For decades the dental industry has worked on developing various ways of correcting dental misalignments. Dentistry has a history reportedly going back thousands of years but it was only in the nineteen tens that oral hygiene was regarded as an important dental practice. Dental misalignments like overbites and underbites, crossbites and many others are often regarded as cosmetic problems. The truth of the matter is that dental misalignments are far more than just cosmetic conditions. The inability to chew properly can cause different medical conditions such as gastric issues and jaw strain to mention just a few. In the twenty-first century, we are therefore very fortunate to be able to benefit from all those decades of development and Invisalign Clapham is one of those developments.
The first line of defence
History has taught us that it is better to identify problems early so that we can act before a condition manifests and becomes a much bigger problem. It is therefore vitally important that children are introduced to dental surgeries as young as possible even if it is only accompanying their parents when they are attending an appointment. By doing this children will become familiar with the dental environment and not develop dental anxiety. It also gives the dental staff the opportunity to develop a relationship with the children allowing them to become comfortable in each other’s company. When the child has their first examination, the dentist will be able to identify any problems that may require early intervention to avoid later complications.
Correcting dental misalignments
Over the decades a variety of dental braces and aligners have been developed and the dental industry now has a variety of solutions for different conditions. The original metal brace with wires and bands has evolved into a far more comfortable and efficient apparatus. In addition, there are braces that are tooth coloured and which work slightly differently without the use of bands. There is even one type that fits on the inside of the teeth making it almost invisible and therefore more popular with adults. The latest innovation is the Invisalign aligner which adopts a different method and brings with it some of the latest technology.
Invisalign is a revolutionary concept
The Invisalign concept is based on a system that utilises a series of “trays” to gradually move the teeth into an aligned position. The “trays” resemble gum shields and fit over the teeth instead of onto the teeth. Utilising some of the most advanced hardware and software, the dentist is able to create a detailed image of the inside of the patient’s mouth. This information is fed, digitally, to a laboratory where the information is analysed and an exclusive treatment plan is created. Based on this information a series of trays is created and at this stage a virtual image of what the patient’s teeth will look like at the end of the treatment is created. The patient can see a virtual view of what the result of the treatment will look like.The trays are created from a clear dental material making them inconspicuous.
Invisalign simple and comfortable treatment
Once the first “tray” is fitted it must be worn for around three weeks and for not less than twenty two hours per day. It can be removed to allow for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. As each new tray is fitted the dentist will assess the progress of the treatment. Each tray has a slightly different orientation and will gradually ease the teeth into the desired position.
Invisalign treatment completion
At the end of the treatment a final aligner will need to be worn for a few weeks to allow the teeth to settle. Once the dentist has given the all clear it is possible to face the world with a wonderful, confident and radiant smile.
