Be clear
on the facts.
Thinking about teeth straightening?
Know the facts.
Know what to ask.
Know what you are getting.
Know the facts
Know the facts.
Why an in-person examination before you commence any treatment is recommended.
Find an Invisalign provider
near you
Understand your procedure, before you move ahead.
When it comes to teeth straightening, only 1 in 2 New Zealanders are choosing to go with their dental expert^.
A range of devices can be used to straighten teeth, some may be more suitable for you than others. It’s worth investing in a in-person examination with a registered specialist orthodontist or dentist before commencing any treatment who will be able to give you the pros and cons of each treatment method.
^Research conducted in 2020 by KANTAR with funding from Invisalign New Zealand
A physical examination should be conducted to minimise the risk of any underlying dental issues.
Consumers may unknowlingly be skipping over steps which may lead to complications down the track.
Pre-treatment diagnostics performed by registered specialist orthodontists and dentists are in place to protect you from the potential risks that can arise from teeth straightening.
Check the registration and experience of your provider.
Teeth straightening is a medical procedure and requires expert knowledge, training and experience.
If you want to check that your specialist orthodontist or dentist is registered to practice in New Zealand, the register of qualified doctors can be freely searched on the Medical Council of New Zealand website: www.mcnz.org.nz.
Knowwhat to ask
Know what to ask.
What are the ‘must-ask’ questions to ensure you are aware of potential risks, and you are clear on how your care will be managed throughout your treatment.
Ask what procedure is being recommended and why?
Whilst the promise of some teeth straightening procedures may seem appealing, it’s important than you are clear on your procedure and what outcomes you can expect from treatment. It’s also important to be clear on your treatment plan – and who you should contact if you are experiencing excessive pain or discomfort or your aligner doesn’t seem to fit properly.
What are the risks I need to be aware of?
Risks that can arise from teeth straightening include tooth loosening or loss, and/or damage to your bite. Always ask your registered specialist orthodontist or dentist about the risks, and how they will manage risks should they arise. If you feel you’re discouraged to ask trust your instincts and be cautious about proceeding.
Who will manage my care and progress throughout treatment?
When you are being treated by a specialist orthodontist or dentist they will provide you with written instructions and advice on your treatment plan – what follow-up will be provided as well as your plan for ongoing supervision to check progress.
They will also advise you on what to do if you experience unexpected effects as a result of treatment.
knowwhat you are getting
step 1
Know what you are getting.
What product you are being recommended, why, and if it has had any product recalls or alerts issued.
Products used to straighten teeth are often described using generic terms. But they’re not all the same.
Around half of New Zealanders undergoing teeth straightening could not name the brand of aligner they were using^.
^Research conducted in 2020 by KANTAR with funding from Invisalign New Zealand.
Know that not all clear aligner technologies are the same.
Always ask about the brand you will receive as part of your treatment.
If a specialist orthodontist or dentist is advertising themselves as an Invisalign Provider, confirm they are actually using Invisalign brand clear aligners. If Invisalign treatment is being recommended for you, ensure you are receiving the Invisalign brand. You can check this by looking for the Invisalign flower logo which should be printed on your aligners.
Check the product you are receiving.
Ask the following questions: what is the brand name of the product I am receiving? What is the name of the company that makes the product and where is it manufactured? Has the product had any recalls or alerts issued by the New Zealand Medicines and Medical Authority Devices Safety Authority?
Understand the potential risks when it comes to teeth straightening.
If it doesn’t say it's Invisalign, it’s not.
Don’t be afraid to ask what product you are being recommended and why, and where you can access further information.
