Your smile is apparently the first thing that people usually notice when they see you. Having a straighter smile can help improve your self-esteem and exert a positive impact on your social conduct. If you have misaligned teeth and are on a quest to get the best treatment for them, then there’s no need to worry, as there are multiple options that you can choose from.
Over the past few years, the field of orthodontics has progressed dramatically. It has undergone an evolution from traditional braces with their potential inconveniences to more comfortable options for a healthy and beautiful smile, like clear aligners.
In 2023, clear aligners for Invisalign can prove to be the best solution for your improperly positioned teeth. Invisible braces are transparent and removable plastic devices that fit over misaligned teeth and can be removed whenever you want. These days, these aligners are highly prevalent because of their convenience and less intrusive properties as compared to conventional braces.
They are widely available at dentist’s offices. In addition to being discreet, research demonstrates that these modern aligners may also work faster than conventional braces.
How Clear Aligners Work
Invisalign or clear aligners is an example of advanced orthodontics. They slip over the teeth and exert constant, gentle, and steady pressure. Clear aligners consist of a set of transparent thin plastic shells that shift teeth in small increments if worn regularly. Each set is customized and pre-programmed by the dentist, which can help you achieve specific tooth movements.
- Unlike braces that are fixed to your teeth, clear aligners are removable and can be swapped with the new set at intervals of 7 to 14 days. As you go through the series of invisible braces, they gradually realign and calibrate your teeth, creating an aesthetically pleasing smile.
- During your first dental visit, your orthodontist will thoroughly assess your mouth. At this time, he will evaluate the potential threats to your oral condition. If there are no serious risks, then he will continue to take bite impressions of your teeth. These impressions will then be sent to the laboratories for processing.
- When your sets of clear aligners are ready, you have to visit your dentist’s office again. He will place them on your teeth; they should be worn in a certain sequence. Each set of clear aligners should be used for at least two weeks.
- As your treatment progresses, each tray will work to bring your teeth into the desired positions. These invisible braces are removable, and you can take them off for different purposes. However, you should make sure to wear them consistently during the whole treatment process in order to get quicker results.
What are the Different Types of Clear Aligners?
Orthodontists use different types of clear aligners depending on the oral condition and preferences of patients.
Invisalign Comprehensive, also known as Invisalign Full, is a treatment option specifically customized to address more complex oral issues. Another option is Invisalign Express, which comes with seven aligners and Invisalign Lite, which consists of 14 aligners. However, there’s no limit to the aligners that you can receive when you sign up for Invisalign treatment.
Depending on the severity of your case and requirements, Invisalign Comprehensive can be used to correct a wide range of dental problems. They range from conditions like overbite and under bite to overcrowding, cross bite and protruding teeth.
Why Are Clear Aligners Better Than Traditional Braces?
Having fewer parts also means fewer intricacies. Conventional braces can easily break, and their wires can poke and irritate lips, tongue and cheek. It can ultimately lead to cuts and ulcers. On the other hand, having a mouth free of brackets and wires minimizes all these problems and also makes oral care easier.
This makes the modern clear aligners a way better option than traditional braces. In addition to that. Clear aligners also offer various other advantages:
- Comprehensive Treatment Plan
Clear aligners have no metal wires to scrape or cut inside your mouth and don’t lead to discomfort or pain. Patients are advised to wear each set of clear aligners for about a week or two. These sets gradually exert a significant amount of pressure for predetermined movements. Each set of clear aligners is specifically designed for efficient treatment by the certified orthodontist.
This biomechanical advancement is not available in the case of traditional braces. Sometimes, metal braces exert excessive force causing discomfort or undesired side effects, especially during the first week of placement.
On the other hand, with aligners, people will be more comfortable. It can exert a little pressure since your teeth are moving gradually in the bone. However, it will not be as unpleasant as metal braces.
- Maintaining Proper Dental Hygiene Is Easier
Unlike conventional metal braces that are fixed to your teeth and can’t be taken off, clear aligners are removable. You can take them off whenever you require. In addition to that, there is another benefit associated with removable clear aligners.
It can help you maintain better oral hygiene as it lets you clean your teeth and other oral structures thoroughly. Moreover, these clear aligners can be washed separately. Aligners are easier to clean, and people don’t need to maneuver their toothbrushes around thin brackets and wires as in the case of metal braces.
- Help You Feel Confident
Aligners are a great option if you feel self-conscious due to the appearance of conventional metal braces. Clear aligners are fabricated with clear plastic and fit comfortably on your teeth. In fact, no one even realizes that you’re wearing your aligners unless you tell them.
Clear aligners are also perfect if someone has a public-facing job or wants to create a good impression.
- Can Reduce Treatment Time
When it comes to the length of duration, Invisalign may require half time as compared to metal braces. On average, they require approximately 10 to 12 months to correct the misalignment issues problem. On the other hand, it may take more than two years to get your teeth straightened with traditional metal braces.
Hence these modern clear aligners prove to be the most suitable option for you to get your teeth straightened. However, you shouldn’t opt for any treatment option on your own and ensure to consult your orthodontist before making any decision.