Invisalign Go: All You Need to Know

If a straighter smile is top of your resolutions list, there are now plenty of clear and minimally invasive options to consider.

Invisalign Go is the latest system that straightens teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners which are custom-made for your mouth. The aligners are removable and virtually invisible.

Dr Jennifer Collins, our clinical director, answers your most common questions about what to expect from Invisalign Go.

Q: Is Invisalign Go right for me?

A: Invisalign Go is an ideal treatment option for patients wishing to correct mild overcrowding, gaps or alignment issues with the front ten teeth. It is typically not recommended for more complex orthodontic cases. Invisalign Go Plus is a more advanced form of Invisalign treatment designed to move the front twelve teeth.

Q: How long will treatment take?

A: This depends on the degree of movement that your teeth require. For best results, Invisalign Go aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours each day. The treatment time varies from patient to patient but it can be as short as 3-6 months.

Q: How many appointments will I need?

A: As the aligners are built from a 3D scan of your teeth in a lab, progress visits are kept to a minimum, approximately every 4-6 weeks.

Q: Is Invisalign Go treatment painful?

A: Although an aligner may feel a little tight at the start of an alignment step and the teeth can be a bit tender at times, the aligners are comfortable to wear and very well tolerated by patients. They also eliminate the discomfort associated with sharp wires and the tightening of traditional metal braces.

Q: Can I eat and drink as normal during treatment?

A: You can remove your aligners to eat and drink. You also need to brush your teeth before replacing aligners, to help keep your teeth and gums healthy and to prevent staining.

Q: Will my speech be affected while wearing aligners?

A: It may take a day or two for your tongue and mouth to adapt, making some ‘s’ and ‘z’ sounds difficult to pronounce at first. Generally, after a very short time, people can speak normally with their aligners in.

Q: Is it possible for the aligners to fall out?

A: Your Invisalign Go aligners are custom-designed to fit your teeth snugly, so it will not be possible for them to accidentally fall out when you talk, laugh or sleep. Your dentist will also put attachments onto your teeth which will help keep the aligners in place.

Q: Can I go to any dentist for Invisalign Go treatment?
A: No, only dentists who have completed specialised Invisalign Go training are permitted to perform Invisalign Go treatments on patients.

Invisalign Go consultations are currently available at Dental Care Ireland in Virginia, Tuam, Ashbourne, Claregalway and Ballsbridge. To book an appointment, contact us here