Choosing an Invisalign provider: eight questions to ask

1. Who plans my treatment, and who will I see?

Invisalign plans are drafted by Align's technicians, then approved by a clinician. Ask whether that clinician reviews the plan tooth by tooth or signs it off as it arrives, and whether the person you see at each visit is the same one who planned it. Our answer: Louise plans every case herself, refines the plan before approving it, and sees you at every appointment.

2. How much experience do they have with Invisalign?

Experience shows in the details: attachments, staging, refinements and finishing. Ask how many cases the clinician has treated and how long they have used Invisalign. Our answer: Louise has provided Invisalign since 2007 and has planned more than 4,250 orthodontic cases. Align Technology recognises her as a Platinum Elite provider, which reflects that volume.

3. Will I be examined, and X-rayed, before a plan is made?

Teeth move through bone. Gum disease, thin bone, an old root filling or a hidden problem can all change what is safe. Ask whether treatment starts with an examination and an X-ray, or with a scan and a sales conversation. Our answer: every consultation includes an examination of teeth, gums and bite, and every package includes an orthodontic X-ray before anything is made.

4. What exactly is included in the price?

This is where quotes differ most. Ask specifically about the scan, the X-ray, refinement aligners, attachments, retainers and how many sets, whitening, and reviews after treatment. A low headline price with retainers and refinements added later can end up costing more. Our answer: one written price per package covering the consultation, iTero scan, X-ray, all aligners in the package (refinements included except in Express), Dental Monitoring, Vivera retainers, professional whitening and twelve months of aftercare.

5. What happens if my teeth do not move as planned?

Some teeth lag behind the computer's prediction. Ask whether refinement aligners are included, and what happens if the case turns out to need more than the package allows. Our answer: refinements are included in Lite, Moderate and Comprehensive. If a plan changes materially, we tell you before anything is made, never afterwards.

6. How will my progress be checked?

Ask how often you will be seen and whether anyone checks progress between visits. Our answer: in-person reviews roughly every six to eight weeks, plus quick phone scans at home through Dental Monitoring so Louise can spot a problem early and you travel in less often.

7. What will I wear afterwards, and for how long?

Any honest provider will tell you retainers are for life. Ask what type, whether they are included, and what replacements cost. Our answer: two sets of Vivera retainers are included and fitted on the day treatment ends. Replacements after the first year are chargeable; if you need one, we give you the price before it is ordered.

8. Can I see the plan before I commit?

You should be able to see a simulation of your own teeth before paying for anything. Our answer: you see your 3D simulation at your consultation and the final ClinCheck plan before any aligner is manufactured.

Two more worth asking anywhere

Is the clinician registered with the General Dental Council, and can you check the number? Louise's is on every page of this site. And is the practice regulated by the Care Quality Commission? Omnia Dental Spa is. Neither guarantees a good result, but a provider that cannot answer either should be avoided.

Questions people ask

Is a cheaper Invisalign quote a worse one?

Not necessarily, but ask what it includes. Retainers, refinements, scans and reviews are often extras, and a complete quote can look dearer while costing less overall.

Does Platinum Elite mean the best provider?

No. It is Align Technology's recognition of case volume, not a quality ranking. It does mean considerable experience.

Should I see a specialist orthodontist instead?

For most Invisalign cases an experienced dentist is well placed to treat you. For complex jaw problems a specialist is the right route, and Louise will refer you if that is the honest advice.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes. If you have been quoted elsewhere, bring the plan and Louise will give you an independent view at a consultation.