment takes depends on the severity of your orthodontic problem. Invisalign is a highly successful treatment method which can correct a range of issues. If you need minor corrections, you could see results in as little as three months. Major orthodontic work with Invisalign takes approximately 12 to 18 months.
What are the Potential Benefits of Clear Aligners
Systems like Invisalign and ClearCorrect have a number of advantages over traditional braces:
- Discreet Treatment: Because they are clear, they are almost undetectable. This makes it a perfect solution for adults in customer-facing jobs or teenagers who are concerned with how braces look.
- Comfort: No metal and no wires ensure that clear aligners are comfortable for the user. They also require fewer adjustments than traditional braces.
- Ease of Cleaning: Metal braces can make it very hard to brush your teeth – and almost impossible to floss – which is why electric toothbrushes and oral irrigators are often recommended. Clear aligners are removable, so you can continue brushing and flossing as normal.
- Less Risk: Moving a tooth requires force, and clear aligners are no different. One of the risks is root resorption, which refers to a breakdown of the root of a tooth and can lead to the tooth's loss. The force applied by clear aligners is more gradual and nuanced than traditional braces, which could lead to a lower rate of root resorption.
-
Safer on Teeth: A traditional brace’s brackets has to be glued to the face of the tooth. This can lead to some of the tooth’s enamel layer to be removed when the brackets are taken off. Clear aligners use no adhesives, and pose no risk of enamel damage.
Dr. Kaitlyn Watson – Angel Align
Dr. Kaitlyn Watson
Much like Invisalign, Angel Align is a series of removable, clear plastic aligners that gently guide your teeth into their ideal positions by applying consistent, light pressure over time. This method mirrors the principles of traditional braces, but with a more discreet, modern approach.
Compared to wires and brackets, Angel Align aligners can offer a clean, comfortable, and almost invisible way to straighten your smile. Since the aligners are removable, you can enjoy your meals without restrictions and maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine with ease.
If you’ve been thinking about invisible aligners such as Invisalign or Angel Align, we invite you to book a complimentary orthodontic consultation to explore your options. Call us on
(07) 4054 2203 to get started.
Cleaning Your Invisalign
Maintaining the cleanliness of your Invisalign aligners is crucial not only for oral hygiene but also to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable, which makes them easier to clean. However, this also means they can accumulate bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Here are some steps to ensure your aligners remain pristine:
- Rinse Regularly: Every time you remove your aligners, rinse them under lukewarm water to wash away saliva and any loose particles.
- Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush the aligners. Avoid using toothpaste as some can be abrasive and might scratch the aligners.
- Soak for Deep Cleaning: Once a day, soak your aligners in a denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals for a deep clean.
- Avoid Coloured or Scented Soaps: These can leave a residue on the aligners, which might affect the taste in your mouth or discolour the aligners.
- Keep Them Safe: When not in use, store your aligners in their protective case to prevent them from getting lost or dirty.
Contact Us Today to Book an Appointment
If you’re interested in improving your smile with Invisalign, don’t hesitate to contact Cairns Precision Dental Group today. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to help you book an appointment with our experienced orthodontist.
Don’t let crooked or misaligned teeth hold you back from achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Get in touch today to schedule your Invisalign consultation and take the first step towards a confident and healthy smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Invisalign suitable for me?
Invisalign is a versatile orthodontic solution designed to address a variety of dental misalignments. It’s particularly popular among adults and teenagers who are looking for a discreet alternative to traditional braces. Whether you have mild spacing issues, moderate crowding, or more complex cases involving overbites, underbites, or crossbites, Invisalign might be a suitable option. However, the best way to determine its suitability is through a detailed consultation with our orthodontic specialist at Cairns Precision Dental Group. They will assess your dental structure, understand your concerns, and recommend the best course of action.
Do I need to wear Invisalign 24/7?
While Invisalign offers the flexibility of being removable, for effective treatment, it’s crucial to wear the aligners for about 20-22 hours a day. This ensures that your teeth move to their desired positions within the projected timeline. You should ideally remove them only for meals, beverages (other than water) and your oral hygiene routine. Consistency in wearing your aligners will lead to more predictable and faster results.
How often do I need to visit Cairns Precision Dental Group during my treatment?
Regular visits are an integral part of the Invisalign treatment process. Typically, you’d be scheduled for a check-up every six to eight weeks. These visits allow our orthodontist to monitor the movement of your teeth, ensure the aligners fit correctly, and address any concerns you might have. Additionally, you’ll receive your next set of aligners during these visits. Remember, consistent check-ups ensure that your treatment stays on track and any potential issues are addressed promptly.
Are there dietary restrictions when wearing Invisalign?
One of the significant advantages of Invisalign is the freedom it offers in terms of diet. Since the aligners are removable, you can eat and drink whatever you like. However, it’s essential to remove the aligners before consuming any food or drink (except water) to prevent staining or damage. After meals, it’s a good practice to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth before placing the aligners back to maintain oral hygiene and the cleanliness of the aligners.
Is Invisalign covered by dental insurance?
Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for orthodontic treatments and Invisalign might be included. The extent of coverage can vary based on your specific insurance policy. Some plans might cover a percentage of the treatment cost, while others might offer a fixed amount. It’s advisable to contact your insurance provider directly or check your policy details to understand the coverage better. Additionally, our team at Cairns Precision Dental Group can assist you in understanding the financial aspects and provide guidance on maximising your insurance benefits.
