Our new iTero Element 5D scanner offers cutting edge technology to monitor orthodontic (teeth straightening) treatment. It's innovative near-infrared imaging (NIRI) technology allows our Specialist in orthodontics, Kostas Spathoulas, to scan the internal structure of patients' teeth in real time as three-dimensional (3D) colour images.
Just one 3D scan can reveal an array of powerful images, such as digital impressions for orthodontic and restorative treatment, time lapse technology to monitor orthodontic treatment, outcome simulation to project Invisalign treatment, and assessment of progress during Invisalign treatment.
MedTech Breakthrough is an independent market intelligence organisation that recognises the top technology product companies in the global health and medical technology market. The goal of the MedTech Breakthrough Awards is to honour excellence and recognise innovation, hard work and success in a range of health and medical technology categories. As the iTero Element 5D scanner won best new technology solution in dentistry this year, we have trialled, invested and Kostas Spathoulas, our Specialist, has already been implementing it in his orthodontic treatment plans. You can see what this scanner offers our dentists in iTero's short video below.
Invisalign is a popular solution for discreet teeth straightening involving a series of clear, removable aligners that move teeth predictably into position in around 6–18 months. Invisalign can fix a large range of teeth straightening issues for a wide range of ages, such as overcrowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, crossbites, overbites and underbites. Unlike fixed traditional braces, there are no metal brackets or wires.
Using the advanced iTero Element 5D scanning technology, Kostas Spathoulas, the Specialist in orthodontics at Elmsleigh House, can plan your Invisalign treatment from the initial position of your teeth to the final desired result. You can see your virtual results before you even begin, so you will know how your teeth are expected to look when treatment is complete.
Your series of clear aligners are then custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth. They are made from a strong medical grade thermoplastic material, uniquely developed for the Invisalign system.
Although aligners should be worn all the time they are removable, giving you the flexibility to eat and drink most things during treatment by simply removing them. You can also remove aligners to brush and floss as usual, but you should fit them in place afterwards.
Each aligner is worn for up to two weeks before being replaced by the next in the series, gradually moving your teeth towards the projected final position; your Invisalign treatment timings will be determined by Kostas Spathoulas and will be bespoke to you. The average treatment time is between 6 to 18 months, depending on your specific needs.
Invisalign aligners work by placing controlled levels of movement on the teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign not only controls the amount of movement per aligner, but also the timing of the movement. So at each stage only certain teeth are allowed to move, as per the Invisalign treatment plan for that particular stage as visualised by the iTero Element 5D scanner. This results in an efficient force delivery system that moves teeth into the desired prescribed position.
Kostas Spathoulas will determine whether Invisalign is a suitable solution to straighten or move your teeth into the correct position. He also offers alternative systems to straighten or move children’s and adults’ teeth, and will advise the best system for you.
The vast majority of patients report no effect on speech. However, as with traditional orthodontic appliances, there is an initial period of adjusting to having aligners in your mouth.
Aligners should be worn all the time during treatment, except when eating, brushing or flossing teeth.
You can eat most things during treatment because you remove your aligners to eat and drink; however, we advise to be careful with food such as crusty bread, which can damage the attachments. It is important to brush and floss your teeth after each meal and before reinserting your aligners to maintain effective oral hygiene.
The best way is by brushing and rinsing your aligners in lukewarm water and using cleaning crystals or special cleaning tablets.
If you want your teeth to remain in their ideal position, it is best to wear a retainer as directed by Kostas Spathoulas.
