Let’s face it, most adults looking to wear braces don’t want to be seen sporting metallic ‘train-track’ style orthodontic appliances. As a result that rules out many types of full-term and fast orthodontic treatment. What’s more, when most people think of orthodontic appliances they tend not to think of discreet or invisible braces UK – yet that’s exactly what Invisalign offers adult patients. So what are they and how do they work?

Invisalign is in fact a fully removable, clear acrylic aligner-style brace system which is designed to be worn over the teeth like an invisible gum shield. Rather than one singular appliance that’s worn for the whole duration of the treatment, Invisalign aligners are meant to be removed and replaced every two weeks (just like throw-away contact lenses). Not only this, they’re also designed to be taken out every time you eat, drink, or clean your teeth. Ultimately this means that the patient has full control over when they wear their invisible braces UK and is not restricted in any way by wearing them.

So how do they straighten teeth?

Most conventional full-term braces and fast orthodontic treatment utilise a series or brackets and self-tensioning wiring. Over time the wiring which is threaded through the brackets tightens and moves the teeth by applying sustained but gentle pressure. While Invisalign offers patients this same sustained forced movement, it’s done in a completely different way.

As there are no brackets and wiring, tooth movement is carried out by the clear aligner itself. Each aligner (also known as a tray) is unique and is designed to fit the patient’s teeth with each one maintaining a slightly tighter fit. As each tray is worn the teeth are moved sufficiently enough, so that when the two weeks are up, the next tray in the series fits. Typically each tray moves the teeth just one quarter of a millimetre. This inter-changing of aligners continues until the teeth have reached perfect alignment. This can take anywhere between 9-18 months depending upon the severity of the condition, but can take longer.

So what are the advantages?

Of course the main advantage that Invisalign offers patients is complete and total discretion. Because there are no visible brackets and wiring, the appliance can’t be seen when you smile or speak. This is why they’re commonly known as invisible braces. UK patients may also be pleased to know that because they’re designed to be fully removable, they have full control of when and where they wear them. If for example you’ve got a meeting, a family gathering, or even a date and don’t really want to be wearing them, then you don’t have to. That said, it should be noted that for best effect they need to be worn for at least 20 hours a day. Finally because Invisalign braces are a full-term treatment and not a quick fix short-term fast orthodontic treatment, they can help with a wide number of dental problems.

To find out more information about invisible braces UK and how they can help you restore your great looking smile, contact Church Road Dental and Cosmetics on 0161 660 1218 and talk to Shi Karim and the team who can help.