Invisalign myths

We’ve transformed thousands of smiles using Invisalign, so there’s not much we don’t know about these innovative clear aligners. To help you sort the fact from the fiction, we’re here to debunk some of the most common Invisalign myths.

1. Invisalign can’t move teeth

Invisalign aligners look very similar to removable retainers (which stop teeth from moving after braces). So, some patients wonder if they’re even capable of straightening teeth.

Rest assured, Invisalign aligners straighten teeth very effectively. Each set of aligners will move your teeth little by little, by gently applying pressure in the right places.

2. Invisalign is more expensive than fixed braces

The cost of braces and aligners does vary by patient and provider. For some individuals, Invisalign is more affordable than fixed braces (picture below).

If your front teeth are only slightly misaligned, you could be a good candidate for Invisalign Express, which costs just £2,000. To receive quotes for all your treatment options, contact us to arrange your free no-obligation consultation.

3. Invisalign aligners give you a lisp

There is some truth to this statement, but it’s not unique to clear aligners. Any orthodontic appliance can affect your speech, and you may find you develop a slight lisp just after your braces are fitted.

Some patients don’t experience any problems and those who do usually adapt within a few days. It’s important to keep wearing your aligners and keep talking.

4. Invisalign stains and becomes more visible

You’ll need to change your Invisalign aligners every 1–2 weeks, so they shouldn’t have time to stain. Take them out to eat and drink, keep your teeth clean and you shouldn’t experience any problems.

You can buy Invisalign cleaning crystals or retainer tablets to keep your aligners extra fresh. We also recommend gently brushing your aligners twice a day with antibacterial, unscented hand soap. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

5. Invisalign takes a long time to work

Does Invisalign move teeth slower than traditional fixed braces? Not necessarily. In some cases, it can align teeth faster than metal braces.

Before you start your treatment, we’ll show you how your teeth are expected to move and how long your transformation will take. You’ll be able to visualise every step of your journey and your incredible outcome.

6. Invisalign can’t move teeth vertically

When Invisalign was first introduced, it changed the way we straighten teeth. However, it wasn’t nearly as capable as it is today. In its early days, it was limited to specific movements, and it couldn’t pull teeth down vertically.

Excitingly, things changed with the launch of Invisalign attachments. These small tooth-coloured buttons give your aligners something to grip onto, allowing them to achieve more challenging movements. Invisalign can now treat most cases as effectively as fixed braces.

7. Invisalign is just for teenagers

Most of our patients are over 18, and there’s no age limit for Invisalign treatment. In the past, braces were often associated with teens, but that’s not the case anymore.

The latest invisible braces appeal to all ages, thanks to their inconspicuous design. As well as being discreet, Invisalign fits into our patients’ busy social lives. You can even remove your aligners to enjoy dinners and drinks with friends brace-free.

8. Invisalign and mail-order aligners are the same

It’s now possible to order clear aligners online and straighten your teeth at home. Unfortunately, these appliances may look similar to Invisalign, but they are nowhere near as capable.

Without the expertise of a specialist orthodontist to plan and supervise your treatment, you’re unlikely to get the precise results you could achieve with Invisalign.

Read more about the potential pitfalls of straightening teeth at home

Hopefully, we’ve dispelled one or two myths for you. If you have any other questions, we’d love to hear from you.