Invisible Braces – The Clearstep System
The Inman aligner is a removable orthodontic appliance that has been around for several years to treat problems with alignment of your front teeth. They have become popular recently due to the recent media attention that they have received as a cosmetic treatment.
When compared to the invisible braces (Clear Aligners) such as the Invisalign system, the Inman aligner is also more cost effective.
- They are an alternative to invisible braces
- Only one appliance is required – no need to change every 2 weeks
- Results are usually faster than fixed or invisible braces –generally between 6 to16 weeks treatment time.
- They can be easily removed to eat and clean your teeth
- The Inman aligner is generally much cheaper than alternative methods of moving teeth.
Is the Inman Aligner new?
The Inman aligner has been used for over 8 years to treat orthodontic problems, it is a very popular treatment in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity here in the UK.
Inman Aligner incorporates tiny Nickel Titanium springs that are able to maintain a higher constant tension. It is used for treating the top and bottom front teeth only.
The treatment time is usually faster than clear braces.
Is the treatment uncomfortable?
No. Due to the gentle but steady orthodontic pressure, the appliances are easily tolerated.
Will I need to visit the practice frequently for adjustments?
The Inman Aligners are pre-programmed to reduce the need numerous visits to the practice, unlike other orthodontic treatments. We will prescribe a treatment tailored to your individual needs. The Inman Aligner utilises a lingual coil spring that puts pressure on the teeth that need repositioning and a labial bar that reverses the same pressure. These components work together to “squeeze” teeth together by pushing and pulling them into alignment.
How long do I need to wear the Inman Aligner for?
You have the option of not wearing the appliance, however, the longer you wear the Inman Aligner the quicker the results. It is recommended that you wear the appliance for at least 16 to 20 hours a day.
Won’t my teeth move back after my treatment is completed?
Retaining the teeth with an retainer is a very important part of any orthodontic treatment as teeth have a natural tendency to return back to their original position. A removable retainer is worn overnight for 4-5 nights a week and then phased down over time to 2-3 nights a week. A fixed retainer can be bonded to the back of the front teeth to retain the result. Further information can be found on www.inmanaligner.com
What is involved?
Initially I will have a chat with you to determine whether this is suitable for you and for you to tell us what you’d like to achieve.
Following this we will arrange for your assessment – this involves taking some photographs and impressions of your teeth You will be provided with your own report detailing all your treatment options wich we can then discuss in more detail. Once you are satisfied with the treatment plan then we can begin to straighten your teeth.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners or clear positioners are transparent appliances used to straighten mildly misaligned teeth. They are wafer thin and made of a transparent medical grade plastic. They are designed so that you wear each positioner for approximately two weeks.Little by little they gently move your teeth from their present to your desired position, as you work through the steps.
Following treatment the teeth are retained in position using a retainer as one would for any orthodontic treatment