Invisalign
Straighter teeth. Clear aligners. No one needs to know.
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that straightens teeth using a series of custom-made, removable trays. Each set of aligners moves teeth progressively toward their planned final position over a course of treatment that typically spans 6 to 24 months, depending on complexity.
Here at Pitt Street Dental Centre in Sydney CBD, we are an Invisalign Diamond Provider with Invisalign Australia, reflecting the volume and consistency of cases we manage. Dr Michael Cai and our team have extensive experience treating a wide range of alignment concerns, from minor crowding and spacing to more complex bite corrections.
A complimentary initial Invisalign consultation is available to assess your suitability.
For the Adults Who Put This Off Until Now
You have been thinking about straightening your teeth for a while. Maybe since your teens, when braces were offered but the timing was not right. Maybe more recently, as a photo reminded you of the one thing you would change about your smile if you could.
The idea of metal brackets and wires at this stage of your life does not appeal. You want something discreet. Something that fits into your routine without announcing itself in every meeting, every dinner, every video call.
That is exactly what Invisalign was designed for. Here at Pitt Street Dental Centre, we have been providing Invisalign treatment for years, earning Diamond Provider status seven times running. We know which cases respond well to aligners, which ones need a different approach, and how to get the best possible result in the shortest reasonable timeframe.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable plastic aligners to move your teeth gradually into a straighter position. Each set of aligners is worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next set in the series. Each new tray applies gentle, calibrated pressure to shift specific teeth according to the treatment plan.
The aligners are made from SmartTrack material, a flexible, medical-grade thermoplastic designed specifically for Invisalign. They are virtually invisible when worn, which is one of the primary reasons patients choose them over traditional metal braces.
You wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing your teeth. The removability is a significant advantage: you can maintain your normal oral hygiene routine, eat whatever you like, and remove them briefly for important events.
We plan your entire treatment digitally using the Invisalign ClinCheck system before you start. This software shows you a 3D simulation of how your teeth will move at each stage, so you can see the projected end result before your first aligner is even manufactured.
As an Invisalign Diamond Provider for seven consecutive years, we have the case volume and clinical experience to handle straightforward cosmetic alignment through to more complex orthodontic corrections.
How Do I Know If Invisalign Is Right for Me?
Invisalign may be the right solution if any of these sound familiar:
“My teeth are crowded and overlapping but I do not want visible braces”
“I have gaps between my teeth that I would like to close”
“My bite feels off, my teeth do not meet properly when I close my jaw”
“I had braces as a teenager but my teeth have shifted back over the years”
“I am considering veneers but my dentist suggested aligning my teeth first for a better result”
“I want straighter teeth but I need a treatment that does not interfere with my professional appearance”
Invisalign is effective for a wide range of alignment and bite issues, though it is not suitable for every case. Severe skeletal discrepancies or certain complex bite corrections may require traditional orthodontics or a combined approach. We will assess your situation honestly during your consultation and recommend the best path forward.
What Does the Invisalign Process Look Like at Pitt Street Dental Centre?
01
Complimentary Consultation (30 to 45 minutes)
We offer a no-cost initial Invisalign consultation. Your dentist will examine your teeth, discuss your goals, and assess whether Invisalign is suitable for your case. If it is, we take digital scans using our iTero scanner, a quick, comfortable process with no messy impressions.
02
Digital Treatment Plan (ClinCheck)
Using the digital scans, we create a 3D simulation of your treatment from start to finish. You see exactly how your teeth will move at each stage and what the final result will look like. We review this plan together, make any adjustments, and once you approve it, your custom aligners are manufactured.
03
Aligner Fitting
When your aligners arrive, we fit the first set and ensure they are comfortable. If attachments (small tooth-coloured bumps that help the aligners grip) are needed, we bond them at this appointment. You receive your first few sets of aligners to take home, along with clear instructions on wear time and care.
04
Progress Check-Ins (every 6 to 8 weeks)
You switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks at home. Every six to eight weeks, you come in for a brief appointment so we can check your progress, provide your next sets of aligners, and make any adjustments to the plan.
05
Completion and Retention
Once your teeth are in their final position, we fit a retainer to keep them there. Retainers are essential. Without them, teeth can shift back over time. We offer both removable retainers and bonded (fixed) retainers depending on your preference.
Invisalign vs Traditional Braces vs Lingual Braces: Comparing Your Options
Invisalign ✓
Traditional Metal Braces
Lingual Braces (behind teeth)
Visibility
VisibilityVirtually invisible
VisibilityVisible metal brackets and wires
VisibilityHidden behind teeth
Removable
RemovableYes (for eating, brushing)
RemovableNo
RemovableNo
Treatment time
Treatment time6 to 18 months (typical)
Treatment time12 to 24 months
Treatment time12 to 24 months
Comfort
ComfortSmooth plastic, no wires
ComfortBrackets can irritate cheeks and lips
ComfortCan irritate the tongue
Eating restrictions
Eating restrictionsNone (aligners removed for eating)
Eating restrictionsYes (hard, sticky foods to avoid)
Eating restrictionsYes
Oral hygiene
Oral hygieneNormal brushing and flossing
Oral hygieneMore difficult around brackets
Oral hygieneMore difficult
Best for
Best forMild to moderate alignment, adults wanting discretion
Best forComplex cases, severe bite correction
Best forPatients wanting fixed, hidden treatment
We will recommend the best option for your specific alignment needs during your consultation.
Are There Any Risks with Invisalign? What Should I Expect?
Invisalign is a non-surgical, non-invasive orthodontic treatment. The risks are minimal, but we want you to be fully informed.
Things to be aware of:
- Mild discomfort or pressure for the first one to two days of each new aligner set as teeth begin to move
- Slight lisping when you first start wearing aligners, which typically resolves within a few days
- Aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day for the treatment to work as planned. Inconsistent wear extends treatment time and can compromise results
- Attachments (small tooth-coloured bumps) may be visible on some teeth during treatment
- Some patients need interproximal reduction (IPR), where a tiny amount of enamel is removed between teeth to create space for movement
- Teeth can relapse (shift back) if retainers are not worn as directed after treatment
What to expect day to day:
- Remove aligners to eat and drink anything other than water
- Brush your teeth before putting aligners back in
- Clean your aligners daily with a soft brush and cold water
- Carry your aligner case with you to avoid losing them
- No recovery time required: treatment fits around your normal life
Transparent pricing, no surprises
We publish our Invisalign pricing on our full price list. Download it to review your options before your free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How much does Invisalign cost in Sydney CBD?
The cost depends on the complexity and duration of your treatment. Simple cases involving minor alignment take fewer aligners and cost less than complex cases requiring significant tooth movement. We publish our full pricing on the downloadable price list. After your complimentary consultation, you will receive a personalised written quote. Payment plans are available.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Most cases take 6 to 18 months, though some minor alignments can be completed in as little as 3 to 4 months. The digital ClinCheck plan shows you the projected timeline before you start, so you will know the expected duration from the outset.
Can I eat normally with Invisalign?
Yes. Unlike braces, there are no food restrictions with Invisalign. You remove the aligners to eat and drink, so you can enjoy whatever you like. Just brush your teeth before putting them back in.
Will people notice I am wearing Invisalign?
In most cases, no. The aligners are made from clear, thin plastic and fit closely over your teeth. Most patients tell us that colleagues, friends, and even partners do not notice them.
Is Invisalign suitable for adults?
Absolutely. The majority of our Invisalign patients are adults. Many are professionals who want straighter teeth without the appearance of traditional braces. There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment as long as your teeth and gums are healthy.
What happens after treatment?
Retention is essential. We fit a retainer, either removable or bonded, to keep your teeth in their new position. Without a retainer, teeth can gradually shift back over time.
Payment Plans
Why Choose Pitt Street Dental Centre for Invisalign in Sydney?
Diamond Provider for seven consecutive years
Invisalign Diamond Provider status is earned through case volume and outcomes. Holding it for seven consecutive years reflects the depth of our experience and the consistency of our results. We know which cases respond well to aligners and how to manage them efficiently.
Complimentary initial consultation
We offer a no-cost Invisalign consultation so you can explore your options without commitment. You will leave knowing whether Invisalign is right for you, what the timeline looks like, and what it will cost.
Digital treatment preview before you start
The ClinCheck 3D simulation shows you exactly how your teeth will move and what the end result will look like. No guessing, no uncertainty. You approve the plan before your first aligner is made.
Convenient Sydney CBD location
We are a short walk from Martin Place, Wynyard, and Town Hall stations. Appointments are quick, typically 15 to 20 minutes for check-ins, so you can fit them into a lunch break or before work without disruption.
Part of a bigger plan if you want it
Many of our patients combine Invisalign with cosmetic treatments like veneers or whitening. Dr Cai can coordinate your orthodontic and cosmetic goals into one sequenced plan, so your alignment work sets the perfect foundation for the cosmetic finish.
INSIGHTS & INSPIRATION
Author Attribution:
Medically reviewed by Dr Michael Cai, BDSc (Hons) WA MRACDS (GDP) – July 2026
Medical Disclaimer:
The information on this page is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice. Treatment outcomes vary between individuals. All surgical procedures carry risks. Please consult Dr Michael Cai or one of our qualified dentists at Pitt Street Dental Centre for personalised advice about your dental health.
