Invisalign - The invisible braces

Invisalign or Braces?

The Invisalign process represents a comfortable and efficient method of orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces in Lucerne, which are commonly used in the form of metal brackets during adolescence. Invisalign also offers adults the opportunity to correct their dental alignment without the need for noticeable braces. It involves the use of removable, transparent aligners. This modern and well-tested alternative to conventional braces can straighten teeth both gently and precisely.

Invisalign: Overview of treatment for dental misalignments

The term Invisalign is a portmanteau created from the English words "invisible" and "align." Aligners used for correcting dental misalignments are also known as aligners. Invisalign in Lucerne refers to removable and transparent plastic aligners. These are customized to meet the individual needs of patients and can correct various types of misalignments.

The nearly invisible braces were developed by the American company Align Technology. Invisalign is now used in 45 countries worldwide, supported by 9 million successful Invisalign treatments globally, evidencing the positive patient experiences.

A key feature of the transparent aligners is their custom fabrication using 3D scanning. The precise production of the aligners is specifically tailored to the treatment requirements and the particular characteristics of the misalignments being addressed. A unique aspect of Invisalign treatment in Lucerne is the 3D modeling of the desired outcome. Patients can see the anticipated result as a 3D model even before the treatment begins, allowing for individual adjustments to be made in advance..

The Alternative to Braces

Braces have been a tried and tested orthodontic treatment method for many decades, capable of correcting jaw misalignments from an early age. Traditionally, this treatment for adolescents involves the use of metal brackets that are glued to the tooth enamel. This early intervention can correct misalignments and potentially prevent future dental positioning issues. Without treatment, dental or jaw misalignments can develop, which are not only medically problematic but can also affect the self-esteem of those involved.

However, many adults are deterred by the idea of wearing traditional braces in their daily lives. They seek alternatives that contribute to a beautiful smile.

As a transparent and removable dental aligner, Invisalign offers an orthodontic method that is nearly invisible. Invisalign is a widely tested and modern alternative to conventional braces. Thanks to the use of the latest 3D software and advanced plastic technology, Invisalign provides a gentle yet precise alternative.

How Invisalign technology works

Invisalign braces fall into the category of aligners. An aligner is a custom-made, thin plastic dental tray. These are removable trays designed using 3D modeling. Following an orthodontic diagnosis, aligner sets are created using 3D technology. The uniqueness lies in the modern, almost transparent plastic from which the aligners are made. Invisalign treatments are suitable for addressing everything from mild to complex dental misalignments.

The transparent plastic trays are used in a series of sets, each tailored to the dental pattern. Each Invisalign set is intended to be worn for about 1 to 2 weeks before being replaced by the next set. Patients wear the aligner sets in a specified sequence and change them according to medical advice. The aligners exert gentle pressure, gradually and gently correcting the dental misalignment.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign not only controls the extent of movement with each aligner but also the timing of the movement. This allows the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws of the patient to be gradually moved until the desired level of correction or alignment is achieved.

The treatment continues until the desired and discussed final result is achieved. The number of required sets depends on the degree of misalignment. The treatment duration also varies accordingly. Typically, an Invisalign treatment can last anywhere from 3 to 18 months.

Invisalign and its advantages

As one of the most popular methods for correcting dental misalignments, Invisalign comes with several advantages over traditional braces. These benefits are particularly appreciated by adults, but the invisible braces are also suitable for children and teenagers.

Improved comfort compared to fixed braces

Invisalign aligners are significantly more comfortable for patients to wear than fixed braces. Invisalign eliminates the need for brackets and metal wires, which can often lead to irritation. Thanks to the gentle plastic material, irritations in the oral cavity are unlikely. The Invisalign tray hardly interferes with daily life, and its custom fit ensures high wearing comfort. Another advantage of the precise manufacturing is that it barely affects the wearer's speech. However, patients should expect an adjustment period at the beginning of treatment. Invisalign wearers quickly get used to the slight tension felt when wearing a new set.

Removable aligners

A major advantage is the flexibility provided by the removable aligners. Fixed braces can be inconvenient during activities like eating or oral hygiene. Invisalign trays can be easily removed at any time, allowing unrestricted participation in such activities. It's recommended to brush teeth thoroughly after eating before reinserting the aligner. It's important to remember that the aligner only functions effectively when worn for the majority of the day, so they should not be removed for more than 2 hours a day.

Care and hygiene

Invisalign offers a hygiene advantage over traditional braces. Food particles can accumulate behind the metal components of fixed braces with brackets, and such braces pose a challenge for dental care. Obstacles like brackets or wires make cleaning difficult. These problems are eliminated with Invisalign since the tray can be easily removed at any time. Patients can maintain their regular oral hygiene during treatment. The aligners themselves are easy to clean by rinsing and brushing after removal. For tougher stains or discoloration, Invisalign offers special cleaning crystals.

Transparency: virtually invisible aligners

The special medical-grade high-tech plastic makes the aligners virtually invisible in everyday life. The transparent material is barely noticeable, allowing for a radiant and natural smile even while wearing the Invisalign braces. Onlookers won't realize at first glance that an orthodontic treatment is underway.

Even more inconspicuous are lingual braces, where metal brackets are attached to the inside of the teeth. However, these do not offer the comfort and hygiene benefits of Invisalign.

3D Modeling with computer assistance

3D technology, with its modern scanning and imaging techniques, allows for precise modeling of the treatment. Dentists can show their patients a comprehensive computer simulation that includes all treatment steps, demonstrating the expected results over the treatment period. Furthermore, patients have the opportunity to contribute to the outcome. The visual graphics can be adjusted to some extent according to personal preferences.

The treatment process with expert consultation

Consultation and preliminary considerations

Before the actual treatment begins, there is a thorough and comprehensive consultation with the orthodontist. During this consultation, the doctor outlines the possibilities offered by Invisalign treatment, explains the treatment process, and discusses costs. Patients have the opportunity to discuss their individual treatment goals. It's also important to have a caries examination and professional dental cleaning done within the last three months before starting treatment.

Planning and preparation

During the planning phase, orthodontists conduct a detailed examination of the patients. This involves various methods including photographs, X-rays, and 3D imaging techniques. Based on these examinations, a treatment plan is formulated, defining the treatment goal. The plan is finalized after measuring the teeth.

Specifying the treatment: ClinCheck

The ClinCheck software, specific to the Invisalign process, is used to specify tooth corrections. This software shows the orthodontist and the patient the planned dental corrections in a digital animation. Once the patient is satisfied, the aligners are ordered. The final result, treatment duration, and the number of required aligner sets are discussed with the treating doctor. The aligners are then provided in several sets, numbered and replaced approximately every two weeks.

Preparation and insertion of the aligner trays

This phase aims to create the conditions for successful Invisalign therapy. Any tight spaces between the teeth are addressed, and attachments are placed on the teeth as needed according to the treatment plan, remaining in place throughout the treatment. These attachments help to direct the movement of the teeth in the desired direction.

This session concludes with the insertion of the first Invisalign trays. The orthodontist then discusses with the patients how to properly handle and care for the Invisalign braces, including aspects such as wear time and maintenance.

In some cases, the orthodontist may give the patient the next set of aligners to change independently after the instructed wear time of the first set. This appointment typically takes about two hours for patients.

Wearing and changing the aligner trays

Patients then wear the aligners independently and continuously. It is recommended to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day, removing them only for activities such as eating, drinking, or oral hygiene. The number of aligners depends on the degree of the dental misalignment being treated. On average, patients need about 20 aligners per jaw.

Interim checks of treatment success

Regular check-ups are scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the treatment to monitor progress. Any potential application errors are corrected. Patients should bring their current aligner as well as the one from the previous interval to the check-up appointments, which usually last no more than 15 to 30 minutes.

Post-treatment

As with most orthodontic treatments, the teeth need to be stabilized after the therapy is completed. Therefore, a so-called retainer is used after the dental correction to maintain the teeth in their new position. The retainer may take the form of a small wire placed on the inside of the teeth or as fixed trays to be worn at night.