By A few months ago I went over for a dental scan appointment with WonderSmile. I’ve always had at the back of my mind the desire to straighten my teeth as it’s one of my top insecurities. Working with WonderSmile to align my teeth has been a dream come true. Before I started this journey, I had no clue what to expect. But I’m on Week 3 and there’s a lot I’ve learned so far. This post will be in a kind of Frequently Asked Questions format so it’s a lot easier to break down everything about my teeth straightening journey with WonderSmile clear aligners.
Do I need to see a dentist first?
No, you do not. All you need to do is take the assessment questionnaire on the WonderSmile site to find out if you are a candidate. It only takes 3 minutes and is completely free! This will assess your dental concerns and you will then be informed about whether the treatment plan is suitable for you or not.
I don’t want to wear them all day. What are my options?
There are 2 different options, WonderSmile All-Day aligners, and WonderSmile NightClear aligners. The All-Day aligners mean you have to them throughout the day for at least 22 hours. The advantage is because you wear them for longer, the treatment plan is shorter. Usually for about 6 months. The NightClear aligners need to be worn for 10 hours every night and the average treatment time is 9 months. I’m on the All-Day treatment plan.
I passed the assessment, now what?
You’re ready for your 3D scan! You can book a 3D scan appointment at any WonderSmile clinic of your preference. They have several locations around the UK. I had my appointment at the WonderSmile Clinic Store in Birmingham. The scan only lasted bout 30 minutes and it was completely pain-free. Everyone was very nice and friendly. Your teeth are scanned so that the orthodontists can create your treatment plan using the 3D scan. The orthodontic team will review your 3D scan to determine if you are eligible for WonderSmile clear aligners. You usually hear back in 8-10 business days. If eligible, you will receive your treatment plan information and a 3D video to display how your teeth will straighten step by step throughout your treatment. It costs £40 to create your 3D scan at your clinic appointment. Deducted from the total cost when you pay for your treatment and is 100% refundable if you don’t qualify.
Do I get to see my Before & After makeover before I start treatment?
Yes! You will receive a cool 3D simulation video alongside your treatment that shows how the aligners will work to straighten your teeth through the course of the treatment. You can then accept the treatment if you’re happy with the makeover. Here’s mine 🙂
How much does it cost?
The All-Dy treatment costs £1,339 (or £105 per month) and the NightClear plan costs £1,449 (or £120 per month) which is way more affordable than braces and other invisible aligners out there. WonderSmile also offers an amazing 12 month, interest-free payment plan to help spread the cost and make it a lot cheaper. See the full pricing breakdown.
Is there a discount I can use?
Yes! You can save £80 by using my code: ‘LEE80‘. You’re welcome 🙂
How do the aligners work?
WonderSmile clear aligners are prescribed by an orthodontics team and arrive as a complete set to your doorstep. Each set contains a series of individual aligners, designed to make minor adjustments over time. Each customer case is completely personalised and the average treatment plan is between 6 to 9 months.
But, I only need my upper/lower arch done.
The orthodontist will assess your case and determine the best solution for you. If it turns out that you only need one arch, the price is reduced by £250.
Does it hurt?
Yes, but only for the first few days. The first time I popped my invisible aligners in, I was in so much discomfort. The good news is, it doesn’t last. After the first 3-4 days, your teeth start adjusting to the aligners and you are comfortable with them. Towards the end of each set, the aligners will feel looser and you’ll be able to tell it’s time to move to the next set.
Will I speak funny?
Yes, but only for the first few days. I had a lisp and it was throwing massively especially the first time I spoke, but now you can’t even tell I have them on. You do adapt pretty quickly and your speech returns to normal. Don’t panic 🙂
Are they visible?
No, they are invisible. People will not be able to tell you’re wearing them until you point it out and get them to look really closely. It’s amazing how clear they are! just make sure there’s no food stuck in your teeth before you pop them on!
Will I see results immediately?
Yes. I noticed a change in my dentition from week 2. How amazing is that?!
How long do I have to wear them for?
Every case is different but treatments normally last from 6-9 months depending on the severity. I am required to wear my invisible aligners for 20 hours every day. So that gives me 4 hours every day to eat, drink and snack. I spread my 4 hours throughout the day between breakfast, lunch, and dinner so I have them off at least for 1 hour 15 minutes each time. With my plan, the upper arch has 16 different sets and my lower arch has 9 sets. You should move on to the next set of aligners every 2 weeks which means I will wear the upper arch set for 32 weeks and the lower one for 18 weeks.
Can I eat with my aligners on?
No. You have to take them out every time you eat, have a snack or drink anything apart from water. It will take some getting used to but trust me, by week 2 you’ll be a pro. Wash your aligners every time you take them out and make your teeth are clean and there’s no food stuck between your teeth before you pop them back in. The routine can be a little overwhelming the first few days but you get into pretty quickly. Plus, it has helped immensely to stop me from snacking throughout the day. When you have to remove and wash your aligners every time you eat something, it’ll make you think twice about that bar of chocolate or fizzy drink you are craving or the usual office treats that people pass round. I have started skipping a lot of snacks and just taking them out for my actual breakfast or dinner. Keep your little aligner case on you at all times as they are very handy.
Can I also get my teeth whitened?
Yes! Your teeth will get whitened at the last stage of your treatment. I am looking forward to getting to that final step in the makeover.
Am I too old to get them done?
No, absolutely not. There is no age limit. However, the minimum age is 12 and anyone under 18 will require parental consent.
How many times do I have to go for check-ups?
The only appointment you’ll ever need to go for is your 3D scan appointment. After that, your treatment gets sent out to you and you can start your journey to a new WonderSmile. No further appointments needed! If at all you have any issues or lose your aligners you can contact the lovely WonderSmile customer service who will advise what to do next. But you will not need to regularly check-in at the clinic.
I honestly hope I have answered all of your questions about aligners. I will keep updating this post as my journey progresses. I have no regrets about doing this, it’s the best thing I have done fo myself. I wish I had done this sooner. I can’t wait to see my new WonderSmile. You can refer to the WonderSmile FAQ page if you have further questions. Remember you can use code: LEE80 to get £80 off your treatment if you decide to go for it. You will not be disappointed!
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