We believe that clear aligner treatments have a number of advantages:
- The aligners are clear. They are not invisible but discrete.
- Most people adapt to the aligners in a few days so the effect on speech is minimal.
- The smooth surface of the aligners are easy on the lips and tongue.
- Breakages are unusual so unscheduled visit to the clinic are rare.
- They are removed for eating so diet can remain unchanged.
- Removal for cleaning means good toothbrushing can maintained and the gums remain healthy.
- Surface damage or marking of the teeth during treatment is very rare with aligners.
- They can be removed for woodwind and brass instrument playing.
The patient journey
A typical consultation involves an in-depth discussion about the aims of any proposed treatment so our Specialists can fully understand what our patients are trying to achieve.
You would usually have a digital scan of the teeth. This is like having a video taken of the teeth, which is translated into a 3D model, which we can use to illustrate the nature of the problem.
We will discuss a number of options for treatment and if we (or you) feel that clear aligners are not the best solution, we may recommend a fixed brace. However, there are very few problems where we cannot use aligners.
If you agree with our proposal, we move onto a full planning stage, where the 3D digital images are manipulated by the Specialist, moving the teeth digitally into the new position. We analyse many aspects of aesthetics and jaw function including all the sizes of the individual teeth to ensure the jigsaw puzzle fits together.
The customised aligner sequence is then produced along with small, tooth-coloured attachments, which bond onto the teeth to give us more control of the movements and to help hold the aligners in place.
It takes about four weeks for the design and production process and for the aligners to be delivered to us.
You will have a visit where the attachments are ‘glued’ in place and we will go through the fitting and removal of the aligners. You will have plenty of time to practice until you are happy. Importantly, we are available by phone / email or in person to help if there are any concerns.
Regular visits to see us ensure that we can monitor the health of the teeth and bite during the process and ensure that the treatment progresses smoothly and efficiently. Most comprehensive treatments take between 12 and 18 months. Less complicated problems can be resolved in less time.
All orthodontic treatments must be retained (held) afterward to prevent any age-related change in the position of the teeth. We generally do this with fixed and removable retainers (you will see examples of our fixed retainers in the galleries).
Aligners are suitable for all ages and we have examples spanning from age 7 to 70 years.
We operate from two locations in Surrey. Please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our Specialists.
