Dental Aligners: All your questions answered
We all want the perfect smile; however, most of us are not blessed with perfectly aligned teeth. Needless to say, we could use the extra help.
Braces are the conventional treatment modality used to align teeth. Braces, however, are not the most aesthetically pleasing option out there.
Clear orthodontic devices, or dental aligners, are a series of clear, tight-fitting custom-made mouthpieces becoming increasingly popular nowadays. They slip up on the teeth and work to align teeth the same way braces do without the aesthetic concerns.
Who can get invisible aligners?
Invisible aligners are custom-built in accordance with the patients’ teeth. They are best suited for adults and teens. They are not recommended for children as their mouths grow and develop with age and hence are prone to change.
Aligners are an excellent option for people with mild to moderately crowded teeth or have minor spacing issues. Patients with severe crowding, spacing, or occlusion problems (underbites, overbites, crossbites) require a more complex treatment plan involving traditional braces.
How do aligners work?
A series of trays are designed according to your teeth’s position. You will be provided with a new aligner tray after every few weeks to facilitate movement into the desired final position.
The aligner trays are made with clear plastic or acrylic material. Unlike traditional braces, aligners can be removed during eating, flossing, and brushing.
How long do aligners take to straighten teeth?
The treatment time for aligners depends on the severity of the case i.e., how much adjustment they require. The average treatment time, however, lasts between 10 and 24 months. If your teeth are more crooked or your bite is not occluding properly, it may take longer.
In some cases, adults who had braces as a child report with slight tooth shifting. In such cases, aligners may be employed for as little as ten weeks.
Why use aligners instead of braces?
Aesthetics are the primary reason why people opt for aligners. Additionally, it is much easier to brush and floss with aligners as well, thereby maintaining better oral health.
Are aligners expensive?
Aligners are comparatively a little more expensive than regular braces; however, the price difference is not as stark, so you do not have to worry about breaking your bank.
Correcting misaligned or crooked teeth not only provides cosmetic benefits, but they also help improve function and protect the long-term health of your teeth.
At the Dental Clinic, we provide our patients with the best possible care because patient satisfaction is our utmost priority. Our comprehensive packages are designed to cater to you in the best way possible.
Book your appointment with our experts today to get the best possible treatment solution tailored to meet your particular needs.