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The Technology Behind Invisalign: How Aligners Are Made

Orthodontic solutions like braces and plates have a reputation for being uncomfortable and invasive. They also have a distinct visual appearance that some people find offputting, especially if they work in a professional environment.

That’s why Invisalign aligners have emerged as an attractive alternative. Removable, virtually invisible and made from smooth, comfortable material, Invisalign is an easier way to get your perfect smile.

In this blog, we examine the different elements of Invisalign technology, how Invisalign are made, and the benefits of selecting an Invisalign system to achieve your orthodontic goals.

What is Invisalign Technology?

Invisalign was developed in the late 1990s by Align Technology, a global medical device company founded in California, USA.

Invisalign Aligners

Custom-made from thermoplastic polymers, Invisalign aligner trays are moulded to your teeth and sit on top of them, like retainers. They’re clear, discreet and significantly less noticeable than traditional orthodontic treatments like braces or plates.

When your aligners are fitted, your dentist will provide you with a set of additional Invisalign trays. Each tray is designed to progressively adjust the alignment of your teeth. You’ll need to change trays every two weeks to ensure your adjustment remains on track.

Invisalign aligners are worn virtually 24/7. You should only take them out for cleaning and when you’re eating or drinking anything other than water.

Invisalign Attachments

During your initial consultation, your dentist may also determine that you require Invisalign attachments. These are small pieces of tooth-coloured resin that’re strategically bonded to specific teeth. When you wear your Invisalign trays over these attachments, they help direct pressure to achieve targeted results that may not be possible with the trays alone.

For example, Invisalign attachments can be used for:

Rotating teeth
Moving teeth further in/out of the jaw
Correcting complex bite issues
Achieving precise tooth control

How are Invisalign Aligners Made?

Invisalign technology uses digital scans and proprietary software to create your bespoke treatment plan.

Step 1

First, your teeth will need to undergo a 3D digital scan. This scan helps to assess their current placement and is the basis upon which your dentist will develop your Invisalign plan.

Step 2

Next, your dentist will upload the scan results into Align Technology’s ClinCheck software, which generates your treatment plan. The plan will detail the series of small changes that need to occur over the course of your treatment period to achieve your desired outcome. It will also show you a visual representation of the predicted treatment result, i.e. your new smile.

Each small adjustment corresponds to a new aligner tray. You’ll be provided with a series of trays, so you don’t need to return to the dentist for each new set.

Step 3

Finally, your aligners will be created using 3D printing technology. Aligners are made from a thermoplastic material called SmartTrack. Each set of aligners will be trimmed to suit your gum line and ensure maximum comfort. They come labelled in sequence, so you’ll always know which set is next.

Why Choose an Invisalign System?

Compared to more invasive treatments like braces or plates, an Invisalign system features the following benefits:

Close to invisible
Comfortable, removable and easy to clean
Precise results through Invisalign’s 3D imaging technology
Less expensive and fewer dentist appointments

Similarly, Invisalign attachments are also more comfortable and discreet in appearance than traditional orthodontic solutions, and allow for a highly targeted approach to tooth alignment.