Inverleith Dentalcare
9 Important Questions People Ask About Invisalign Teeth Straightening

Before committing to undertake tooth straightening treatment, there are 9 important questions people ask about Invisalign teeth straightening.
Do I have to wear “train track” braces to align my teeth?
As technology develops more and more issues that required fixed wire braces can now be tackled successfully with clear aligner systems such as Invisalign. For certain changes you may need the addition of a wire or even a temporary implant(s) to brace against especially if you have limited teeth at the back.
For minor changes, you may be able to use speed brace systems such as Inman Aligners. That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced dentist who can offer you several options rather than “one size fits all.”
How does Invisalign® clear aligner system straighten teeth?
Invisalign® works in the same way as a traditional brace, applying constant, precise pressure on each tooth to produce the desired movement. You must wear the aligners throughout the day and night, only removing them when eating and cleaning. After every fortnight you move on to the next aligner in the sequence bringing you closer to the end result.
Do I have to wear the Invisalign® clear aligner for the whole day?
The system is designed to be a gentle tooth-moving process that causes little discomfort. To achieve this, it must make small movements and requires you to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day.
Don’t worry—it’s transparent and difficult to see when you’re wearing it. It has a minor effect on speech. You’ll probably notice a slight lisp for the first few days, but as you persevere, this should disappear.
How often do I need to see the dentist?
It helps to have regular supervision, at least in the early days. We review you every 4-6 weeks to begin with to ensure that you are on track. We may need to open up some space for your teeth to move into.
How long will it take?
Whilst you may finish as quickly as 12 weeks the majority of treatments take 12-18 months to achieve the desired result. If you want it to be comfortable and not intrusive on your lifestyle, you need it to make small changes at a time.
Remember, there are other options which can be used as a combination in certain cases. Why not discuss these with your dentist
Are there any other benefits of Invisalign teeth straightening?
Invisalign teeth straightening is a conservative treatment and does not usually require teeth to be removed, as can be the case with fixed braces.
You don’t need to commit to a big treatment plan. You may choose to stop after teeth straightening or go onto the next step and also whiten your teeth. If there are teeth you don’t like the shape of, you may choose to have cosmetic bonding applied to them to make the shape more pleasing. Basically, you control how far you want to go. Our dentists will show you many examples of what kind of outcomes they have achieved to help you make decisions on what you want to do.
As you can take aligners out means it’s much easier to clean your teeth with than a fixed brace. It also means you can remove them, if you wish, for a special occasion or meeting.
Aligning teeth makes it easier to clean between them, allowing teeth to last longer and, of course, helping you maintain fresh breath.
How much does Invisalign® teeth straightening cost?
The fee for the treatment is based on how much change has to be created to align your teeth. This will determine how long it will take and, consequently, how many clear aligners will be needed to achieve this.
As part of the process, our experienced dentists will discuss more economical solutions (provided it is appropriate to the result that you looking to achieve).
To make it more affordable, you will also have the opportunity to discuss methods of spreading the fees over a period of time to work within your budget.
Is teeth straightening available on the NHS?
Invisalign teeth straightening isn’t available on the NHS. It is considered a cosmetic treatment that creates a more attractive smile.
Can Invisalign trays be used to protect your teeth against nighttime grinding due to stress?
Invisalign trays are thin and optimally designed for moving teeth. However, the excessive pressure created when you grind or clench your teeth may damage these trays over time. If you are concerned about grinding or clenching, please speak with one of our dentists. They are very experienced in treating these issues and can discuss the many solutions available to you.
Contact Us
If you would like to find out more, please contact our team by calling 0131 552 4830 or emailing info@inverleithdentalcare.co.uk.
To book a consultation, you can use our direct online booking system by clicking here.
We look forward to welcoming you to Inverleith Dentalcare.
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Inverleith Dentalcare
25 Inverleith Row
Edinburgh
EH3 5QH
Monday
8:00am – 7:00pm
Tuesday
8:00am – 6:00pm
Wednesday
8:00am – 7:00pm
Thursday
8:00am – 6:00pm
Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
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