Frequently Asked Questions...
Do you provide Invisalign treatment?
Yes, we provide InvisalignGo treatment, which is Invisalign for milder issues that are more cosmetic, rather than if teeth would need to be taken out to straighten teeth.
Who will do the treatment?
Treatment is done by Dr Rebecca Nutter, please head over to our Our Team page to find out more information about Rebecca.
Can anyone have this done?
No, treatment is offered to patients over the age of 18, and an assessment is done to check that your teeth aren’t too complex for the InvisalignGo system. We can advise what to do if we aren’t able to straighten your teeth with this, which often involves referral to an orthodontic specialist.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear, customised, plastic aligners or ‘trays’ that look a bit like a clear retainer. These are changed weekly and gradually move your teeth into positions that look better. This is often straightening them, but it can also bring teeth together to close spaces if this is your concern.
How long does it take?
Typically treatment is 6-12 months, but it is unique to each patient. Some patients can have their teeth straightened in as little as 4 months, but a more accurate timescale is given once you have had your consultation. This is always an estimate, as there are factors that affect the time, including how strict you are with wearing the aligners- they must be worn for at least 22 hours per day otherwise teeth will not move as planned.
How much does it cost?
For a single arch (top OR bottom teeth): £2500
For both arches (top AND bottom teeth): £3000
What does this include?
This includes all appointments, and 3 pairs of retainers to wear after treatment.
Do you have to pay at the start?
No. Although we don’t offer finance plans, we can stagger the cost so that you can divide it into monthly payments to make it more manageable.
How long do you have to wear retainers for?
Forever! For the first 6 months, 22 hours per day like Invisalign, then just at night (for 8 hours). If you stop wearing your retainers, your teeth won’t stay in position.
How long do retainers last?
Each retainer will last approximately 12 months if well cared for (and sometimes longer), so you will have a 3 year supply of retainers. After this, charges apply to order new retainers. Your dentist will let you know exactly how much this costs prior to treatment.
Will I need to have teeth taken out?
No, InvisalignGo treatment does not involve extractions. If this is needed to straighten your teeth, it is usually undertaken by an orthodontic specialist.
Is treatment painful?
Occasionally when new aligners are first used it can be uncomfortable and feel ‘tight’, especially with the first aligners. However, this lasts approximately 24 hours.
How much is a consultation?
Consultations are free, and this will involve a discussion about treatment options and some photographs which will give a better idea of whether InvisalignGo is appropriate for you.
How do I know what my teeth will look like?
If you decide to go to the next stage of treatment, impressions are taken and sent to Invisalign. At this stage an x-ray is also taken to check that your teeth are strong enough for treatment. A digital treatment plan is generated so that you can view this with your dentist. This will show how your teeth will move each week, giving you a ‘before and after’ view of your teeth.
A fee of £150 is charged when impressions are sent, which is deducted from your overall treatment cost. It is not refunded if you change your mind about treatment.
Do I need a check up first?
Yes, we do require you to be ‘dentally fit’ prior to treatment. This means that if you are not already a patient at this practice, you must have had a full check up with your dentist in the last 6- 12 months. The dentist providing your Invisalign treatment is not responsible for your general dental care and we must stress that routine appointments must be maintained with your regular dentist.
Can I still whiten my teeth?
Yes, and the cost of whitening treatment is significantly reduced. Instead of £350, the charge is £80 and your aligners or retainers can be used instead of whitening trays so it will not prolong your Invisalign treatment.