After qualifying in Portugal in 2010, I came to the UK to broaden my dental experience. I then developed an interest in clear aligner orthodontics and attended the Invisalign clear aligner certification course.
In 2016/17, I started offering clear aligners to patients, but often, during consultations, they would ask for Invisalign treatment by name. Therefore, I decided to integrate the Invisalign system into my practice.
I understood it to be a modern, effective and discreet solution, and I’d heard good feedback from my peers. I completed training in 2022, and I’ve seen a positive impact on my patients since. In my experience, the Invisalign system offers good quality, effective treatment – and most of the time, I need a few refinements. Compared with other systems I have used, Align’s ClinCheck treatment planning software is the best on the market.
I had continuous support during my initial training period. Since then, I've attended online webinars and used the ‘Aligner Dental Academy’ app, as well as posting in the ‘case cafés’ which forms part of the support package, where I can get advice.
Combined with the clinical education available, this is a particularly helpful support package for someone who might be embarking on their Invisalign treatment journey. A few orthodontic specialist colleagues have been able to assist if I have needed to talk though a particular case.
When you speak with someone who has a lot of experience, you can learn from them, which will make it easier for you the next time you encounter a similar case. I highly recommend that you use all the support that is available to you.
Putting my work into practice
I learned the importance of scanning every patient with the iTero intraoral scanner before conducting a full assessment or discussing their treatment options with them. It’s less time-consuming for the practice and better for explaining treatment options to our patients.
Patients appreciate the use of the latest digital technology and are, in turn, more engaged in understanding their treatment plan. Our practice nurses carry out the scans, as it’s important for the whole DCP team to be trained to use the iTero scanner and understand all the ins and outs of Invisalign treatment. This helps to make the process smooth for patients from day one.
We’ve also used Invisalign Smile Architect software for a couple of cases as most patients want to further improve their smile after they’ve completed the initial Invisalign treatment. We frequently progress to treat with composite bonding, porcelain veneers or crown replacements.
I believe my success comes from a commitment to patient care, utilising all available support and not being afraid to ask for advice from more experienced colleagues. Most importantly, Invisalign treatment provides excellent results, because of the technology and innovation it incorporates.
It is a game changer.