How does Invisalign treatment work?

One of the first questions we get asked at Clapham South Dental Centre is: “How does Invisalign Clapham work?” This question comes as no surprise to us as Invisalign Clapham is completely different in design and its approach to the teeth-straightening process than the familiar traditional braces. This new approach to correcting teeth positioning has opened up an array of possibilities never encountered before on a teeth-straightening journey. invisalign-clapham

We are proud to be a modern dental practice, not only in our approach to offering quality patient care, but also in the efficacious range of treatment plans we offer such as Invisalign Clapham. Invisalign has been in use for a while now, but there are still many aspects of the treatment method that people have questions about. This is why we have decided to discuss some of those aspects here such as how Invisalign works, what are its key benefits and what you should know before starting on a treatment plan.

The way Invisalign works

Invisalign has changed the way we think and approach the teeth-straightening process. Where once the mainstay of the teeth-straightening process consisted of traditional braces, the orthodontics market now has embraced a varied range of teeth-correcting devices that show off forward-thinking designs.

The aim behind Invisalign was to offer patients an easier, more comfortable, less intrusive way to improve their dental appearance for a better-looking smile. Towards this aim, the creators behind Invisalign looked to SmartTrack technology and custom-tailored medical-grade thermoplastic material.

The SmartTrack technology focuses on shifting teeth into desirable positions through gradual, controlled movements. A treatment comprises a set number of aligner trays that need to be worn in the correct sequence. Each tray has been purposefully designed to place gentle pressure on teeth to move them into desired alignment.

The SmartTrack technology is intuitive so there is no need for a dental practitioner to make manual adjustments as is required with traditional orthodontic systems.

What are the positives to using Invisalign?

There is no denying that the benefits offered by Invisalign provide another exciting aspect to this treatment plan. Many challenges that are usually linked to the teeth-straightening process no longer apply to Invisalign.

Take the dietary restrictions that one would expect when receiving orthodontic care. Patients on traditional devices are urged to avoid certain food types to reduce the chances of damage to metal components. And of course there are the challenges of time and energy in cleaning the mouth afterwards.

Being able to remove the aligners before eating and cleaning teeth certainly makes life easier for adult patients who have many demands on their time.

Another huge plus is that Invisalign’s aligners are very discreet thanks to the clear thermoplastic material. They are barely discernible when worn making Invisalign a top choice for professionals in people-facing jobs and when attending special events,

Factors to consider before choosing Invisalign

To reap the benefits of Invisalign, following our dentist’s guidelines for use is non-negotiable. The aligners must be changed according to the prescribed interval change schedule. Also compulsory is wearing the aligners for the minimum amount of time prescribed. This would be a minimum of 22 hours in a day.

Also important is ensuring the aligners are safely stored when not in use. For this, there are special dedicated storage containers.

It is always best to know as much as possible about a treatment plan before agreeing to it. Schedule a consultation with us at Clapham South Dental Centre to determine if Invisalign is the right treatment plan for you.

Clear braces: get your smile sorted without being in the limelight

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a celebrity, you’ve probably imagined getting lots of attention, signing autographs and posing for photos with delighted fans. The thought of people giving you lots of attention because you have misaligned teeth may not be part of that dream. If this is your reality, however, feeling that people notice your crossbite, over or underbite, crowded or gapped teeth, then there are plenty of discreet treatment options at Clapham South Dental Centre, where we can help you to get a beautiful A-lister smile. One of our clear braces Clapham options is Invisalign. Invisalign is a system made up of removable aligners that are virtually invisible, when they are being worn. The aligners are made of transparent plastic, so other people should only notice your teeth as you are wearing them. clear-braces-clapham

How do the aligners work?

Aligners are different to other clear braces Clapham in that they don’t need to be fixed to the teeth. In fact, the aligners may be removed for up to 2 hours daily. When they are being worn over the teeth, they apply a gentle force to push the teeth into the desired position. We will provide you with batches of aligners to last for 6 weeks, and you will need to change your aligners every couple of weeks, before coming to see our dentist for a check-up.

How long will it take to see results?

We have various ranges of Invisalign aligners: Invisalign Lite is for mild alignment issues and can get results in as little as 6 months. Invisalign Teen has special features designed purely for young people, and Invisalign is for adults. These treatments typically get results in just 6 to 18 months.

Bespoke for you

Invisalign’s aligners are made to measure your mouth precisely, because we use iTero technology to digitally scan your mouth and obtain the measurements to have your aligners created for you in the Invisalign laboratory. This should allow your aligners to fit comfortably in your mouth and sit on the gum line.

Convenience and practicality

The great thing about Invisalign, aside from the fact that the aligners are virtually invisible, is that you can remove them when you are eating and cleaning your teeth. This means that you won’t need to adapt your diet to avoid damaging your aligners, and you won’t have to try and clean around them, enabling you to continue with your oral hygiene routine. Invisalign offers discretion, convenience and comfort for these reasons. You could also find that your self-esteem improves, when you achieve your great smile, as well as discovering that you have an improvement in your ability to chew and speak clearly. If you have experienced any jaw pain as a result of your misalignment, this may also be eased as well.

So, if you are looking for discreet treatment options that will achieve the star quality smile, come and visit our friendly team at Clapham South Dental Centre. We look forward to exploring clear braces Clapham with you.

Invisible braces: discreetly gaining a smile you can show off!

Have you ever dreamt of having a smile that you could flash at people and not have to worry about the reaction you might get? Do you dream of a smile that can metaphorically light up a room, rather than wishing the lights could be dimmed when you do? If you have misaligned teeth, it can affect your self-esteem and at Clapham South Dental Centre, we know that it doesn’t have to be this way. You can have a smile to be proud of and we are here to make your dreams come true! Many of our patients are concerned about people seeing their braces and this may be what has put you off seeking treatment in the past. Whether you are teen heading to school with the worry of peers poking fun at you, or an adult heading into a meeting, where you want to be taken seriously, we have a range of invisible braces Clapham that can help you to get the smile you’ve been dreaming of discreetly and conveniently. Getting a fabulous smile starts right here with us! invisible-braces-clapham

The range

From removable aligners to discreet fixed braces, we have a range of treatment options that can be used for mild to moderate alignment issues and beyond. Using the latest technology, our treatments are designed to offer maximum comfort and discretion, as well as the most timely results. All that’s standing in your way of getting a great smile is choosing the right treatment for you and we can easily help you to make your mind up during an initial consultation. During this appointment, we will examine you and present the treatment options that would be suitable for you. You can ask the questions you need to find out what is involved with each one, in order to be able to make an informed decision about the right way forward for you. Invisible braces Clapham should be an exciting prospect that you will be motivated by and chomping at the brace to get started with!

Invisalign

One of our treatment options is Invisalign. This involves bespoke plastic aligners that are removable and are worn over the teeth. They are barely visible due to the plastic being transparent, so only your teeth should be seen. The aligners push the teeth into position and you will need to change your aligners every couple of weeks. We will provide you with sets to last 6 weeks, before you come in for a check-up. You won’t have to wear your aligners whilst eating or cleaning your teeth and gums, and there should still be time to have them out for other reasons, such as playing sports. You could find you gain results in as little as 6 to 18 months, and there are special ranges for teens and very mild alignment issues.

Incognito

Incognito is a brand of lingual brace and while they have brackets and wires, these are placed on the backs of your teeth, so when you smile, nobody can see your braces. What more do we need to say?! They are discreet, convenient and well worth considering if you do require fixed braces.

Damon braces

Another option for fixed braces is Damon braces. We attach these to the front of your teeth, but the brackets are clear and the wires are enamel coloured, which means that they are very discreet. Damon braces have patented slide technology, which allows the wires to move freely, reducing any friction that could be caused between the wires, brackets and teeth. Damon smiles are known for being wider and very attractive with the results that this treatment achieves.

So, if you want a wonderful smile, don’t delay! We’re here ready to explore the treatment options of invisible braces Clapham with you and to get you a smile you can be proud of.

Dental implants: saving face has never been so easy!

At Clapham South Dental Centre, we believe that having a healthy and happy smile is really important for your wellbeing. We have a keen interest in ensuring that our patients receive the individualised care that they need to make the most of their treatment plans. Our dentist, Dr Aussia, has taken a great interest in dental implants Clapham since 2011, when he completed additional training in this field, and he is also a member of the Association of Dental Implantology. Dr Aussia believes that dental implants can provide a convenient, reliable and comfortable solution to replacing missing teeth. While dentures, crowns and bridges are viable treatment options, dental implants Clapham enable these replacement teeth to be fitted permanently in the mouth, just like natural teeth. Aesthetically, you can have a beautiful smile, and it will be able to function like a natural smile as well. dental-implants-clapham

How they work

Dental implants Clapham involve having metal screws attached to your jawbone, where you have missing teeth and it is to these screws that the replacement teeth can then be fitted. The screws shouldn’t loosen at all, because the gums will heal around them. You will need to have temporary replacement teeth attached to the screws, whilst the gums are healing and then you will be able to have the permanent replacement teeth placed. Crowns are typically used for single tooth replacements and a bridge is used for several teeth. Dentures can be used for a whole set of teeth that need replacing.

Does it involve surgery?

Having dental implants sounds like it would require general anaesthetic and a lot of recovery time, however, you will only need local anaesthetic to ensure that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. After the appointment, you will need a few weeks for your gums to heal, before the second appointment to have your permanent replacement teeth fitted. However, you should be comfortable during this period after the first few days, during which time you should be able to control any pain with regular over-the-counter remedies, such as paracetamol. The benefits of having dental implants certainly make the healing process worthwhile!

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Having dental implants will allow your smile to look completely natural. Replacement teeth are made to complement you and any remaining natural teeth that you have. However, having the replacement teeth fitted permanently means that you can continue to eat normally and you won’t need to avoid chewy or hard foods, or worry about them loosening while you talk. They should also last a very long time if you take care of them and that’s easy when all you need to do is brush and floss, as well as visit us for your routine dental check-ups. Dental implants could also help you to look younger as well. When you have gaps in your smile, your face can become shrunken, which can cause ageing. By replacing the missing teeth, however, this can help you to look more youthful as your face gains its structure again, allowing the skin to relax. The benefits of dental implants provide a natural looking smile that functions like a natural smile too. Why wouldn’t you want to save face and go for it?!

How to make your smile tow the line with Invisalign!

If you have misaligned teeth, you may feel self-conscious about smiling or have difficulties with chewing your food or speaking clearly. At Clapham South Dental Centre, we want our patients to feel confident about their healthy and attractive smiles, that function to the optimum ability. With Invisalign Clapham, you could have an improved smile in as little as 6 to 18 months. Getting your teeth in line can be discreet, comfortable and convenient thanks to the technology used with this treatment and we understand how much this can mean to our patients, both in their teens and adult years. invisalign-clapham

Could Invisalign be right for me?

Invisalign Clapham is a bespoke treatment for patients with mild to moderate alignment issues. Whether you have crossbite, over or underbite, crowded or gapped teeth, Invisalign could be the treatment you need to get your teeth in order. To find out if this is the right treatment for you, you will need to have a consultation with our dentist to ascertain what your alignment issues are. We will examine your mouth and we may also take X-rays to determine what your treatment options are. We can have an in-depth chat about what the options entail, so that you can make an informed decision. If Invisalign is offered, then you could find that this is the most convenient and practical treatment option for you.

Why we offer Invisalign

The first thing to understand about Invisalign is that this is not a fixed appliance. Invisalign is a system that consists of removable plastic aligners. You can remove the aligners for a couple of hours a day, allowing you to continue brushing your teeth and flossing, without having to try and contend with anything in your mouth. You can also remove the aligners to consume food and drink, removing the need for cleaning your aligners after food. The aligners are made to measure your mouth using iTero technology – a digital scan that can also be used to create an animation showing you what your smile will be like once the treatment is completed. The aligners should be comfortable to wear and you will only need to change them every couple of weeks and we can provide you with enough to last you for 6 weeks. As you wear the aligners, they will push the teeth into the correct position and nobody else should be able to see them as only your teeth will be on show. The plastic is transparent, which allows for a discreet and convenient experience, as you won’t have to take them out while you attend a meeting or go to school. Invisalign is a treatment that is designed to make your life as easy as can be, whilst getting the smile you’ve always wanted.

Invisalign for the family

If you are a teenager considering Invisalign, we offer Invisalign Teen, which is designed specifically for teenagers. We also offer Invisalign Lite, which is for addressing mild alignment issues and can sometimes achieve results more quickly than Invisalign Clapham for other mild to moderate alignment issues. By coming to visit us at Clapham South Dental Centre, we will be able to explore the treatment options with you and help you to achieve teeth that are as straight as they should be. Let’s make them tow the line now!

The Damon System: a guide to these clear braces from our team

When it comes to straightening your teeth as an adult, there are more than a few options available. clear-braces-clapham

There are the traditional fitted braces and aligners, and then there is the new system of braces that are fitted but often faster and more comfortable than traditional options. This is because the brackets are adapted to work on a self-ligating system, which reduces the pressure.

At Clapham South Dental Centre, we are experts in all manner of orthodontic tools; whether you are looking for an invisible aligner or clear braces Clapham, we will be able to prescribe the right option for you.

Here, our team will introduce you to one of the most popular types of clear braces Clapham that we use – the Damon System. So, read on to learn more!

What is the Damon System?

The Damon System is one of the most popular types of clear braces Clapham that we use. It employs self-ligating brackets, which means the wire is held in place by a small clip instead of elastic bands. This allows for less friction and pressure on the teeth, which can lead to fewer adjustments and a faster treatment time. The Damon System also uses a unique sliding mechanism, which allows the teeth to move more freely and comfortably into their proper positions. So, it is not as pressure-based as regular braces.

How long does the Damon System take to work?

The treatment time for the Damon System can vary depending on the individual case. However, on average, treatment with the Damon System can take about 6 months to a year less than traditional braces.

Our team will be able to give you a better idea of how long it will take for this brace to work for you, so feel free to book a consultation today!

Is the Damon System a fitted brace?

Yes, the Damon System is a fitted brace used to straighten teeth. The brackets and wire apply gentle pressure to the teeth to move them into the desired position. The treatment is customised for each patient, and our team will oversee each stage to ensure that your oral health remains in good condition and that the brace is not causing discomfort.

Can anyone wear the Damon brace?

The Damon System is suitable for many people who require orthodontic treatment, but it may not be the best option for everyone. It is typically recommended for patients with mild to moderate malocclusion, although in some cases, it can be used for more severe cases as well. It is also suitable for both children and adults. However, people with certain dental conditions, such as severe crowding or jaw discrepancies, may not be suitable candidates for the Damon System. Therefore, it’s always best to seek out a dental team that is familiar with this brace (like ours!) to determine if this treatment is the right choice for you.

Will I need a retainer afterwards?

Yes, you will. Whether you have had a fitted brace or an aligner, you will need to wear a retainer afterwards. This will prevent your teeth from moving back to their original positions.

FAQs about the Damon System invisible braces answered

Have you ever heard of the Damon System?

This is a brace that allows patients to have their teeth straightened without all of the inconveniences typically associated with regular metal braces.

And when you come to see our team at Clapham South Dental Centre, they will be more than happy to assess any orthodontic issues that you have and will be able to suggest whether you would be better suited for an aligner or invisible braces Clapham.

So, here, our team answers 5 commonly asked quinvisible-braces-claphamestions about invisible braces Clapham.

How long does the Damon System take to work?

The length of treatment with these invisible braces Clapham can vary depending on the individual case, but it typically takes between 6 and 30 months to achieve the desired results. Factors that can affect the treatment length include the misalignment’s severity, the patient’s age, and compliance with the treatment plan.

Is the Damon System more expensive than traditional braces?

Usually, yes.

As the Damon System is a type of self-ligating brace, this means that the brackets and wires used in the system do not require traditional elastic or metal ties. This type of brace is often considered more expensive than traditional metal braces. Still, the cost can vary depending on the specific treatment plan and the location of the orthodontic practice. It’s best to consult with an orthodontist to get a more accurate cost estimate.

Are there any side effects with the Damon System?

As with any type of orthodontic treatment, there can be some risks and side effects associated with the Damon System.

Some common side effects of this brace include soreness or discomfort in the mouth and jaw during the first few days after the braces are placed or adjusted. You may also have difficulty speaking or eating for a short period after the braces are placed or adjusted. As well as this, there may be a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. So, be sure to keep your teeth clean!

Can the Damon System be used to correct overbites or underbites?

Yes, the Damon System can correct overbites and underbites, which are common types of malocclusion.

But, as with most things related to orthodontic alignments, this will depend on the severity of the issue being treated. Other things will also need to be considered, such as whether or not you need to have molar teeth straightened as well. In this case, it may be more suitable for you to wear a standard fitted brace, but our team will be able to advise you.

Are Damon System braces more comfortable than traditional braces?

Yes, it is generally accepted by most patients that Damon System braces are more comfortable than other types of brace.

Many people find the Damon System to be more comfortable than traditional metal braces. This is because the Damon System uses self-ligating brackets, which do not require traditional elastic or metal ties to hold the wire in place. This eliminates the need for regular tightening appointments, which can be uncomfortable for some patients. Additionally, the Damon System uses a special type of wire that is designed to move teeth more efficiently and with less force, which can result in less discomfort during treatment.

Considering dental implants? 5 things you need to know

When you are looking to close a gap in your teeth, your online research will have undoubtedly led you to oral implants.

Oral implants are a great way to restore missing teeth and the strength of your bite all in one go. dental-implants-clapham

And, when you come to see our team at Clapham South Dental Centre, we will be more than happy to discuss your suitability for dental implants Clapham.

So, if you are considering having dental implants Clapham fitted, what are some of the things that you will need to know beforehand? Read on to find out!

The fitting may be spread out

When it comes to fitting dental implants Clapham, you may have more than one fitted.

So, to prevent your mouth from becoming overly sore, our team may decide to spread the fitting out over several appointments.

There are different implant types

The most commonly used type of implant is an endosteal implant. This is a small, titanium screw which is affixed to your jaw, provided that you have enough jawbone and provided that there isn’t an underlying health issue like osteoporosis.

But, if you don’t have enough jawbone, there are other types of implants you can use. This will include subperiosteal implants, zygomatic implants and mini implants. So, if you aren’t suitable for traditional options, don’t worry!

The fitting won’t be uncomfortable

It is easy to assume that when it comes to dental surgery it will be uncomfortable.

However, with oral implants, our team can assure you that during the fitting, we will use strong anaesthetic or even sedation if needed. Once the fitting is over, we will also recommend over-the-counter pain relief for you to use, which will prevent discomfort and promote faster healing. As a general rule, we will advise against the use of blood-thinning agents like ibuprofen and aspirin.

They can be lifelong

You may have read that oral implants will fall out after a few years. This can happen, but it is rare and usually only occurs if you have not been maintaining good oral hygiene.

If you brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day, floss, rinse with mouthwash and attend check-ups with our team twice a year, your oral implants will likely last up to or over 15 years and may even last the rest of your life.

You should also refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol after having implants fitted, as this can shorten their lifespan too.

They aren’t only for older people

It goes without saying that many people assume that those who have missing teeth are people who are older.

But, usually due to decay, gum disease, sports injuries or other factors, many people under the age of 40 may be missing one or more of their permanent teeth.

So, if you think oral implants are only for older people, you are mistaken, there are many younger people who are having oral implants fitted and restoring their smile using this efficient and long-lasting method.

If you want to know more about oral implants, call our team at Clapham South Dental Centre today.

Signs that your Invisalign aligners aren’t working as planned

It seems straightforward enough in theory. invisalign-clapham

You have an aligner fitted, wear it for 2 weeks, change it to the next in the series when needed and then boom. After around 3 to 6 months, your teeth will be straight. Easy!

But, there are rare occasions when there may be an underlying issue with an aligner; it may be due to poor fitting, poor usage or other dental health issues. So, if you have started wearing an aligner, it is best to know what to look out for.

When you come to Clapham South Dental Centre, our team will be able to assess your suitability for aligners like Invisalign Clapham, and we will also help you through the realignment process and the treatment of any potential issues that may occur.

So, with that in mind, what are some of the key signs that there may be an issue with your Invisalign Clapham?

Excessive discomfort

OK, so when it comes to moving teeth, there is going to be some discomfort.

But, if when wearing Invisalign Clapham, you notice that there is an excessive level of discomfort in the jaw, in the teeth or the gums, then you should book an appointment with our team. This could be a part of the realignment process, or it could indicate an underlying issue with your mouth or the fit of the aligner. A good way to assess this is to look at whether or not the discomfort is keeping you awake at night or whether it is causing you to be distracted during the day. So, if it hurts to keep your aligners in, please call us for an urgent consultation.

Loose aligners

As mentioned before, when you start wearing the aligners, you will notice that when they are first put in your mouth, they will feel tight.

And, as the teeth move over the next couple of weeks, they will become looser.

But if your aligners are consistently loose, even when you first put them in, you will need to see our team for an assessment, as there may be an issue with the aligners being too large. If they are too large, they can’t move your teeth!

Unusual movement

When you have your aligners made, our team will show you how you can expect your teeth to move, so there will be no unpleasant surprises during the process.

So, if you notice that your teeth are moving in a way that was not planned, then you should come in and see our team as soon as you can to have the aligner’s shape reassessed.

Poor tracking

With aligners, tracking refers to how well your aligners are pressed against the teeth.

So, if there are persistent air bubbles or your teeth are not moving as planned, then this can point to an issue with tracking. Our team will usually be able to spot this using photos that you will have taken of your teeth and sent to us via the associated app, so this will not be an issue for very long!

How do invisible braces treat rotated teeth? A step-by-step approach

As a dental practice, we understand the importance of a confident and beautiful smile. One common issue that can affect the appearance of a smile is rotated teeth. But, have no fear, Clapham South Dental Centre are here to help! Clear aligners are a great option for those looking to straighten rotated teeth and improve the appearance of their smile. The treatment process is relatively straightforward and, with the help of a dentist, can produce great results. clear-braces-in-clapham

First, what causes rotated teeth?

Rotated teeth refer to teeth that have turned or twisted out of their normal position. This can occur in any part of the mouth, but is most commonly seen in the front teeth. Rotated teeth can affect both the appearance and function of the mouth, making it difficult to bite and chew food properly.

There are several causes of rotated teeth. One of the most common causes is genetics, as some people are simply predisposed to having rotated teeth. It can also be caused by several other reasons such as crowding of the teeth, trauma or injury to the teeth or jaw, or thumb sucking or prolonged use of a pacifier during childhood. Other reasons for this condition may be early or late loss of baby teeth, habits such as tongue thrusting or mouth breathing, a misaligned bite, or orthodontic treatment that was not performed properly or not maintained.

Step 1: Consultation

The first step in the treatment using clear braces Clapham is to schedule a consultation with our dental practice. During this appointment, we will examine your mouth and take X-rays to assess the current position of your rotated teeth. We will then discuss with you the best treatment plan for your individual needs, also we will discuss the duration of the treatment and any potential side effects.

Step 2: Custom-made trays

Next, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create customised trays. These trays are specifically designed to fit your teeth and will be used to gradually shift them into the desired position. The trays are made of a clear, invisible material that is comfortable to wear and will not affect your speech.

Step 3: Wearing the trays

Once the clear braces Clapham trays have been created, you’ll need to wear them for a certain amount of time each day. The exact amount of time will depend on the complexity of your rotated teeth and the desired outcome. On average, treatment takes around 6-18 months, but some patients may see results even sooner.

Step 4: Adjustment appointments

Throughout the treatment process, you’ll need to schedule regular adjustment appointments with our dentist. These appointments are necessary to ensure that the aligners are still fitting properly and that your teeth are shifting in the desired direction. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to the trays to ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned.

Step 5: Removal of trays

Finally, once the desired position of your rotated teeth has been achieved, the trays will be removed. Our dentist will then fit you with a retainer, which will help to keep your teeth in their new positions. The retainer will need to be worn for a certain period of time, usually a few months, to ensure that the teeth do not move back to their original position.

Hopefully this guide has provided helpful insight into the process of getting clear braces Clapham, but if you have any more questions please do not hesitate to get in touch today.