Embarking on the quest for a straighter smile doesn’t always mean embracing traditional braces. In this guide, we delve into the effectiveness of clear aligners, the age suitability, the treatment process, and how to ensure success.
Wondering if it’s the right time for aligners? Generally, aligners work wonders for individuals with mild to moderately crooked teeth. Age is less of a concern than the extent of misalignment. If you have orthodontic issues and are committed to wearing aligners as directed, you might just be the perfect candidate.
How Do Aligners Work?
Clear aligners are no magic; they’re a scientifically directed process. Dental examination, treatment planning, tray creation, and treatment stages are the key players. Aligners wrap around your teeth, applying gentle pressure to shift them gradually. Treatment duration can vary, ranging from a swift four months to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case.
Here’s a Guide to the Clear Aligner Process:
- Orthodontic Examination: Begin with an examination by your orthodontist to determine your candidacy for clear aligner treatment, considering individual needs. The provider’s skill and expertise play a pivotal role in the success of the treatment, irrespective of the aligner brand.
- Records and Design: Upon suitability, records, including facial and dental photos, an X-ray, and a mouth scan, are taken. These records are sent to a clear aligner lab, such as Invisalign®, to create a 3D model of your teeth. Your orthodontist designs a personalised treatment plan and orders a series of trays.
- Wearing the Aligners: Wear each tray for a week or two, with each tray incrementally straightening your teeth. The gentle pressure exerted by the aligners is the mechanism by which clear aligners gradually correct tooth alignment.
- Attachments and Rubber Bands: Some cases may require attachments on teeth, serving as gripping points for aligners. Rubber bands might be needed for extra pressure or bite correction, similar to traditional braces.
How Long Is the Treatment for Aligners?
A notable advantage of clear aligner systems lies in their versatility. You can easily remove them for eating, drinking, and maintaining oral hygiene with your regular toothbrush. To maximise the effectiveness of the aligners, it’s recommended to wear them for approximately 22 hours daily, providing your teeth with ample time to progress toward their desired alignment.
The duration of adult treatment can vary, ranging from a few months to an average of around twelve months, contingent on the complexity of the case. Your dentist will collaborate closely with you to devise a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Crucial to the success of the treatment is the conscientious care of your trays and teeth. It’s imperative to refrain from consuming anything (except water) with the aligners in place, as doing so can trap sugars, fostering decay-causing bacteria. Removing the aligners while eating and drinking not only prevents sugar entrapment but also allows saliva to function as a natural tooth-cleaning system, promoting optimal oral health.
[H2] Are You a Good Candidate for Aligners?
Determining whether Invisalign is the right fit for your orthodontic needs involves considering a few key factors. Invisalign proves most effective for adults and teens with mild-to-moderate misalignment issues. Severe misalignment may steer you towards alternative treatment options.
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, excel in horizontally shifting teeth. If your dental correction involves vertical shifts or rotations, Invisalign may not be the optimal solution.
Invisalign has demonstrated success in addressing various mild-to-moderate orthodontic issues, including gaps, overcrowded teeth, open bites, and specific types of overbite, underbite, and crossbite concerns (excluding severe bite issues).
Before opting for Invisalign, collaboration between you and your dentist is crucial. Be prepared for a potential temporary lisp and initial discomfort as you adapt to the trays. Additionally, committing to post-meal flossing and brushing is essential.
If these considerations align with your commitment and lifestyle, Invisalign could be a suitable choice. However, if these aspects pose challenges, exploring alternative treatment options may be necessary for your orthodontic journey.
Aligners are a powerful and versatile option for achieving a straighter smile.
If you’re considering aligner therapy, consult with your dentist to determine if you’re an ideal candidate and to embark on a journey toward a confident, aligned smile. To book an appointment with our Friendly Dentist in Molonglo Valley, Canberra. Contact Molonglo Dental Surgery at 02 6287 1222.
