Author: Aura Dental
Ask George…about Invisalign
George Angelidakis, our resident Invisalign Specialist answers your questions about Invisalign.
Over the past month we asked our 
Invisalign patients what questions they wanted to have answered before deciding to get Invisalign. Here are the top 5 queries they raised…
1.How is Invisalign different from braces?
Invisalign is a removable device called an aligner, similar to a mouth guard but less bulky. It appears near invisible when in your mouth and after a few days getting used to it, you’ll hardly notice it. You can remove the aligner when you eat, brush your teeth and in extreme cases such as a significant event. Apart from these occasions, the aligners must be worn as directed to make sure your treatment is not prolonged.
Fixed braces require brackets to be bonded to each individual tooth using wires and rubber bands to move your teeth. A bit more care and attention is required for fixed braces to avoid breakages to brackets or wires (usually done while eating!), which will prolong your treatment. Also, fixed braces promote food packing (getting caught in crevasses around the bracket) during every meal and this can compromise or affect your oral hygiene. Clear, aesthetic braces are available today that can significantly improve aesthetics during the treatment, however, they are still more noticeable and bulkier than an Invisalign aligner.
There are certain cases where one or the other is more appropriate. We will assess your personal circumstances and advice on the best options for you.
A very happy patient wanting to show off her new smile:
2. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?
Pros:
- Nearly invisible
- Can be removed while eating, brushing teeth and in extreme cases for significant events
- Less likelihood of breakages and need for emergency visits
- Ideal for those with busy schedules and frequent travel
- Before and after result can be previewed via digital simulation
- Oral Hygiene is kept ideal throughout the treatment as the aligners are removed during meals and you are able to floss and keep the interdental spaces clean.
- Very safe, as the aligners apply mild pressure on the teeth to be moved.
Cons:
- Not suitable for all cases. Sometimes a fixed braces may be required
- Requires self discipline to ensure aligners are worn at all times
- Cost can be slightly higher than fixed braces depending on the complexity of the treatment
3. How does it work?
You will start by having a comprehensive check up with x-rays to ensure you are suitable for the treatment. If suitable, Invisalign will digitally model your teeth and using 3-D technology, simulate the movement of your teeth over a period of time. The appropriate number of Invisalign aligners will be determined and your dentist will advise you when each one needs to worn and for how long.
Each aligner will adjust your teeth to prepare for the next aligner. Every time you change your aligner, it will feel tighter at first, but you will subside after a few days as your teeth adjustment further.
Is it George or the patient who has just finished Invisalign treatment?:
4. How long does it take and how do I make sure my teeth don’t move when I’m finished?
Very generally speaking, the treatment will usually last between 3 and 9 months. Discipline in wearing the aligners will determine the length of your Invisalign treatment. If you wear them 22-23 hours a day except for eating, drinking and brushing your teeth, your treatment should take the amount of time determined in your 3D simulation.
The state of your hygiene can also affect the length of your treatment. It is very important that you undergo regular hygiene cleans throughout your Invisalign treatment to avoid delays.
Good ongoing oral hygiene is also important after your treatment to prevent your teeth from moving again. Build up of plaque on your teeth can cause small movements, particularly in the first few months after your treatment has finished. You will need either a fixed retainer (a small wire stuck to the back of your teeth) and/or a removable retainer (much like the Invisalign aligner and worn at night usually) to prevent your teeth trying to move back to their original positions.
5. How much will it cost?
The final cost of your treatment depends on the complexity of your case. The simpler the case the lower the cost is likely to be. You should also take into account the need for regular hygiene cleans throughout your treatment.
At Aura Dental, Invisalign prices start from £1599 for simple cases. However adult Invisalign treatment will often fall between £2,500 and £5,000. The cost of your initial consultation (£75 plus x-rays) will be incorporated into this if you choose to proceed with the treatment. Hygiene cleans can be added on as directed (regular clean is £70; deep clean is £95).
We do appreciate that that these are not small amounts of money, but they are an investment in your smile, which you will be with you forever. There will be a low cost financing options that can help you spread the cost of your treatment over time.
If you are interested in Invisalign, come and see us at Aura Dental in St Johns Wood. Our Treatment Coordinator, Nadia can also answer your questions about treatment and financing options. Hope to see you soon!
W: www.auradentallondon.com | E: [email protected] | T: 020 7722 0040
A smile to show off?
Do you feel comfortable smiling? Or do you avoid photographs and worry about interacting with others? Even if you care for your teeth well and have good dental health, you may wish that your appearance was more attractive. Chipped, broken, missing, misaligned or discoloured teeth can be uncomfortable and contribute to you feeling unhappy with how you look. This can really affect your quality of life, as it constantly undermines the enjoyment you feel and how you express yourself. At Aura Dental in St John’s Wood, cosmetic dentistry allows you to look and feel great.
Solutions for brighter smiles
There is no need to suffer with discomfort or feelings of embarrassment or dissatisfaction any more. For many of our patients in St John’s Wood, cosmetic dentistry has proved life changing. This branch of dental care is the art of making your smile more attractive using a variety of techniques to repair damage, realign your teeth or improve their appearance. Some procedures can also improve your oral health as they make your teeth easier to clean, stronger or more stable. We are proud to offer a friendly, empathetic and highly skilled service so that you get the results you want in a way which suits you.
Cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood
Our team have helped many patients achieve the smile of their dreams with cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood. We offer a full range of options from teeth whitening and dental veneers to white fillings and braces. We can also discuss treatments such as dental implants, bridges, dentures or crowns with you. Modern techniques mean that treatment is faster, more comfortable and less obtrusive than ever before. For example, choosing clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces allows you to have straighter teeth without having to wear ugly train tracks for months. We can enhance the appearance, condition, colour and placement of your teeth for a beaming smile.
Give yourself the gift of a beautiful smile and see how cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood can help you. Get in touch with our experienced team today to discuss how changing your smile can change your life.
New Talent and Expertise At Aura Dental
George enjoys all aspects of dentistry with a special interest in Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry, Dental Implants, Cosmetic Clear Orthodontics and Facial Aesthetics, including Botox Anti-Wrinkle Injections and dermal fillers, to help his patients achieve a more youthful appearance and boost their self confidence.
He is a certified Invisalign, Inman Aligner and Cfast Clear Braces provider.
Using his combined knowledge and a comprehensive approach, he has gained an excellent reputation in “Designing Enhanced Smiles” for those inspired to change their look or cosmetic dental appearance.
Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, European Academy of Osseointegration and Faculty of General Dental Practice(UK).
Apart from Dentistry George enjoys traveling, watching movies and playing sports.
Are crooked teeth getting you down?
If you have crowded, widely spaced or misaligned teeth, you may find yourself hiding your smile, feeling self-conscious in social situations or shying away from the camera. If your teeth are very crooked, then you may even be experiencing problems with eating or speaking. At Aura Dental in North West London, braces have allowed many people benefit from having straighter teeth. Not only does this contribute to an enhanced appearance, it also improves the health of your mouth as correctly positioned teeth have fewer gaps for plaque to accumulate in and are easier to clean.
Braces are not for me
Many adults who missed out on corrective treatment as a child associate braces with metal train tracks and dismiss the idea due to concerns that they will be uncomfortable, time-consuming, inconvenient or unsightly. Thanks to modern techniques, we can offer braces in North West London to fit in with every lifestyle. Procedures now are faster, more comfortable and less obtrusive than ever so everyone can experience the joy of having straighter teeth.
A new smile in six months?
It seems too good to be true but if you have mild to moderate problems, a system called Six Month Smiles could be for you. Tooth-coloured wires and clear brackets mean that the braces are very discreet and, because they focus on the front teeth, treatment can be very quick. Another option if you are looking for braces in North West London is Invisalign. This process uses a series of almost invisible clear aligners which carefully guide your teeth into the desired position. The aligners are individually made to fit your teeth and made of smooth plastic so are very comfortable. The Inman Aligner is also clear but contains special metal springs and bows which create gentle forces to move the teeth. Both the Invisalign and Inman aligners are removeable for eating and cleaning. If the alignment of your front teeth in the top and bottom jaws need correction, then CFast braces are a minimally invasive and fast option.
Give yourself the gift of a more attractive smile and find out how we can help you with braces in North West London.
Let’s improve your smile
We live in a truly amazing age, although sometimes it’s easy to forget. We take for granted so many of the technologies and techniques that transform our lives for the better, like cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood is better than it has ever been, allowing you to do things that you never would have thought possible. Here at Aura Dental, we provide a comprehensive range of modern cosmetic dental treatments.
Veneers
Would you like a brighter and whiter smile? Most people would because an improved smile comes with many advantages. You can feel more confident and more able to smile often, which can make you feel happier and laugh more freely.
Veneers are thin but strong ceramic shells that are fitted to the fronts of your teeth. They can be used to reshape your teeth, repair damage and more. Chipped, cracked, stained or misshapen teeth can all be effectively disguised with veneers.
Not only are they versatile, they are strong too. They are longer lasting for whiter teeth than teeth whitening, more durable than dental bonding when it comes to tackling gaps in your teeth and a faster way to achieve a smile full of straight teeth than braces.
With cosmetic dentistry in St Johns Wood, veneers provide a perfect accessory to every outfit: a winning smile. The benefits of a new smile are often underestimated. A smile is the first thing people notice about you and at Aura Dental we can make sure it’s the last thing they’ll ever forget. In just 2 visits to our friendly practice, you can transform your teeth.
Professional teeth whitening
This is our most requested cosmetic treatment for whitening teeth and also the most cost-effective. Teeth whitening is carried out by our professional dentists and includes popular procedures such as the Zoom Whitening System and Enlighten. Our dentist will apply a protective gel around your mouth, lips and gums. A whitening gel is then applied to your teeth. A special light is used to activate this. It causes the whitening gel to bleach the enamel of your teeth, leaving them whiter and brighter.
So call us today for the smile you’ve always wanted with cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood.
Lifelong dental health with Aura Dental
We know you have a choice when selecting dentists in St John’s Wood for you and your family’s needs. We also know that when you choose Aura Dental you will be making the right choice. Here’s why.
Our focus is on treating you like family, in fact many of our patients are our families and friends and we extend the same concern to each patient we see. We also believe that a dental visit doesn’t have to be unpleasant or uncomfortable anymore. We use modern technologies to make your visit relaxing. Our new premises have been carefully designed with beautiful interior décor to help you relax and eliminate stress, leaving you with a sense of calmness.
Everything under one roof
Many dental practices only offer basic dental care. If you need to replace missing teeth, straighten your teeth, remove painful teeth or get rid of a toothache, you sometimes have to go to a distant and unfamiliar dentist.
We know you are busy and would rather get everything done in the same familiar, caring and convenient practice. That’s why we have invested in our equipment, technology and dentists in St John’s Wood, to ensure we can take care of all your needs under one roof.
Dr Tissera
Our principal dentist here at Aura Dental is Dr David Tissera. He qualified from King’s College School of Medicine & Dentistry London in 1997 and offers every patient his knowledge of 20 years’ dental expertise.
He is a highly experienced and professional dental surgeon, who has been in private practice for over 18 years. He has a keen interest in cosmetic and implant dentistry and performing smile makeovers. He is also experienced in adult teeth straightening using a variety of systems available at our practice, including Six Months Smiles, CFast and the Inman Aligner.
He believes that all the dentists in St John’s Wood must provide high quality dental care in a caring environment, using the most up to date tools available.
Being a dedicated and calming dentist has enabled Dr Tissera to grow a loyal patient base over his two decades’ experience, based almost solely on personal recommendation.
Let us straighten you out
An increasing number of adults are turning to cosmetic braces to give their teeth a straighter, more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Braces are no longer the domain of teenagers and children. Instead, busy professionals are choosing to correct imperfections, such as crooked or spaced teeth, which may have bothered them for years. Braces in North West London at Aura Dental could change your life forever. You may be thinking you don’t want to wear metal braces for the next few years. Well, don’t worry, we can offer you more aesthetically pleasing options for your braces in North West London. Our dentists can fit you with alternatives that will give you a beautiful smile just as conventional braces will, but without compromising your appearance during your treatment. So let’s take a look at a few of your options.
Invisalign
Invisalign offers our patients a series of clear, removable aligners that are changed every 2 to 3 weeks. There is no tightening to be done, no adjusting of wires and no elastic bands to get in the way. Instead, all the adjustments are made with one new aligner every few weeks. Since the aligners are clear, they are hardly visible in the mouth, which means people aren’t likely to guess that you are wearing braces.
Each aligner is individually moulded to specifically fit snugly against your teeth, making Invisalign a more comfortable treatment than conventional fixed metal braces in North West London. With comfort and discretion, you can look forward to a new smile during your treatment instead of fretting over your appearance.
Inman aligner
The Inman aligner is a removable brace, which can be used to align the front teeth quickly, effectively and safely. It can work either as a stand-alone treatment, or even as a pre-treatment to allow other cosmetic work to go ahead, such as fitting dental veneers. It works by exerting a gentle force on just your front teeth, known as the ‘social six’, to gradually move them into the desired positions. Normally lower front teeth move a little faster than uppers.
Choose us for your braces in North West London and call Aura Dental today. Our dentists are waiting to discuss your options with you and design a tailored treatment plan.
Aura Dental in the community: Check in at Aura Dental and help us support St Johns Hospice
Yesterday was a special day for the Aura Team. We had a chance to visit the St John’s Hospice, a local charity we have been supporting for quite some time. Our receptionists Patrycja and Pubudu and dental nurse Mihaela met with the lovely hospice’s representative – Malina and seen first hand the amazing work put in by all the volunteers at the hospice and all the difference it is making to to the lives of their patients and community as a whole
The remarkable people at St John’s Hospice provide the end of life care to more than 3000 terminally ill patients and their carers a year. The continuous existence of the Hospice heavily depends on support from the local businesses and people.
The hospice currently has 19 in patient beds, Hospice at home service, Day Centre, Bereavement services and many more including its very own St John’s Hospice ambulance. To continue to provide this level of support to our community, the hospice needs to raise £1.8 million every year in voluntary donations.
At Aura, we strongly believe it is essential for places like this to exist as they represent the very core of our community and bring us closer together. This is why, we continue to spread the word about St John’s Hospice amongst our patients and do all we can to encourage people to support this great cause.
Every time you visit Aura and check-in on Facebook followed by a review, we know you are with us on this and we will happily donate one pound of our money to the Hospice on your behalf.
Happy Easter to all of our lovely patients and staff!
I have missing teeth, what can I do?
Here at Aura Dental we care about tooth loss. Teeth are lost for several reasons and people who have lost one or multiple teeth may feel too self-conscious to smile or talk in public. Additionally, biting irregularities caused by tooth loss can have a negative effect on eating habits, leading to further health problems.
Whatever the nature of the problem related to your tooth loss, dental implants in North West London can provide an effective remedy. We do not want finance to be a barrier to a healthier smile, so we offer a free consultation for your dental implants in North West London.
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed directly into the jawbone. Your jawbone then fuses to the implant as new bone meshes around it. This process is similar to what happens when a broken bone heals. In that case, a plaster cast supports the limb to stop the two ends of the bone moving. The equivalent of this with dental implants in North West London, is the screw thread of the titanium post, which stabilises the implant in the jawbone.
It is generally safest not to put any load on your implant until it has fully integrated into your jawbone, which usually takes between 6 to 8 weeks. Once it has fully integrated, your replacement teeth can be attached to the post.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Dental implants in North West London have many advantages: they are stronger and more durable than alternatives such as removable bridges and dentures. They also offer a permanent, fixed solution to tooth loss.
Studies have shown a success rate of 95% for lower jaw implants and 90% for those in the upper jaw.
How long do they usually last?
This depends on the quality and quantity of jawbone available at the time of dental implant placement, the healing response following treatment and your dental hygiene practices. Once fully integrated dental implants in North West London should last for years to come and potentially a lifetime, with the right care and attention.
Smile Story
Smile Story – Pubudu Rupasinghe
One of our own, Pubudu from our Admin team had fixed braces put on in June 2016 to straighten his teeth. After completing his treatment, he talks about the impact it has had on his life…
“I used my hand to cover my mouth every time I smiled so that no one could see them.”
Ever since I was little my teeth were really crooked. I was always ashamed to smile because I didn’t like my teeth. I used my hand to cover my mouth every time I smiled so that no one could see them. I envied people who have straight teeth and would always dream of having teeth like theirs.
I had been to many dentists in London and Milan, where I used to live and they all told me I would need expensive maxillofacial surgery, teeth removed and a very expensive course of treatment. When I started working at Aura, I spoke to David and Maggie about my options and they recommended fixed braces and something called a quad helix to help expand my jaw…no maxillofacial surgery required and no teeth removed!
I was so happy to be given an option that I could afford and would not mean breaking my jaw! I was told that having braces might be painful at times but I didn’t care because I told to myself that I was ready to do anything. I had waited so long to get my teeth fixed that if I had to bear a bit of temporary pain to relieve the emotional pain I have felt for years, I could manage with it.
“I’m not afraid anymore about the thought that other people can see my teeth and judge my smile.”
Now that I have removed my braces I’m smiling all the time, sometimes like a fool just to show my teeth! I’m not afraid anymore about the thought that other people can see my teeth and judge my smile. I also stopped using my hand to cover my mouth when I’m talking to people. I really discovered the thrill of how it feels to laugh without worrying about the fact that other people can see my smile.
I would definitely recommend braces for people looking to get their teeth straightened. Sometimes people don’t feel comfortable with what they have and fantasise about how their lives would be different if they will be able to change their smile. I had that opportunity and I will be thankful for all my life to the Aura Dental.