Invisalign
Melbourne

Invisalign is an cosmetic dental treatment designed to straighten teeth through a discreet and convenient process. Using a series of clear aligners that are typically worn for 22 hours a day, teeth are gradually guided into their intended position.

Because these clear aligners are designed to be removable, patients can continue to eat, brush, and floss as usual. This makes clear aligner therapy a flexible and hygienic orthodontic option for those seeking a discreet method of teeth straightening.

Clear aligner therapy is an cosmetic dental option for many patients, though it is not suitable for everyone. It is commonly utilised to address dental alignment concerns, including crowded teeth and spacing (gaps).

Clear aligners can also be used to manage various clinical concerns, such as:

• Crowded or crooked teeth.

• Spacing and gaps.

• Specific types of malocclusion, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

For more complex dental concerns, alternative or supplementary orthodontic treatments may be required. This is why a comprehensive clinical assessment at our Melbourne clinic is essential. Our dental team will evaluate your oral health and anatomy to determine if clear aligners are an appropriate option for your specific needs.

Comprehensive Aesthetic Planning While clear aligners focus on the position of your teeth, they do not change the colour or shape of individual teeth. To address these aspects, your practitioner may discuss restorative options such as professional whitening or porcelain veneers during your consultation.

There are several clinical and lifestyle factors to consider when choosing clear aligners as part of your aesthetic treatment plan.

Sensation and Comfort When transitioning to a new set of aligners, it is common to feel temporary tension as the teeth begin to shift. This sensation typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours. Many patients find the smooth surface of clear aligners a suitable alternative to the brackets and wires used in traditional orthodontic methods.

A Discreet Appearance Clear aligner therapy is designed to be a discreet orthodontic option. Because the trays are transparent, they are less noticeable than conventional appliances. This is often a preferred choice for adult patients seeking a more subtle treatment process. The aligners can also be removed for short periods during significant events.

Oral Hygiene and Maintenance A primary benefit of clear aligners is that they are removable, allowing you to maintain your regular diet and oral hygiene routine. Unlike fixed appliances, you can remove the trays to brush and floss thoroughly, which supports healthy gums and teeth during treatment. It is essential to clean both your teeth and the aligners after eating before re-inserting them.

Clinical Alignment When worn for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day, clear aligners are used to address concerns such as overbites, underbites, gaps, and crowding. This process aims to achieve a more aligned dental structure through a planned clinical sequence.

If clear aligner therapy is determined to be a suitable treatment option for you, we will provide a detailed treatment plan including a full breakdown of all associated fees. We prioritise clear financial communication and offer a variety of flexible payment plan options to assist with the management of treatment costs.

Clear aligner therapy involves the application of consistent, gentle pressure to transition your teeth. It is common to experience some temporary sensitivity or soreness for a few days following the fitting of a new set of aligners.

The custom-designed trays are manufactured with a smooth finish to minimize irritation to the gums and cheeks. During your clinical reviews at our Melbourne clinic, our dental practitioners will provide guidance on managing any temporary sensitivity. Most patients find that they adjust to the sensation of the aligners within a short period, allowing the treatment to integrate into their daily routine.

Invisalign is a clinically established orthodontic treatment designed to align teeth through a planned sequence of movements. When performed under the supervision of a dental practitioner, the procedure is designed to protect the integrity of healthy teeth. Our experienced dental team carefully plans each stage of the process to work toward the intended clinical outcome.

Allergies and Contraindications

While clear aligners are a suitable option for many, they may not be appropriate for everyone. In rare instances, individuals may experience sensitivity or an allergic response to the medical-grade plastic used in the aligners. If you have a known history of material allergies or have concerns regarding suitability, please contact our South Yarra clinic for a clinical consultation.

Yes, you should wear your clear aligners while you sleep. To support the intended clinical outcome, it is recommended to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. Wearing them overnight ensures the continuous, gentle pressure required to facilitate the gradual alignment process.

Following a comprehensive assessment with one of our dental practitioners, you will receive an individualised treatment plan. This document will outline the projected timeframe for your treatment, as well as any restorative dental work required to ensure your oral health is optimized before beginning clear aligner therapy.

While the duration of treatment varies for every patient, clear aligner therapy typically spans a period of up to 18 months.

Clear aligners offer the flexibility to enjoy your favourite foods, provided specific clinical guidelines are followed. You should remove the aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with the aligners in can lead to staining or dental decay, as food debris and sugars can become trapped against the tooth surface. Furthermore, the aligners may sustain structural damage if subjected to the pressure of chewing. To support your oral health, it is essential to brush your teeth after every meal before re-inserting the trays.

To support the seating of your aligners and the efficacy of your treatment, Invisalign “chewies” may be utilized. These soft, medical-grade plastic cylinders are designed to eliminate any gaps between your teeth and the aligners. By ensuring a close fit, they assist the aligners in providing the consistent pressure required to move your teeth toward their intended position.

To maintain the clarity and hygiene of your clear aligners, they should be cleaned every evening. We recommend rinsing them with lukewarm water and using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a mild, non-abrasive cleaning agent. It is important to use a separate brush from the one used for your teeth to prevent the transfer of bacteria.

During your appointment at our South Yarra clinic, our dental team will provide specific clinical recommendations on suitable cleaning solutions and maintenance protocols to support your oral health throughout the treatment.

Maintaining your results after clear aligner therapy is an essential part of your treatment. To prevent orthodontic relapse (where teeth shift toward their former positions), the use of a retainer is required.

Initially, you will be advised to wear your retainer nightly to support the stabilisation of your teeth in their new alignment. The duration of this initial phase is determined by your dental practitioner based on your individual clinical needs. For long-term stability, our team recommends continued, long-term retainer use as directed to ensure your alignment is maintained throughout your life.

Clear aligner therapy is a clinical option for patients of various ages, provided they meet specific oral health and developmental criteria. Suitability is determined during a comprehensive clinical assessment with our dental practitioners.

Clear Aligners for Younger Patients

Clear aligner therapy is generally considered once the permanent teeth have erupted and the jaw has reached an appropriate stage of development. This treatment requires a commitment to wearing the aligners for 22 hours per day. If a younger patient’s dental development is not yet suitable for aligners, our team may suggest alternative orthodontic monitoring or treatments.

Clear Aligners for Adults

Clear aligners provide a discreet and removable alternative to traditional fixed appliances. This approach is often chosen by adult patients who require a treatment that integrates into their professional and personal routines. While the aligners are removable, regular clinical reviews at our South Yarra clinic are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the health of your teeth and gums throughout the process.