Select Dynamic field

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a clear mould that fits over your teeth and straightens them. It's ideal for those looking for a more discreet option. It can fix dental problems like gaps, crowding, and mild bite issues.

Crowded teeth

Take this online diagnosis and identify the issue with your teeth

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign on teeth

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made (made for your teeth) moulds that fit over your teeth. These moulds are clear and thin, making them hardly noticeable. They gently push your teeth to gradually move them into the correct position.

Your orthodontist will start by taking a 3D scan of your mouth, which is used to create a treatment plan.

You'll then get a set of moulds that you must wear daily, and you will switch to a new set every few weeks. Each set of moulds applies a small degree of pressure, which brings your teeth closer to their final positions.

The duration of the treatment varies from patient to patient, but it typically takes between 12 and 18 months.

What types of dental issues can Invisalign fix?

Invisalign can fix the following issues:

  • Overcrowding: when your teeth are too close together and overlap each other
  • Gaps: when you have spaces between your teeth.
  • Overbite: when your upper front teeth cover too much of your lower front teeth.
  • Underbite: when your lower front teeth extend beyond your upper front teeth.
  • Crossbite: when some of your upper teeth bite inside some of your lower teeth.
  • Open bite: when your upper and lower front teeth do not touch when you bite down.

Invisalign may not be suitable for more severe cases, such as:

  • Large overbite or underbite: when you have a big difference between the size or position of your upper and lower jaws.
  • Deep bite: when your upper front teeth cover most or all of your lower front teeth.
  • Tooth shape or size issues: when you have tiny, large, round, or peg-shaped teeth.
  • Missing teeth: when you have one or more gaps due to tooth loss.

For these cases, you may need other types of braces or additional treatments, such as surgery or appliances. Your dentist or orthodontist will advise you on the best option for you.

What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?

Invisalign has many advantages over traditional braces, such as:

  • Aesthetics: Invisalign is clear and discreet, so it does not affect your appearance.
  • Comfort: Invisalign is smooth and flexible, so it does not irritate your gums or cheeks.
  • Convenience: Invisalign is removable, so you can take it out to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
  • Hygiene: Invisalign is easy to clean so that you can maintain good oral health.
  • Confidence: Invisalign can improve your smile and boost your self-esteem

However, Invisalign also has some drawbacks, such as:

  • Cost: Invisalign is usually more expensive than traditional braces.
  • Discipline: Invisalign requires you to wear it for at least 22 hours a day and follow the instructions carefully.
  • Adjustments: Invisalign may affect your speech or cause some discomfort at first.
  • Attachments: Invisalign may require some small tooth-coloured bumps to be glued to your teeth to help move them.
  • Refinements: Invisalign may need some extra trays at the end of the treatment to fine-tune the results.

How much does Invisalign cost in South Africa?

Orthodontist showing Invisalign

The average cost of Invisalign ranges from R30 000 to R85 000. However, this is only an estimate, and each patient's actual cost may differ. Your dentist or orthodontist may offer payment plans or financing options to help you afford Invisalign. You can also check with your medical aid if they cover any part of the cost of Invisalign. However, most medical aids in South Africa do not cover orthodontic treatments or only a small portion of them.

Is Invisalign worth it?

Here are some points that you can use to help you determine if Invisalign is the correct option for you:

  1. Can you afford them? - Get a quote and see if it works for your budget.
  2. If you are over 40, you might be embarrassed to wear traditional braces. In this case, Invisalign is a better option.
  3. Wearing Invisalign during the day can be cumbersome. For example, taking them off in a public place when you want to eat something. Metal braces are far more convenient in this case.
  4. Invisalign is comfortable, but some patients find it strange to have something over their teeth. In comparison, with metal braces, you tend to forget you have them after several weeks.

get your new smile

Get a consultation today!

New


Smile

How do Braces Work and What are They Used For?
What is an Orthodontic Retainer?
{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}

You may be interested in