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"Want straighter teeth?
...we've got you covered"
We provide Invisalign, hidden lingual braces, white ceramic braces... let's try and find the right one for you!
We have helped thousands of people improving their smile and bite, our cases and results speak for themselves - just have a look above. A core part of any high quality ethical dentist's belief is minimal invasive dentistry. This means as little cutting or damage to natural teeth as possible. Where needed we can provide invisible white braces, clear aligners or lingual braces to make sure the process is as stress and pain-free as can be.
We want your smile to stay as your smile but only a better version that will last for years.
Common Orthodontic Brace Questions
Does it hurt?
Putting braces on does not hurt but as teeth move into a straighter position they will feel more tender and mobile. Eating may feel a bit sensitive initially and after adjustment appointments (normally carried out once a month).
Will it affect my speech?
If you have normal braces (ones that show), it does not affect your speech. You may get slight chaffing of your lips for the first week and we advise some lip salve or vaseline during this period to help. If you have lingual (hidden) braces or removable aligners such as Invisalign you may find your speech a little affected but after a couple of weeks once you have adjusted the majority of people do not notice.
Will my eating be affected?
You will still be able to eat normally although we advised initially a soft diet until you get used to your orthodontic treatment. It is best to cut up vegetables and hard foods into smaller manageable pieces. Also we advise that you avoid sugary drinks and sweets during treatment as this can cause decay. Certain foods such as curries, red wine and highly pigmented foods can stain your teeth, we advise that you maintain your hygienist sessions during your orthodontic treatment. Cleaning your teeth with interdental brushes after each meal is also very important and we will provide you with a personalised oral hygiene regimen once you begin your treatment with us.
Do I have to wear my orthodontic appliance all the time?
The simple answer is YES. The more you wear it the better and quicker the result. We always tell patients that there is almost a 'no pain no gain' philosophy that needs to be adopted to get the best results. Hidden or white buccal braces are glued on to your teeth and removed at the end of treatment. Removable aligners such as Invisalign or Inman can be removed for eating and cleaning but as mentioned before this can become awkward for some patients. We advised that you arrange a consultation to find the ideal system or combination that suits your needs best. We no longer provide silver braces and provide either invisible aligners, white ceramic brackets or gold hidden lingual braces.
Will I need a retainer?
YES! If you do not want your teeth to move after treatment or suffer any relapse. In every treatment plan both removable ESSIX clear retainers (must be worn every night for 6 months and then alternate nights indefinitely) and bonded hidden retainers will be provided. A bonded retainer is a small hidden silver or gold chain placed behind the front teeth to prevent the teeth from moving and is placed there permanently. Please note we may charge a small fee for lost or damaged retainers.
How long will it take?
Depending on the severity of your case it can range between 4-9 months. If your case is very severe and requires complex treatment or jaw surgery we may have to refer you to a specialist consultant.
Will my bite change?
Yes and no. With cosmetically focused orthodontics we do not aim to change your bite although we do explain to patients that your bite may indeed change and take 6-12 months post treatment to feel settled. As mentioned previously if your bite is severely misaligned we may need to refer you to a specialist consultant.
Will you need to remove any of my teeth?
In general, no. In extreme cases we may have to remove a tooth if the crowding is very severe or the tooth is heavily compromised. We create space by gently sanding in between the crowded teeth, which does not hurt and allows us to shape the teeth to the ideal symmetrical proportions.
Will I need any extra work at the end of treatment?
Sometimes once orthodontic treatment is completed, we provide teeth whitening to really give your teeth that sparkle! Also in some instances if the teeth have been worn down or are misshapen we can add some white filling material (see anterior composite bonding) or veneers to create the ideal proportions. This is discussed on a case by case basis.
Can I spread the payments?
Yes of course you can. We offer monthly payment plans. Please contact us for more information.
How can I arrange a complimentary video consultation?
Please visit the contact page or email us on contact@tahadental.co.uk
INVISALIGN
SEE AN INSTANT PROJECTED RESULT NOW BY CLICKING ON THIS LINK
COMMON INVISALIGN QUESTIONS:
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign Treatment is the process of wearing a series of clear, removable plastic aligner trays that gradually straighten your teeth. No brackets and wires, and none of the restrictions that come with metal braces. Although we sometimes place small invisible white filling buttons on your teeth (called attachments) to help move the teeth in the right direction. We may also use small removable rubber bands towards the end of your treatment to perfect your bite.
How does Invisalign work?
At TAHA Dental Excellence we digitally scan you and via computer. Then with special technical analysis we accurately plan where your teeth need to go. Once the final appearance and bite is OK'd by you and your dentist your Invisalign process will begin. A number of custom plastic trays will be made for you, each one moving your teeth a little to the ideal position. For more complex cases more trays will be needed. For simple cases, less trays will be needed and the cases will usually be completed quicker. For simple cases (less than 14 trays) you will most likely be on the cheaper and quicker Invisalign lite package, for more complex cases and bite correction you will be on a Invisalign full comprehensive case. We normally advise which category you will most likely be during a consultation.
How do the trays work to move the teeth?
You will get a series of trays. Each tray will move your teeth in a specific way. You will wear each tray for around 1-2 weeks and then change to a new tray to continue your movement plan. Your Invisalign clear aligners are then designed to apply the right amount of force to the right place at the right time based on your plan. You will wear each set of aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day.
Can anyone have Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment can be used for both adults and teenagers looking for a virtually invisible method to improve their smile (we glue on a bit of temporary white filling on some of the teeth which is removed at the end of your treatment). It is possible to fix nearly all common teeth-straightening and bite issues, from simple to complex. Also, thanks to a discreet blue dot on the outside of teen aligners, parents can be sure their child is wearing their aligners enough. If your cases is particularly complex or requires surgery we may have to refer you to a consultant hospital specialist. Make sure you have a full dental examination, radiographs and hygiene sessions before you start Invisalign. You must complete any essential work first.
Can anyone provide Invisalign?
Only dentists who have attended official Invisalign courses. Some dentists can only provide simple 'go' or lite cases but at TAHA Dental Excellence we can provide FULL and COMPLEX treatments. Also the benefit of attending with us is that we can provide any other additional treatment in house also such as teeth whitening, composite bonding, dental implants, root canals etc. Depending on how many cases you do in a year, Invisalign may award you a ranking being bronze, silver, gold or platinum etc. The truth is this is more of marketing ploy to make your dentist push Invisalign more. For us we do provide a lot of Invisalign but we always discuss all the other options and systems first to make sure you pick which is best for you. We are not concerned with gimmicks and titles but actually care what we can actually confidently deliver to you in the safest way possible for your long term oral health. Orthodontics is a complex area of dentistry and when you need to see a specialist - this will be arranged for you. Our clinicians all believe in continued education to constantly improve therefore our level of education in this field goes far beyond what is provided by the companies themselves.
How long will my Invisalign treatment take?
Everyone is different... simple cases can be finished in 4-6 months while complex cases can take up to 18-24 months. You should start seeing results within 4-8 weeks. For the best results, wear your Invisalign clear aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, taking them out just for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. If you do not wear your aligners your treatment will take longer. You will see your dentist every 4-6 weeks to make sure your trays are still fitting and tracking. Sometimes if you cannot attend your dentist may do a remote consultation via video or analyse your movements via your smartphone photos.
What are those white blobs on the teeth during Invisalign?
These are called attachments. These shapes serve as handles, giving the aligners something to gently push on in order to move your teeth with the right amount of force, and are what make complex tooth movements possible without braces. Invisalign clear aligners fit smoothly and tightly around them. When you are wearing your trays you won't even feel them. They are unlikely to break but if they do come off don't worry just contact your dentist and they can easily repair it. Invisalign has special patents on the designs of their trays and attachments that is why they are the only aligner we use. At TAHA Dental Excellence we only use and work with the best, Invisalign treatment is the most advanced clear aligner system in the world, backed by more than two decades of innovation and expertise.
I have veneers, crowns, missing teeth, bridges and old fillings will Invisalign still work?
Your dentist will have to assess you and give you an individual treatment plan but anything is possible given the right circumstances. The more natural teeth surfaces you have the more likely treatment will take place successfully.
How will Invisalign affect my life - is it really inconvenient and sore?
In the first week your speech may be affected and the teeth feel strange. This normally passes after the first week. You will eventually forget you are even wearing them. People will hardly notice you are wearing them as they are transparent. You can remove them if you really need to also. You can eat and drink whatever you want but just be careful with certain wines, curry and cheeses (as these may stain your teeth). Invisalign treatment moves your teeth by applying gentle, constant force, but some people do feel temporary discomfort for the first few days of wearing a new set of aligners (you can take some paracetamol). Typically, people describe it as feeling “pressure” and it’s normal — it’s a sign your Invisalign clear aligners are working.
When I remove the aligners my teeth feel fragile and wobbly?
Yes. As your Invisalign aligners gradually shift your teeth into their proper position, your gums are re-forming around each tooth as it moves. Be sure to talk to us about any concerns. At the end of your treatment once you have your retainers, it takes around 6-12 months for the bite and teeth to start feeling 'normal' again.
Is there an Invisalign consent form?
Yes download it and have a good read (any questions feel free to discuss it with us).
Can I use chewing gum or sticky foods while I am wearing aligners? What about cleaning?
Try to avoid it as they can stick to your aligners. Use cold water and a toothbrush with no toothpaste to clean the aligners and keep them secure in your tray box when not wearing them. You can also use Invisalign cleaning crystals or retainer brite cleaning tablets to make sure your trays don't stain and look gleaming. Ps. try to make sure your dog doesn't get access to them and chew your aligners. Take your aligners out when eating. Once finished brush and floss your teeth and place your aligners back in.
I snore and grind my teeth... will my aligners come off when I'm sleeping?
No... your aligners are custom made and fitted so do not worry. The trays should also protect your teeth from any mild grinding damage. Regarding severe wear or grinding please discuss this with your practitioner.
I have lost my trays or forgotten to wear them will they still fit and work?
If this has only happened for a short space of time then chances are you will be fine. Initially when you pop them in they may be tight but after a few days they should feel normal again. If they no longer fit then you may need to be rescanned by your Invisalign provider. If you have cracked them wear either your previous set or your next set until your dentist can decide the next best course of action. Your dentist may need to rescan you and order another set for you (you cannot order directly yourself).
What happens at the end of my Invisalign treatment?
Once you and your doctor are happy with the positions. Your doctor will remove all your attachments and provide you with removable Vivera retainers and a possible hidden bonded metal wire in behind the teeth to prevent them from relapsing and moving again. Your dentist and you may notice some black triangles in between the teeth and may discuss composite bonding, veneers or grafting to restore the site. Also you may wish to whiten your teeth and smooth any small uneven edges. We normally recommend you wear your Vivera removable retainers full time for at least 6-12 months and then after this period indefinite night-time wear to prevent the teeth moving. If you loose or damage these retainers your dentist can order you a new set with 1-3 weeks at a possible additional charge.
What are the main differences between light and comprehensive Invisalign?
To be honest it just comes down to complexity of the case and the result we want to achieve, as comprehensive is pretty much an unlimited number of trays while lite is restricted to 14 trays (this reduces the possibilities of complete correction). The main reason we recommend comprehensive is because you have this 5 year window guarantee from Invisalign. So if the teeth move and need alteration you do not need to pay anymore - think of it as an extended warranty for your teeth.
What is IPR (inter proximal reduction) or that sanding thing you do between the teeth?
This is a painless procedure where we use metal sanding strips to open and break the contacts between the crowded teeth to allow them to move better. It sounds a bit archaic but in reality it is very minimal usually around 0.5mm. Also the tiny gaps created close very quickly and mean that we do not need to remove any additional teeth. If your teeth feel sensitive make sure you take a mild painkiller before your appointment.
Will the attachments feel sharp and sore?
Initially these attachments or brackets will feel a bit sharp and strange. They may even rub against your lip and gum. After a few days they smooth down very quickly so do not worry. If very sharp let your dentist know so they can smooth it for you. Also use lots of lip balm to help protect your lips.
Will my attachments fall off or break - what do I do if that happens?
It is rare. Just eat your food as normal. Cut hard foods into small pieces. If they do chip or break off do not worry just let your dentist know and they will replace them when you next attend for review.
Will my aligners stop me from eating?
Initially it does stop you from snacking and you may loose weight until you become used to them. Most clients within a week or two are back to their normal eating and drinking routine. After the initial stages you get the hang of popping them in and out it becomes very autonomic.
My aligners see very tight I cannot seem to get them out easily - any advice?
When you get a new set of aligners they seem very tight and take a few days for the plastic to ease. We advise to generally take them out from the back and inside first. You can use an aligner hook from amazon to help remove them.
What will my teeth feel like?
A little bit tender and a little bit rough because of the bumps of the attachments. The first two weeks are the toughest - hang in there - it does get easier.
My lips feel dry what can I do?
Make sure your aligners are being cleaned well. Use lots of lip balm and stay hydrated. Having aligners in your mouth does increase your salivary flow so carry around some water and a tissue with you.
My dog ate my aligner what do I do?
Contact your dentist and make sure you keep your aligners safe in their box (you may be charged a replacement).
My aligner feels like it not sitting what can I do?
You can use chewing tubes provided by your dentist and bite on your aligners for a few minutes after fitted. This will help seat your aligners better. You can also get these on amazon (google search orthodontic chewies).
The edges of my teeth are not even and the dentist mentioned composite bonding what is that?
Some edges of your teeth may be chipped or worn so sometimes we 'glue or bond' some natural looking white filling material to these edges to make them look a bit more symmetrical and harmonious.
You may also develop black triangles between you teeth that may require bonding.
Please click on this link for more information on composite bonding after Invisalign - click here.
Can I still be intimate and kiss my partner?
Yes - none of our clients have raised this as being an issue.
How long does it take from ordering to fit of my first Invisalign tray?
Normally 2-4 weeks
Do normal braces work better and faster than Invisalign?
It depends on each case. It many cases Invisalign can work just as well and faster. For very complex cases we normally tell clients that it can take from 12-24 months (similar to normal braces).
Can I use my aligners as whitening trays?
The simple answer is yes but there is an argument to say dedicated whitening trays may be better in more complex whitening cases.
Can you ever finish treatment ahead of schedule?
Sometimes. If you follow all of your clinicians advice your case will definitely go faster. You can stop at anytime but this may result in you not reaching your ideal and your teeth relapsing into their old positions.
What are refinements?
Sometimes between you and you dentist you may feel certain teeth need a little more work to get them into the ideal position. Therefore we may take a new scan and get a few extra aligners made at the end of your treatment to achieve this.
What is the best retainer to have at the end of treatment?
Good question discuss this with your dentist. In general we provided bonded retainers (a silver metal wire) behind your front teeth and removal Vivera retainers (these are the ones made by Invisalign - see video at the bottom of this page). It is a little more expensive but gives you piece of mind. We normally state that you will need to have some form of retention for the rest of your life to prevent your teeth from moving.
Should I clean between my teeth?
Yes please floss. Use a tongue cleaner. Use interdental brushes. Use an electric oral b toothbrush. Use a waterpik flosser to flush between the teeth and mouthwash. Make sure you visit the hygienist before during and after your treatment. You can use steri-dent or retainer brite you keep your aligners clean. Do clean the inside of your tray with cold water and your toothbrush.
My aligner digs into my tongue or the attachments are causing ulcers - what can I do?
Speak to your dentist. If really stuck use some orthodontic wax, a nail file to sand the sharp corner and warm salty mouthwash or iglu ulcer gel to help soothe the area.
I am pregnant is Invisalign safe?
Yes it is perfectly safe. We normally advise that such elective cosmetic treatments are done post partum.
Can I leave my trays in while I am drinking?
Yes - why not use a straw.
I'm feeling too much pressure or not enough pressure?
As long as your trays are seating properly (i.e. no large gaps) and your dentist has advised the correct times to change then you will be fine. If in doubt just take a picture and ask.
What toothpaste do you recommend for sensitive teeth?
Our favourite is Sensodyne Pro-Enamel, Durphat or Blue M - but speak to your dentist first. Your teeth can look a little yellower during Invisalign but do not worry at the end of your treatment with a good clean and whitening they'll look amazing!
What are elastics and why do they come off?
Sometimes we use small rubber bands to try and pull your teeth together to get a better bite. These bands can be a little annoying and ping off but try to place them back on if possible. If you can't don't worry and just let your dentist know.
Does it affect me swimming, exercising, playing an instrument or being intimate with my partner?
Not that we are aware of.
Do you do payment plans or finance?
We do not offer in house finance as we do not interfere in our patients finances. We would normally avoid recommending specific dental finance companies as they charge a much higher interest and set up rate then seeking a personal loan or 0% credit card transfer.
We do however offer staged pay as you go payment plans that can be modified to suit you and have no interest or set up fees whatsoever so you are just paying for your treatment only.
Example for staged Invisalign payment plan:
Total cost of treatment £4000
Deposit £1000
Fit Appointment £1000
Adjustment appointment 1: £500
Adjustment appointment 2: £500
Adjustment appointment 3: £500
Final debond, polish and retainers appointment: £500
What is the process and timings of Invisalign?
1) You attend for an in person new patient consultation (60 mins)
2) We assess whether any remedial work is needed i.e. if you have decay, broken fillings, gum disease or teeth requiring removal, this must be dealt with first either by us or your referring dentist.
3) We will then take digital scans, photos and run through a consent form (45mins) and go through our suggested treatment plan.
4) We will then submit your case to Invisalign and plan the case.
5) Once we are happy with the plan we may email it to you should you wish for your approval.
6) Invisalign will then manufacture the trays and post them to the clinic (this can take 2-6 weeks on average)
7) You will then attend for a fitting and instruction appointment (45-90 minutes)
8) We will then ask you to send us treatment progress photos every 7-10 days so that we can check everything is going well.
9) We may ask you to come in for a review every 1-2 months for around 15 minutes to do any adjustments or provide more trays.
10) This will continue until the end of treatment and all the trays have been worn (average treatment times vary from 3-18 months).
11) If at the end of your treatment a few additional refinements are needed your dentist may order a few extra ones.
12) Once happy you will have a 90 minute debond appointment where all your attachments will be polished off, your teeth cleaned and bonded and removal retainers given.
13) We will also give you whitening gels should you wish to whiten your teeth.
14) We advise that you wear your removable retainers for 6 months as much as possible and then just to nighttime wear.
15) We advise an annual review to make sure the teeth are stable and the bite is settled (which can taken a minimum of 6-12 months to feel normal again).
10)
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