Clear aligners are transparent trays that are used to gradually move a person's teeth towards better alignment. Clear aligners are a great option for straightening teeth and correcting other minor alignment issues. Clear aligners can be used to fix orthodontic uses like overbites, overjets, underbites, crossbites, and spaces between teeth. These devices are most effective on alignment problems caused by abnormal teeth positioning.
Treatment involves getting a series of aligners that work together to get the patient's teeth to the desired position. Each set of aligner trays is worn for about two weeks, which is about the time it takes for one set of aligners to get the patient's teeth to a position where the next set in the series can take over.
Metal braces have been used to straighten teeth for over a century, but these devices are becoming less popular as more discreet ways to straighten teeth are starting to emerge, such as clear aligners. Below are some of the reasons why a growing number of people prefer to have their teeth straightened with clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces.
Clear aligners are made from transparent plastics, so they are rarely noticed when worn. The aligners fit tightly on the patient's teeth and it allows them to display their smile as their teeth begin to move towards a better position.
The same cannot be said for metal braces, which are made up of metal wires and brackets. These components cover most of the patient's teeth and are quite noticeable.
Metal braces are permanently fixed in place and that can lead to a variety of issues. For example, people who opt for clear aligners can easily remove their aligners whenever they wish. It allows them to continue to enjoy all of their favorite foods and it does not hinder their ability to clean their teeth.
The metal brackets and wires that come with metal braces can easily scratch and puncture soft tissues in the mouth like the cheeks and gums. Clear braces are designed to be comfortable and smooth as they do not have sharp edges that can lead to cuts and irritation. Also, clear aligners do not lead to the demineralization of teeth like metal braces are prone to cause.
Clear braces deliver more precise force to the patient's teeth and that sometimes shortens the length of the patient's treatment. The average duration of treatment with clear aligners is about a year, while patients who get metal braces might have to use them for up to three years.
Thinking about straightening your teeth with clear aligners? Here are the answers to some of the questions you might have:
Clear aligners work similarly to how other teeth straightening appliances work. The appliance applies force on the patient’s teeth, which pushes them to a new position over time. Patients are given a complete series that includes several pairs of aligner trays at the start of the treatment. Each pair is worn or roughly worn for a couple of weeks before being swapped with another pair further down the series. When the patient gets through all the pairs, their teeth should be at the targeted alignment.
The main difference between traditional braces and clear aligners is that the latter is removable, which leads to a more comfortable experience for the patient. They do not have to worry about their teeth straightening appliance getting in the way of meals or oral hygiene.
Anyone disciplined enough to wear clear aligners, as instructed by a dentist, can be a good candidate. However, patients with severe teeth alignment issues might be advised to wear traditional braces. Clear aligners work best on teeth alignment issues caused by poor teeth positioning, while braces work on issues caused by poor teeth or jaw positioning.
The simplest way to keep clear aligners clean is by keeping the mouth clean. Patients should brush and floss before putting their aligners in so food does not build up inside the appliance. Patients should also remove their appliances during meals or when drinking anything besides water since that can lead to stains. Dentists also provide patients with cleaning solutions to keep their appliances clean.
Interested in learning more about clear aligners? Reach out to our dental office today to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://www.pacificviewsmilecenter.com or call Pacific View Smile Center at (310) 453-3747 for an appointment in our Santa Monica office.
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