Clear Aligners

Clear Aligners

There are many teeth-straightening options available today. Previously, if you wanted to straighten your teeth, braces were the only option available. However, today there are so many options, including clear aligners. Over the years, clear aligners have risen in popularity because they are simple and non-disruptive to many adults and teens’ daily lives.

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners were created to be an alternative to metal braces. The aligners are made of strong plastic, and they are used to move and straighten teeth gradually. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners are removable and clear, so they aren’t noticeable or disturbing to your life. Some of the benefits of clear aligners are:

  • They are discreet.
  • They are easier to keep clean.
  • They are more comfortable than traditional braces.
  • They are removable.

Because of the freedom they allow, many people choose clear aligners over braces when given the option.

How Do Clear Aligners Work?

Clear attachments are bonded to the teeth, and the aligners are placed on top. The attachments provide a stronger grip on the aligners, so there isn’t any worry of them falling off or getting loose. Once the aligners are attached, they use pressure to move the teeth and jaw. This treatment is done gently and can treat dental concerns such as:

  • Overbites
  • Underbites
  • Open bites
  • Crowded teeth
  • Diastema

The clear aligners should be removed when consuming anything other than water. After eating or drinking, orthodontists recommend brushing your teeth and then reapplying your aligners.

When Can I Remove The Clear Aligners?

You can remove the aligners whenever you are eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with the aliens can damage them. Similarly, drinking coffee, tea, or any other drink other than water can stain the outside of the aligners.

While you can remove the aligners when eating, there are a few foods that orthodontists want you to stay away from to not disrupt the results of the treatment. Some of these foods include:

  • Hard candy and food- This can bend your teeth and affect your treatment.
  • Sticky foods- One of the more popular sticky foods is gum. It is important to avoid gum as it can get tangled or stuck on your attachments and cause problems.
  • Overly spicy foods- Spicy foods contain acids that may damage the teeth and aligners.

Are Clear Aligners Effective?

Yes! Invisalign reported that over 85% of their clients had success with their treatment. Of course, because the aligners are removable, the effectiveness of the treatment depends on how seriously the patient takes it. In order for treatment to be successful, many orthodontists recommend that patients wear the clear aligners for a minimum of 20 hours per day.

How Long Does Treatment Last?

The length of treatment depends on the severity of the orthodontic issue. Although, many orthodontists have reported quicker treatments with clear aligners compared to braces. Clear aligners like Invisalign typically last for six months but can extend further if needed.

Do I Need To Do Anything After Treatment?

After the treatment, your teeth will want to shift back to their pre-treatment positions. This is why a retainer is given to clear aligner patients. The retainer is to be worn at night when you are asleep in order to preserve the results.

It is essential for patients to continue to brush and floss their teeth every day. Before the retainer goes in at night, flossing between the teeth can prevent food from causing cavities and other related problems.

Who Is A Candidate For Clear Aligners?

Anyone with concerns about the placement of their teeth may be a candidate for clear aligner treatment. Clear aligner treatment can accommodate a variety of alignment concerns, however, it is important that you speak to your dentist or orthodontist if you are considering treatment.

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