Invisalign: Frequently asked questions

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign uses clear aligners that are customized and are robotically made to fit your teeth. At Gentle Dental we use 3D digital scanning technology to ensure the aligners fit perfectly. Our custom-made aligners are made in the US and are shipped to us for use.

Invisalign liners gently reposition your teeth into alignment by using a slightly tighter tray every two weeks. These trays can be removed to eat and can be easily cleaned.

How does Invisalign move your teeth?

Braces and Invisalign both work by putting pressure on the teeth to move them into the correct position. While traditional braces use wires and brackets to create pressure, Invisalign uses custom aligners that are just tight enough to pressure the teeth into moving.

This is why the aligning trays need to be changed every few weeks. Over time your teeth move enough to fit the new trays comfortably which means it’s now time to get a tighter tray to continue the alignment of the teeth.

Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?

No. Invisalign is not cheaper than traditional braces. Generally, the cost of Invisalign is determined by how many aligning trays you require. Invisalign can sometimes be twice as expensive as traditional braces. However, most people choose Invisalign for the look and feel of the treatment.

It’s not uncommon for people who have had braces in the past to re-correct their teeth with Invisalign. Invisalign can be a good option for people who are looking for a small correction to the alignment of their teeth and don’t have major misalignment issues.

What is better braces or Invisalign?

There is no major difference between the end result of your smile when choosing between braces or Invisalign. Braces can be a better option for teenagers and young adults as they are permanent, and some parents don’t want the added hassle of having to remind their children to wear their aligners.

Many adults choose Invisalign as they are transparent and they like that they are removable. However, Invisalign will work faster if the trays are worn consistently. Some people will find their Invisalign journey takes longer than expected because they aren’t wearing their aligners as much as they should. Consider whether you will wear your aligners for the prescribed amount of time before committing to Invisalign.

Braces can also be a better option for severely misaligned or overlapping teeth. Your dentist will be able to tell you whether Invisalign is right for your smile.  Check out our blog post on the pros of cons of braces and Invisalign here for an in-depth comparison.

Is Invisalign bad for your teeth?

No, Invisalign is not bad for your teeth. In some cases, braces are a better option, or a combination of braces and Invisalign may be recommended.

Which is better: Smile Direct or Invisalign?

As highly qualified dentists we always recommend that you see a dentist in person for any teeth realignment procedures. Services like Smile Direct rely on the patient to keep track of their progress which means misalignment issues have a higher chance of occurring.

Furthermore, a dentist may sometimes recommend the removal of teeth to ensure that once you start your braces or Invisalign treatment, your teeth won’t become overcrowded in your mouth. Smile Direct may be a better option for small realignment issues.

If you are interested in exploring whether Invisalign is the right option for your smile, book in now at one our practices in Wellington, Lower Hutt or Upper Hutt, to see one of our highly qualified dentists talk through a treatment plan.