Frequently Asked Questions - General
What is the Invisalign® System?
Invisalign is the virtually invisible way to straighten teeth without braces. The Invisalign System uses a combination of proprietary virtual modelling software, rapid manufacturing, mass customisation and virtually clear, removable ‘aligners’ to straighten teeth without metal or wires. The Invisalign system is prescribed to patients through trained Invisalign Orthodontists or Dentists, and only they can determine a patient’s suitability and exact treatment plan.
Does Invisalign really work?
Yes. In both clinical research and in orthodontic and dental practices around the world, Invisalign has been proven effective at straightening teeth. Over 1.4 million patients with a wide variety of dental challenges have been treated with Invisalign. Invisalign was developed with orthodontists and is used in more than 50 countries around the world.
Does Invisalign work as well as normal braces?
Invisalign has proven to be as effective at straightening teeth as traditional braces. The level of Invisalign experience will determine how an orthodontist or dentist decides how to treat a patient, be it with Invisalign or traditional braces. Patients with severe crowding or bite problems may require interdisciplinary treatments in which Invisalign is used in combination with other teeth straightening techniques.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made “aligners” are produced. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final desired position is achieved.
How much does Invisalign cost?
In most cases, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional braces. However as with other medical treatments, only your orthodontist or dentist can determine cost, based on your specific needs. In Australia, the average cost of treatment ranges from $6,000 - $8,500.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
There are four primary benefits of Invisalign:
- Invisalign is nearly invisible – you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
- Invisalign is removable – you can eat and drink what you want in treatment; you can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Invisalign is comfortable – there are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation: no metal or wires also means you spend less time in the doctor’s chair getting adjustments.
- Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start – so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
What are aligners made of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade non-toxic plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.
What do aligners look like?
Aligners are nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists have referred to them as “contact lenses for teeth”.
How long will treatment take?
The length of treatment is dependent on the severity of each individual patient’s orthodontic issues. Treatment may vary from anywhere between six months to two years with an average treatment taking around 12 to 14 months.
Is this a new way to straighten teeth?
For years, orthodontists have used removable appliances for limited treatment. Today, with the application of computer technology and mass-customised manufacturing, Invisalign is able to treat a broader range of orthodontic issues with greater precision.
How old is the company - Align Technology, Inc?
Align Technology, Inc., the company that manufactures Invisalign aligners, was founded in 1997. It is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange in the USA (Stock Code: ALGN). Invisalign is distributed and supported in Australia by Invisalign Australia Pty Ltd, an independent distributor.
How old is this technology?
In 1945 an American orthodontist Dr. H.D. Kesling envisioned that one day, modern technology would enable the use of a series of tooth positioners to produce the kinds of movements required for comprehensive orthodontic treatment. With Invisalign, this is now possible. Using advanced computer technology, Invisalign generates a series of customised “aligners”. Each aligner is worn sequentially by the patient to produce extensive tooth movements in both upper and lower arches.
How many patients are being treated with Invisalign?
Over 1.4 million patients worldwide have been treated with Invisalign and the number grows daily. Invisalign was launched in Australia in February 2002 and already over one thousand Australian orthodontists and dentists have been trained to treat patients with Invisalign.
Do orthodontists and dentists need special training in order to use Invisalign?
While Invisalign can be used with virtually any treatment philosophy, specific training is needed. All orthodontists and dentists interested in treating patients with Invisalign must attend a training course before a patients records can be submitted to Align Technology.
How does Invisalign effectively move teeth?
Like brackets and arch wires, the Invisalign aligner moves teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. With each aligner, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular aligner. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
