20
Jun
Crystal Clear Confidence – Uncovering the Materials Behind Your Invisalign Aligners
Welcome to Positive Image Dental, where Drs. Ian Campbell, Christopher Allington, Lara Loescher, and Faraz in Devonshire, Bermuda, are committed to helping you achieve a smile you can truly be proud of. At our modern Devonshire Place office, we offer Invisalign treatment as a discreet and comfortable way to straighten teeth without traditional metal braces. Today, we dive into five questions you may not think to ask about the materials used in crafting your Invisalign aligners. Understanding what goes into these virtually invisible trays can help you feel more confident and informed on your journey to a healthier, more radiant smile.
What kind of plastic is used to make Invisalign aligners, and why is it chosen?
Invisalign aligners are made from a proprietary medical-grade thermoplastic material called SmartTrack. This specially formulated plastic is designed to fit snugly over your teeth while maintaining enough flexibility to gently guide your teeth into the desired position. SmartTrack offers a unique balance of strength and elasticity, so the aligners apply consistent force without cracking or warping over the course of treatment.
How safe is the aligner material for long-term wear?
The SmartTrack material has been extensively tested for biocompatibility and safety. It is free from BPA, phthalates, and latex, two substances that can raise health concerns in some patients. All materials used in Invisalign aligners meet strict regulatory standards for medical devices, ensuring that wearing them for 20-22 hours daily poses no risk to your oral or overall health.
Can the clear plastic pick up odors or stains from food and drinks?
While SmartTrack is engineered for comfort and clarity, it is still plastic and can absorb pigments from foods like curry or tomato sauce if you leave aligners in during meals. We recommend removing your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water and rinsing them gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water after each removal. This simple routine helps prevent staining and maintains that signature Invisalign transparency.
Is the material recyclable or eco-friendly?
Invisalign aligners are single-use and are replaced approximately every one to two weeks as your treatment progresses. Although they are not currently recyclable through standard curbside programs, Align Technology, the maker of Invisalign, has launched a recycling initiative. You can return your used aligners by mail through the official Invisalign website for proper recycling. This effort helps reduce plastic waste and aligns with Positive Image Dental’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
How does the aligner material respond to temperature changes?
SmartTrack is designed to stay stable within the normal temperature range of your mouth and the surrounding environment. However, exposing your aligners to high temperatures, such as hot water or direct sunlight, can warp the plastic and compromise the fit. Always clean your trays with cool or lukewarm water and store them in their protective case when not in use to preserve their shape and effectiveness.
Ready To Take The Next Step Towards A Straight Smile?
At Positive Image Dental, Drs. Campbell, Allington, Loescher, and Faraz are here to answer any questions you have about Invisalign or any other dental service. If you are ready to explore how Invisalign clear aligners can transform your smile in Devonshire, Bermuda, contact us today at (441) 292-2312 or visit www.positiveimagedental.com. Let us help you take the first step toward a more confident you.
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The Positive Image Dental team comprises three doctors:
Ian Campbell, DMD graduated
from Saltus Grammar School, Mount Allison University, and McGill University Dental School. He has
over 40 years of experience in dentistry and is reputed for providing high-quality dental care in
Bermuda. Dr. Campbell is passionate about lifelong learning and staying abreast of the latest trends
in dentistry.
Christopher Allington, DMD is
an alumnus of the University of Queens, McGill Dental School, and University of Connecticut. He has
been practicing in Bermuda for over 12 years and is a member, past president, and chair of the
Bermuda Dental Association and Bermuda Dental Board. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General
Dentistry and International Congress of Oral Implantology and is registered for fellowship in the
International Association of Orthodontics.
Dr. Lara Loescher BDS, MFDS
RCSEd is a graduate of Bermuda High School and University of Bristol, a member of the Royal
College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, and is completing a Masters in Aesthetic and Restorative
dentistry. She has been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry, including Invisalign, for over 13
years and is interested in diabetes management.
Dr. Faraz, BSc, BDS, MA, is
passionate about all aspects of high-quality dentistry, especially endodontics and cosmetic
dentistry. His enthusiasm for cutting-edge technologies and techniques keeps him grounded in
minimally invasive dentistry.
Dr. Faraz earned his doctorate in dentistry from King’s College London in 2011 after earning a bachelor’s degree in Human Sciences. He worked in Oxfordshire for ten years before moving to London to work full-time at his family practice. Dr. Faraz routinely pursues additional training to improve his skill in rebuilding exceptionally natural-looking teeth.
He gains tremendous satisfaction from supporting anxious patients in overcoming their dental phobias via his passion and patience, restoring confidence in their oral health. Dr. Faraz looks forward to serving you with all your needs while ensuring your trust is always in safe hands.