Invisalign® clear aligners in Hobart
Crooked, crowded or gappy teeth can affect more than your smile. They can be harder to clean, wear unevenly and put extra strain on your bite. At North Hobart Dental we straighten teeth with Invisalign® clear aligners: a series of custom-made, removable trays that gradually move your teeth into position.
Many adults who missed out on orthodontics as a teenager, or whose teeth have shifted over time, find Invisalign a practical option. The aligners are discreet enough for work and social life, and they fit around your routine. We’re an experienced Invisalign provider and have helped many North Hobart patients achieve straighter smiles.
What can Invisalign treat?
Invisalign can correct many common problems, including:
- Crowding: teeth overlapping or twisted because there isn’t enough room
- Spacing: gaps between teeth
- Tilted or rotated teeth
- Crossbite: some upper teeth sitting inside the lower teeth when you bite
- Overjet: upper front teeth sticking out well past the lower teeth
- Deep bite: upper front teeth covering too much of the lower teeth
- Relapse: teeth that have moved since earlier braces
Not every case suits aligners. Some complex bite or jaw problems are better treated with fixed braces or by a specialist orthodontist. We’ll give you an honest assessment of your options.
Why patients choose Invisalign
- Discreet. The aligners are made from clear plastic, so they’re much less noticeable than metal braces.
- Removable. You take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, brush and floss, so there are no food restrictions.
- Comfortable. There are no brackets or wires to rub on your cheeks or lips.
- Planned in advance. We use a digital scan to map out your treatment before you start, so you can see a preview of how your teeth are planned to move.
- Fewer emergency visits. There are no broken brackets or poking wires to fix.
How treatment works
- Free Invisalign assessment. Your first visit is a no-cost assessment to see whether Invisalign is a suitable option for you. We’ll look at your teeth and talk about what you’d like to change. We’ll also explain what’s involved in treatment, how long it’s likely to take and what it will cost. There’s no obligation to proceed. If you decide to go ahead, any x-rays, scans and treatment are quoted separately.
- Digital scan and treatment plan. We take a 3D scan of your teeth (no messy impressions) and design your treatment plan. You’ll see the planned tooth movement and receive a written quote before committing.
- Wearing your aligners. You wear your aligners for about 20–22 hours a day and move to a new set every week or two, as directed.
- Review visits. We see you regularly throughout treatment to check your progress.
- Retainers. Once your teeth are in their new position, you’ll wear a retainer to keep them there. This step is essential, because teeth naturally try to drift back.
How long does it take?
It depends on how much movement is needed. Minor corrections can take a few months. More involved cases usually take 12–18 months or longer. We’ll give you an estimated timeframe at your free assessment.
What does it cost?
Cost depends on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. We’ll go through costs at your free assessment, and you’ll receive a written quote before starting. Some private health extras policies include orthodontic cover, so it’s worth checking with your fund.
Orthodontics for children and teens
We recommend an orthodontic check from around age 7, while the jaw is still growing. Some problems are easier to correct, or can be guided, when caught early. We monitor tooth development at your child’s regular check-ups. If we see crowding or bite issues, we’ll talk you through the options, including referral to a specialist orthodontist where appropriate. See Children’s Dentistry.
Working with specialist orthodontists
Our dentists are general dentists who provide Invisalign treatment. For complex cases, or where fixed braces or jaw growth management are the better option, we work closely with specialist orthodontists in Hobart. We’ll refer you and stay involved in your ongoing dental care.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
You may feel some pressure or mild tenderness for a day or two when you start a new set of aligners. That’s a sign they’re working. Most people find it very manageable.
Can I eat and drink with my aligners in?
Take them out to eat and to drink anything other than plain water. Brush before putting them back in, so food and sugar aren’t trapped against your teeth.
Will it affect my speech?
Some people have a slight lisp for the first few days. It usually settles quickly as your tongue adjusts.
What happens if I don’t wear them enough?
Aligners only work while they’re in. Wearing them for less than the recommended time can slow your progress or mean extra aligners are needed.
Do I need to wear a retainer afterwards?
Yes. Teeth can move throughout life, so retainers are the key to keeping your results. We’ll explain the best retainer option for you.
Book your free Invisalign assessment online or call us on (03) 6234 9322
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