Invisalign Orthodontist
Cape Town

Orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign, may cause minor changes in speech patterns, but any adjustments needed are typically quick and straightforward. It’s worth noting that traditional metal braces can sometimes lead to speech difficulties, but they can be addressed with proper care and attention from your orthodontist. Conversely, Invisalign is virtually invisible and doesn’t have the same potential for speech difficulties as metal braces, making it a popular choice among patients. Of course, each patient’s needs are unique, so it’s always best to consult your orthodontist to determine which treatment is best for you. 

The average cost of clear aligners in South Africa is R50 000 to R100 000. At OptiSmile, we have payment plans starting at R8000 per month. However, the actual cost will depend on several factors:

1. The severity of your case, it will take longer to be more expensive if you have a more complex issue.
2. The type of aligners: Invisalign vs Invisalign First vs Invisalign Teen.
3. Whether you have insurance/medical aid cover for orthodontics. If you have dental insurance, it will cover at least a part of the cost of your clear aligners. However, if you don’t have insurance, you will be responsible for the entire cost of your treatment.

Invisalign First is designed for children aged 6 to 10, while Invisalign Teen is for older children. Both can treat simple to difficult teeth straightening issues in children, including crowding, spacing and narrow dental arches. In addition, Invisalign is removable for easier hygiene management, making it easier for growing children to brush and floss!

Kids’ after-school activities won’t be affected, and they can remain active in sports like ballet, cricket, soccer, rugby and just about any other sport. In addition, we can order, at no charge, an optional compliance indicator dot. This helps you check your kids wearing time.

The cost of orthodontic braces in South Africa can vary depending on several factors. The type of braces you choose, the severity of your dental problem, and where you get your braces all play a role in figuring out the final cost. However, some general pricing guidelines can give you a promising idea of how much you can expect to pay.

Here are some average costs of braces in South Africa:

• metal braces: R13 000 – R45 000
• ceramic braces: R35 000 – R55 000
• lingual braces: R35 000 – R55 000

These prices are just averages; your final cost will depend on the abovementioned factors.

If you are considering getting braces in South Africa, it is necessary to research and explore all your options, with Invisalign being the preferred solution, due to ease and discretion.

Invisalign clear aligners are a preferred choice for many adults and teenagers due to their inconspicuous nature and flexibility. However, they might not be the perfect solution for everyone. The suitability of Invisalign depends on various factors, including the complexity of your dental issues, your age, and your commitment to the treatment process.

Always consult with your dentist to determine if Invisalign is the right fit for you.

Advantages of Invisalign

• The transparent design makes it nearly invisible, so you don’t have to feel self-conscious about wearing braces.
• Invisalign aligners are removable, which makes it much easier to clean your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene.
• You can eat whatever you want with Invisalign, as there are no food entrapment concerns or restrictions.
• Invisalign is generally more comfortable than traditional braces, as there are no wires or brackets to cause discomfort or irritation.
• The treatment time with Invisalign is often shorter than with traditional braces, depending on the severity of the case.
• You can brush and floss your teeth normally with Invisalign, which helps to maintain good oral health.
• Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly, which ensures the best possible results.
• Invisalign requires fewer office visits than traditional braces, which saves you time and money.
• Invisalign can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild to severe.
• Invisalign is an excellent option for people who want to straighten their teeth without the look and feel of traditional braces.

Disadvantages of Invisalign

• Some discomfort due to continuous tooth adjustment.
• Need to brush after each meal to prevent staining.

Advantages of Braces

• Highly effective for intricate orthodontic cases.
• Being fixed means a reduced risk of misplacement.

Disadvantages of Braces

• When undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to remember that there may be potential discomfort from wires, brackets, or the tooth movement process. Additionally, you may experience challenges with eating specific foods and possible tooth discolouration due to challenges in maintaining dental hygiene should be considered.
• Regular check-ups with your orthodontist are necessary to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned and to make any necessary adjustments. This helps to avoid potential disadvantages.
• Practising good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, is important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease during treatment.
  Some people may experience speech difficulties during the first few weeks of treatment, but this typically improves over time as the mouth adjusts.
• If you participate in sports or other physical activities, wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances is essential.
• In some cases, orthodontic treatment may take longer than initially anticipated, so it’s best to be patient and follow your orthodontist’s instructions closely to achieve the best possible outcome.

1. Prioritise Daily Cleaning

Clean your Invisalign trays every day without fail. A consistent cleaning routine ensures they remain in top condition. Use toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently cleanse both sides of your aligners. Regular cleaning prevents bacterial buildup, which might harm your teeth or potentially affect your overall health.

2. Avoid Abrasives When Cleaning

Avoid abrasive cleaners like mouthwashes, soaps, or any harsh cleaning agents, as they can diminish the transparency of your Invisalign, making it more noticeable. Toothpaste, with its balanced pH and ingredients, is the optimal cleaning medium that won’t damage your aligners.

3. Soak Your Aligners Once Daily

Before storing your aligners, ensure you rinse them to get rid of saliva or plaque. Leaving them uncleaned can turn them into a bacterial haven.

4. Avoid Eating with Invisalign In Place

Eating can cause food particles to get trapped between the aligner and your teeth, which can lead to potential dental issues like cavities or plaque buildup. Furthermore, certain foods, especially those that are hot or highly coloured, can warp or stain the aligners, compromising their effectiveness and appearance. Always remove your Invisalign trays before consuming any food.

5. Store Aligners in Their Case

Always store your aligners in their designated case when they’re not in use. Leaving them out in the open exposes them to contaminants, increases the risk of accidental damage, and makes them easier to misplace.