Does Invisalign have permanent results?

We recently spoke with highly esteemed London-based orthodontist, Dr Chaw-Su Kyi, to discuss the success rate of Invisalign, and whether or not the dental treatment has permanent results for patients who decide to undergo the treatment. 

What is the success rate of Invisalign?

The overall success depends on two very important factors. Firstly, it depends on the correct treatment planning. Before even starting treatment, we are already looking ahead to the end result.

So, when I am assessing a patient, I am looking at how their teeth are, and then planning what changes we need to make. We need to make sure here that these changes are made in harmony with the patient’s soft tissues and their facial profile.

The second really important factor in the overall success of Invisalign is patient motivation. We are asking patients to wear something in their mouth pretty much 24/7. So, patient motivation is a huge factor when it comes to making sure that Invisalign treatment is successful.

How long does it take to see results from Invisalign?

Usually, by the time patients come in for their second review, they will have started to notice a difference. Each Invisalign tray will move the teeth a small amount. Patients will definitely notice a difference within the first three to four months, in relation to a change in their smile and an overall change in the teeth.

Does Invisalign have permanent results?

We would not offer treatment if it did not have long-lasting, stable, and healthy results, so yes, Invisalign will definitely have long-lasting results for our patients.

Should people wear retainers after their Invisalign treatment is finished?

Retainers really are the core to the success of this treatment, as well as providing long-lasting results. As soon as the treatment is finished and the brace is removed, the teeth are kind of like an elastic band. Once you finish the treatment and you don’t hold anything in the teeth’s position, there is a very high risk of relapse.

Retainers will help guide the teeth, the roots, the gums, and the soft tissues, and will allow the bone to hold the teeth in their new positions. Retainers are essential for every type of brace treatment.

What are the main success stories from Invisalign?

For me, it has been incredible to see how Invisalign has transformed how people feel about themselves, how it has totally transformed their smiles, and their self-confidence. It is incredible to see patients be able to express their emotions and smile care-free. After having Invisalign treatment, patients show a complete change in their demeanour and overall self-confidence.

Dr Chaw-Su Kyi is a leading orthodontist who is an expert in dental treatments such as Invisalign. If you are considering Invisalign, contact her to book a consultation via her Top Doctors profile today.