For many, smiling without being self-conscious is a luxury that they feel unable to enjoy. Misaligned teeth are a common dental problem all over the world, and this condition was usually treated by an uncomfortable and cumbersome metal brace. This dental appliance worked, but was not the most attractive appliance to have attached to a patient’s teeth, especially an adult. Since the nineteen seventies, dental research had been looking for an alternative. It wasn’t until the nineteen eighties that a computer and economics graduate had a vision of an alternative clear type of teeth straightener. It took until nineteen ninety-seven, with the help of some other university friends, to create a workable prototype. At Bromley Dental Practice, we are proud to be able to provide dental teeth straightening using Invisalign in Bromley. This revolutionary treatment allows you to reveal the real person with a broad, confident smile.
Treating a variety of common dental conditions
Misaligned teeth can manifest in a variety of ways and are usually a hereditary condition. Crooked teeth or a crowded mouth are conditions that can cause some patients a great deal of anxiety, but they can be successfully treated. Overbites, under bites, cross bites and an open bite are more than just an aesthetic problem. All of these conditions can cause problems such as tooth decay, headaches and stomach problems. These conditions are referred to medically as malocclusions. Properly aligned teeth are when the top and bottom teeth meet when the mouth is closed, allowing you to chew your food properly. Misaligned teeth can be the ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which then cause tooth decay. Damage to the dental enamel and bad breath are also sometimes caused by these conditions.
Invisalign technology
Invisalign is more than just a dental straightener. The technology that has been developed around Invisalign provides much more than just a method to correct malocclusion. For years, the only way that a dentist could view a patient’s teeth roots was using an X-ray. That has all changed and Invisalign developed their own itero scanner which allows the dentist to take numerous images of the mouth and jaw. These images are then easily converted into 3D using Invisalign’s own Clincheck software. These images are then all combined to produce an image reflecting what your smile will look like after treatment. All this technology speeds up the process because it is digital, and the treatment plan can be created and sent to the Invisalign laboratory speedily. Invisalign does not work the same way as a conventional dental brace because it does not require blocks to be fitted to the front of the teeth. There are no wires and bands required to move the teeth into position. Invisalign looks more like a gumshield because it fits over the teeth and because it is made of a clear dental material it is virtually undetectable. This makes it the ideal treatment for young and old alike.
Invisalign in action
Using the computer technology created around Invisalign a series of gum shields, called trays, is created. Each one of these trays has a slightly different computer designed orientation. The trays must be worn for at least twenty-two hours per day but can be removed for cleaning, eating and drinking. In addition, each tray must be worn for between three and four weeks, depending on the condition and the progress. Once the full range of trays have been used, a final aligner will need to be worn for a few weeks to hold the teeth in their new position.
Reveal yourself
Once treatment is complete, you can reveal your beautiful new, confident smile to the world.
