FAQs
Invisalign
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign treatment is a virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth. Using advanced 3D computer-imaging technology, Invisalign shows you your complete treatment plan based on your Invisalign Provider’s prescription, from the initial position of your teeth towards the final desired position. Then a series of clear aligners are custom-made for your teeth to move them little by little.
Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the series, gradually moving towards the projected final position. The treatment time depends on your specific needs and will be decided by your Invisalign Provider.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign aligners move teeth through a series of carefully controlled movements. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign treatment not only controls the amount of movement that each aligner delivers but also the timing of the movement. So, at each stage, only certain teeth can move, following the Invisalign treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
How much does Invisalign cost?
As with other types of orthodontic treatment, the cost of Invisalign treatment depends on the complexity of your teeth straightening issue and your course of treatment. As a general rule the cost for adults is comparable to traditional fixed braces and is typically between £2,500 and £5,500, although if only minor tooth movement is required, prices could start from £1,500. However, only an Invisalign Provider can accurately determine the cost.
Why do we put off a visit to the Dental Hygienist?
It’s so easy to put off a visit to The Dental Hygienist, particularly when you are not aware of any problems. We know many of you are worried about,
- Time/ other priorities
- Cost
- Fear
These are all reasons we need to address, so we would like you to know
How we can try to help you.
Time: We offer flexible time slots between 8.30 am / 6.00pm to allow the most convenient time for you to visit us.
Cost: We offer a payment plan & standby appointments; our Receptionists Magda, Kelly and Mary will explain these options to you.
Fear: We feel this is the most important reason, that’s why our two Hygienist’s (Alison & Annie) are fully qualified health care professionals, who will make your appointment informative & enlightening. There is always lot’s to discuss and you are given time to express any concerns and to explain how you are feeling.
Remember oral health is not just about bad breath, smoking, or sensitivity it’s also proven to be a risk factor in Heart disease or Alzheimer’s.
Gone are the days of a quick ‘polish’ and a lecture about flossing or smoking. Now our Hygienist’s will carry out a thorough examination of your gums, tongue, & soft tissues, (An oral cancer check) also a gum assessment or screening.
The Hygienist will spend time explaining how you can prevent gum disease & tooth decay by improving your home care. You will get oral hygiene advice, be recommended a suitable toothbrush & interdental aids to help you keep your mouth healthy, and to prevent any problem’s coming back.
A professional deep clean will be carried out with your full co-operation. This will remove any deposits or stain from your teeth. This could include an opportunity for an Air Polish, which is fantastic for removing unsightly stains caused by smoking or from red wine, tea, & coffee.
We hope you have found this information informative.
Top tips to consider before selecting an Implantologist.
- Experience: Ask how many years experience the dentist has and how many implants he/she has placed, request testimonials if possible.
- Qualifications and training: Some dentists can do a course for implants in just one weekend.
- Check the make and quality of implants: Have they any evidence of long-term success rate. A few successful and well-known companies are for example Astra, Straumann, Ankylose, Nobel Biocare.
- Implant company background: Recently new implant companies have reached the market. Check these companies have evidence, as some are even made in the Far East. Like other companies, they start up and close down. At The Gallery, Dr Balaji has seen some patients who have previously had these implants which have failed. Due to the unawareness of the company, there was nothing that could be done for them apart from new implants.
- Does the dentist offer guarantees? Is your dentist willing to give you a guarantee and are they going to replace it for free if the implant fails?
- Is the dentist or surgeon local? Check if he/she is just visiting, as you need to guarantee if something was to go wrong someone will know how to treat you in the long term.
- Cheap is not always a good option: All of the aforementioned points should be considered before making your decision. Would you really want to go through this expensive surgical procedure again? The recent PPI Breast Implants scandal is a worrying example.
- Quality of implant crowns: Implant crowns need to be well made to fit the implant, ensure the teeth suit your bite and look as natural to your smile as possible
