At New Smile Fulham, we believe that knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your dental treatment. If you've ever wondered how Invisalign treatment works on a scientific level, you're in the right place.
In this blog, we will delve into the workings of Invisalign, explaining the principles and mechanics that allow clear aligners to move teeth effectively and discreetly. Read on to discover the fascinating world of orthodontics and the technology behind your beautiful, straight smile.
Understanding tooth movement
Before we delve into the specifics of Invisalign, let's first understand the basic principles of tooth movement. Teeth are anchored in the jawbone by a network of connective tissues, including ligaments and the periodontal ligament. These tissues play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of your teeth within your mouth.
When force is applied to a tooth, such as through orthodontic treatment, it initiates a biological response. This response involves a process known as bone remodelling, which allows the tooth to move to its desired position. Understanding this process is essential for comprehending how Invisalign achieves its magic.
Bone remodelling
Bone remodelling is a natural and dynamic process that occurs throughout our lives. It involves two main types of cells: osteoblasts (bone-building cells) and osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells). When a tooth experiences force, as it does during orthodontic treatment, it triggers a series of events:
The application of force creates compression on one side of the tooth and tens8ion on the other. These forces stimulate the surrounding bone cells.
Osteoclasts, activated by the compression, begin to resorb or break down bone tissue on the compressed side.
Osteoblasts, activated by the tension, deposit new bone tissue on the side opposite the compression.
As this cycle continues, the tooth gradually moves in the direction of the applied force, following the path created by the bone remodelling process.
How Invisalign uses bone remodelling
Invisalign aligners leverage the principles of bone remodelling to achieve their remarkable results. Here's how:
Your Invisalign treatment starts with a precise 3D scan of your teeth. Using advanced technology, a series of custom-made aligners are created to fit snugly over your teeth. Each aligner is different from the previous one, gradually guiding your teeth towards their desired positions.
The magic of Invisalign lies in the design of these aligners. They are fabricated to exert controlled and gradual pressure on specific teeth. This pressure initiates the bone remodelling process mentioned earlier.
Through a sequence of aligners, Invisalign ensures that your teeth move precisely as planned. The technology used in treatment planning allows for a highly accurate prediction of the final result, ensuring your smile aligns perfectly with your treatment goals.
You'll switch to a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks. Each new aligner continues the process of gently nudging your teeth towards their ideal positions. This step-by-step approach is essential for efficient and predictable results.
Throughout your Invisalign journey, you'll have regular check-up appointments with your orthodontist to ensure everything is progressing as intended. Any necessary adjustments can be made to your treatment plan to optimise your results.
The art and science of Invisalign
Invisalign treatment is not just about aesthetics; it's a meticulously designed scientific process that harnesses the body's natural ability to adapt and change. Through bone remodelling, clear aligners can guide teeth into their desired positions over time, offering patients a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces.
Our expert dentists are committed to providing you with the best possible dental care, including Invisalign in Fulham.
If you're considering orthodontic treatment and want to learn more about how Invisalign can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted, please don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with us. We'll take 3D scans of your teeth and gums, assess your orthodontic issues, and create a bespoke Invisalign treatment plan just for you.