As a teeth straightening method, clear aligners are growing in popularity among teens and adults looking to improve their smiles. This method uses a series of custom-fit clear trays to move teeth into improved alignment. Clear aligners offer an attractive alternative to braces for those looking for a more flexible and discreet way to a straighter smile.
Clear aligners contain transparent, medical-grade plastic that fits firmly over teeth. Treatment involves a series of custom-made and removable trays that slowly straighten teeth over time. Every few weeks, the patient switches to a new set of aligners, and each makes incremental adjustments until the teeth are in their desired position. The active part of treatment is followed by a period during which the patient wears a retainer to help the teeth adjust to their new position.
Clear aligners can improve the smile without many of the drawbacks of traditional braces. The following key benefits are responsible for their growing popularity.
Many might say this tops the list of benefits of clear aligners. Even when worn, these clear trays are hardly noticeable. Many adults who forgo orthodontics due to not wanting to wear metal braces reconsider treatment when they realize clear aligners are an option.
Braces can involve metal parts that stick out and irritate the inner cheeks. However, clear aligners are custom-fit and made of smooth plastic, limiting this discomfort.
Many patients who choose treatment with clear aligners enjoy faster treatment times. Treatment with clear aligners can take between 6-18 months, while braces may take up to three years.
Braces can involve frequent appointments for adjusting and tightening. However, patients who choose clear aligners will not need to attend as many appointments. The entire series of aligners is created at the start of treatment, so patients simply change to the next set of aligners every few weeks.
Being able to remove clear aligners comes with two key benefits. First, the patient can remove them for short periods, such as when eating or taking pictures. Second, oral hygiene can be more manageable because the patient can remove the aligners for brushing and flossing.
Clear aligners are ideal for teens and adults who want straighter teeth and are unwilling to wear braces. The following are some key orthodontic problems that clear aligners can correct:
Clear aligners can also address mild to moderate bite issues such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. The can even help widen narrow denal arches to provide enough space for teeth to align correctly.
Though clear aligners are versatile, discreet, and effective, they will not work for everyone. Children are generally not good candidates for clear aligners because they may have trouble keeping track of the aligners or remembering to wear them. If aligners are not worn for at least 20-22 hours per day, they can be less effective.
Clear aligners cannot treat all orthodontic issues. Extreme bite issues, especially an extreme overbite, may require braces and surgery to correct. If the gaps between teeth are too large or teeth are too rotated, clear aligners will not be effective. In addition, individuals with dental work such as bridges or crowns may not be candidates for clear aligners. Also, clear aligners cannot fix cases involving intruded or extruded teeth.
Like all orthodontic treatment, clear aligner therapy begins with a consultation with an orthodontist. During this appointment, the provider will evaluate the patient's teeth and ensure the patient is a good candidate for clear aligners. The orthodontist will take a digital or physical impression of the mouth and discuss the patient's goals for treatment. The orthodontist will use this information to craft a treatment plan. Those plans will be sent along with the impression to the lab, where the series of aligners will be created. The patient will have periodic visits with the orthodontist throughout treatment to ensure everything is going as planned and make any necessary adjustments.
Fullerton Orthodontics & Children's Dentistry provides effective teeth straightening solutions that fit your lifestyle. If you have always wanted straighter teeth but do not like the idea of wearing braces, clear aligners may be for you. Call today to schedule a consultation and determine if you are a candidate.
Request an appointment here: https://www.fullertonfamilyorthodontics.com or call Fullerton Orthodontics & Children's Dentistry at (714) 459-8060 for an appointment in our Fullerton office.
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