A bright and confident smile can work wonders in enhancing one's self-esteem and leaving a lasting impression. For those who desire a perfectly aligned set of teeth, orthodontic treatment is often the go-to solution. Invisalign, a revolutionary alternative to traditional braces, has gained immense popularity in recent years. This blog aims to delve into the advantages, disadvantages, procedure, and duration of Invisalign treatment, shedding light on why it is a preferred choice for many seeking orthodontic correction.
Advantages of Invisalign Treatment:
Aesthetic Appeal: One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its discreet appearance. The aligners are transparent and virtually invisible when worn, allowing you to undergo orthodontic treatment without drawing unnecessary attention to your teeth.
Comfort and Convenience: Unlike traditional braces with metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are made of smooth, comfortable plastic. This eliminates the risk of mouth sores or discomfort caused by protruding wires, providing a more pleasant treatment experience. Additionally, Invisalign aligners can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for greater flexibility and oral hygiene maintenance.
Predictable Results: Invisalign treatment utilises advanced computer imaging technology to create a personalised treatment plan. This allows patients to visualise the projected objectives of their treatment even before it begins. The clear aligners are custom-made to gradually shift teeth into their desired positions, resulting in predictable and precise results.
Fewer Orthodontic Visits: Unlike traditional braces that often require frequent adjustments, Invisalign treatment generally involves flexible orthodontic visits. Moreover, Invisalign requires almost no emergency appointment.
Disadvantages of Invisalign Treatment:
Compliance and Responsibility: Invisalign aligners must be worn for minimum 22 hours a day for effective results. Compliance and responsibility are essential to achieve the desired treatment steps. Failure to wear the aligners consistently may prolong the treatment duration or hinder the progress.
The Invisalign Treatment Procedure:
Consultation: The first step involves an initial consultation with an Invisalign-trained orthodontist. During this visit, the orthodontist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment goals, and determine whether Invisalign is the right option for you.
Treatment Planning: Using advanced 3D imaging technology, the orthodontist will create a customised treatment plan, mapping out the movement of your teeth from their current position to the desired alignment. You will be able to preview the projected outcome before starting the treatment.
Aligner Fabrication: Once the treatment plan is finalised, a series of clear, custom-made aligners will be fabricated specifically for you. Each set of aligners is typically worn for 9 to 14 days, gradually moving your teeth closer to the desired position.
Progress Monitoring: Regular check-ups will be scheduled to monitor your progress and provide you with new sets of aligners. These check-ups usually occur every four to six weeks, allowing the orthodontist to make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results.
Treatment Duration:
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the treatment goals. On average, treatment can last between 7 months for simple cases and 24-30 for complex cases (if the patient is compliant with his oral hygiene and wearing of the aligners).
CASE PRESENTATION
Here is an example of a case that was treated with invisalign in only 16 months. It is a teenager presented with agenesis.
This particular case was managed by Vicente González-Costa Muñoz, a highly skilled orthodontist with a distinguished international background spanning Spain, The Netherlands, and Belgium. He possesses extensive experience as a provider of Invisalign, a renowned orthodontic treatment.
In 1999, Vicente successfully completed his dental studies in Madrid and subsequently gained practical experience as a general dentist. With a strong inclination towards Oral Medicine and Preventive Dentistry, he pursued specialised training in Orthodontics through a postgraduate program.
Even prior to commencing his specialisation, Vicente demonstrated his dedication to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements by participating in one of the earliest Invisalign courses in Europe held in Zaragoza in 2000. During this period, he had the privilege of translating the inaugural edition of the "Invisalign Clinical Monitoring Guide" from English to Spanish.
In January 2002, Doctor Gonzalez-Costa achieved certification as an Invisalign provider, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey.
Vicente successfully completed his Orthodontics postgraduate program in Madrid in 2004. Since then, he has adeptly balanced his roles as a clinical practitioner and a university professor.
Throughout his career, Vicente has effectively treated numerous patients seeking clear aligner solutions, employing both Invisalign and other transparent orthodontic techniques.