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by Dr Gustavo Vivaldi, Vivaldi Smile Artisans, Sydney, NSW
I’ve been using Invisalign since 2007 when they were the first major supplier of clear aligners. They were the gold standard then and still are today. Invisalign has the best product, best software and more ways to treat difficult cases.
What’s good about it
When Invisalign started, the system was very limited in what it could achieve. Today, the 3D, diagnostic and planning tools are more advanced and give us better control of movements. We can merge CBCT data into the treatment planning to clearly identify the roots.
The improvements have been dramatic so Invisalign can now treat a wide range of cases. As the technology has evolved so has our understanding of the mechanics of tooth movement. While there is still a place for braces, clear aligners can deal with nearly 100 per cent of cases now.
Of course, most patients prefer clear aligners as they’re comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. The movements are more controlled, so there’s way less pain than with normal braces. There are also no emergency appointments as there’s nothing that can break and poke into the mouth of the patient.
What’s not so good
For the aligners to work, there needs to be constant pressure for a long period of time to move the teeth. If the patient doesn’t wear the aligners for the required amount of time, that movement is not going to happen. Some patients choose not to use aligners because they know they will not be compliant.
