Invisible braces, or clear aligners, can be fitted to the upper and/or lower jaw, and are commonly used to straighten teeth or close any unwanted gaps in between them. There are four main stages to the procedure:
Assessment
During the assessment stage, your dentist is required to review the alignment of your teeth and assess the relationship they have with your jaw. This is done by taking x-rays and impressions, or moulds, of your top and bottom teeth, to be then sent off to a specialist laboratory.
Fabrication
The fabrication stage of the process involves the use of computer software at the laboratory, where a 3D model of your teeth is created in order to simulate the movement of your teeth. In order to achieve the desired result, a number of plastic mouth guards (also known as clear aligners) are produced and sent to your dentist.
Fitting
The fitting of the clear aligners is completed by your dentist, who will advise you how long treatment is expected to take and how the final results will be achieved. In some cases, it can be completed within six months, whereas more complex cases can take around 12-18 months. Your dentist should provide you with both written and verbal instructions explaining how the guards should be worn and the best ways to look after them. It’s likely you will be provided with four mouth guards so they can be changed every two weeks, applying gentle pressure on your teeth to move them into place. Regular check-ups with your dentist will be required in order to ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned.
Aftercare
After your dentist has confirmed that the treatment is complete, you should be supplied with some form of retention to ensure your teeth do not change position further. This can come in the form of a fixed wire, which is cemented to the back of your teeth, or a removable, clear mouth guard to be worn at night.
If you feel this process has not been adhered to by your dentist, contact a member of our team today for free initial legal advice.
Can I make a claim against my dentist if something goes wrong with my invisible braces?
Whilst most patients are happy with their results, unfortunately some people don’t get the outcome they had hoped for when they opt for invisible braces. If your dentist provides incorrect advice, doesn’t give your mouth and jaw a thorough examination prior to fitting or there are no signs of improvement after you have paid for concealed braces, it’s possible you have suffered from dental negligence. In addition to this, if your braces are fitted incorrectly, causing harm to your teeth or gums, your dentist may be guilty of malpractice.
If you think you have been charged too much for your invisible brace treatment, or additional pain has been caused as a result of your dentist’s poor treatment or advice then you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation if you think you have been treated negligently by your dentist.
To speak to a legal professional regarding unsuccessful dental treatment, call the Dental Law Partnership today.
