Are clear aligners and Invisalign the same thing?+
Not quite. Clear aligners is the name of the treatment, and Invisalign is the best-known brand of clear aligner. Several other systems exist. The brand matters far less than how well the case is planned and supervised, and we will recommend the system that suits your teeth rather than the one with the most advertising behind it.
Are mail order or DIY aligners a good idea?+
We would advise against them, and this is worth understanding rather than taking on trust. Moving teeth is a clinical procedure that puts pressure on the roots and the surrounding bone. Without an in-person examination and X-rays, there is no way to know whether your gums are healthy enough or whether existing fillings, crowns or hidden decay will cause problems. Nobody is monitoring the movement as it happens, so if something goes wrong, it goes wrong unsupervised. If cost is the concern, come in for the free consultation, and we will give you a real number to compare against.
How many hours a day do I need to wear them?+
Around 22 hours a day, which means everything except eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing. Wear time is the single biggest factor in whether treatment finishes on schedule, so it is worth being realistic with yourself about it before starting.
Will I need a retainer afterwards?+
Yes, and it is not optional. Teeth drift back toward their original position if nothing holds them. We include retainers in the treatment plan and the quoted price from the start, so there is no surprise cost at the end.
Can aligners fix my teeth, or do I need braces?+
Aligners handle crowding, spacing and mild to moderate rotation very well. Severe rotation, significant bite correction or teeth that need to move a long way are usually better served by fixed braces. A 3D scan at your first visit tells us which category you fall into, and we will give you the honest answer rather than the convenient one.
Do health funds cover clear aligners?+
Many extras policies include orthodontic cover, though limits, waiting periods and lifetime caps vary considerably between funds. We check your specific entitlements before you commit and claim on the spot through HICAPS where the treatment is claimable, so you only pay the gap.
How far are you from Erskineville?+
About ten minutes by car from Erskineville Road, heading north through Macdonaldtown and Darlington, or a couple of stops on the train from Erskineville Station to Redfern followed by a short walk. Street parking is available near the clinic.
Do I need a check-up before starting aligner treatment?+
Yes. Teeth can only be moved safely through healthy gum and bone, so we do a full examination with X-rays first and treat any decay or gum disease before treatment begins. It is a short extra step that prevents much larger problems partway through.