Introduction
Everyone dreams of having a great smile, but they get stuck on where to start. Many people are experiencing success using clear orthodontic devices called ‘Aligners.’ Orthodontic braces encourage teeth to move using brackets connected with wires. Aligners are a series of custom-made tight-fitted trays that slip over the teeth. This article explores more on invisible aligners for a perfect smile.
What Is an Invisible Aligner?
An invisible aligner is a removable, transparent orthodontic device that is mostly used to straighten teeth and correct bite problems. These invisible aligners are made of clear and smooth plastic material and are custom-made for different individuals. This orthodontic process involves a set of aligners that are used sequentially by slightly aligning the position of teeth until the desired and esthetic position is achieved. These invisible aligners are famous because they are aesthetically pleasing and an effective alternative to traditional orthodontic braces.
Who Are All Suitable to Get Invisible Teeth Aligners?
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Invisible aligners are suitable for persons with mild to moderate misalignment of teeth. They are best for adults or teens because of their custom-built tight-fitting nature. It can be used in severe cases, as they need traditional orthodontic braces for effective correction.
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Teenagers and adults with fully erupted permanent teeth are specifically good candidates for undergoing orthodontic treatment for aligning their teeth using invisible aligners.
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Straightening a child's teeth is more complicated. Young clients and their jawbones are still growing and developing, which makes it difficult for the dentist to prepare custom-made trays for the entire procedure.
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These aligners are typically used for patients with mild to moderately crowded teeth, or minor spacing issues. Patients with severe crowding or spacing problems may need more complicated orthodontic treatment.
How Do Invisible Teeth Aligners Work?
The dentist decides and makes a plan for correcting the patient's teeth, which includes duplicating the teeth with respective jaws. The clear aligners have several versions with slight adjustments, which help the teeth to move.
They are worn according to their types:
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Night Worn - It has to be worn only at night, but at least 10 hours a day.
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Normal Aligners - It is worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. This can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.
The patients get a new set of aligners every few weeks until the end of the treatment, to help the teeth move in the desired position.
How Long Does It Take for Invisible Aligners to Straighten Teeth?
Treatment time with clear aligners depends on how much movement or rotation the teeth need. The more the teeth have to be moved, the longer it takes to complete the treatment. This usually takes around 10 to 24 months. But if the patient has done an orthodontic treatment before and teeth shifted slightly, they may require around ten weeks with clear aligners.
What Are the Uses Of Invisible Aligners Over Braces?
Invisible aligners offer several benefits when compared with traditional orthodontic braces, which makes invisible aligners a popular choice for many. Some of the advantages include
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Aesthetic Appeal: The invisible appearance of the device is the primary advantage of invisible aligners over braces. These clear plastic aligners are less noticeable when compared to the appearance of metal braces, providing an aesthetically pleasing choice.
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Removability: Invisible aligners are easily removed making it easy for the patients to brush, or eat. This removable type helps patients maintain oral hygiene and reduces the risk of cavity formation and gum disease during treatment.
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Comfortable: The smooth plastic nature of invisible aligners is more comfortable than brackets and wires. These invisible aligners will not have any sharp edges to irritate gums and cheeks.
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No Diet Restrictions: As the aligners are removable they can be removed while eating this allows for no dietary restrictions. Whereas in orthodontic braces some foods should be avoided to reduce the damage.
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Predictable Treatment Planning: As the treatment planning is generated using computers which means the tooth movements are accurately using this system, individuals can see the result of the treatment before starting the treatment.
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Less Appointments: Though regular checkups are necessary the frequency of the appointments is less when compared to the traditional orthodontic braces method.
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Treating Mild Issues: Invisible aligners effectively treat minor bite issues, minor spacing and crowding, and other mild to moderate orthodontic problems.
What Are the Ways to Maintain Oral Hygiene With Invisible Aligners?
Maintaining oral hygiene is essential while under treatment with invisible aligners for achieving effective results and preventing various dental problems. Some of the oral hygiene instructions include
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Regular Brushing: The patient should brush their teeth regularly after every meal and before inserting the aligners after the meal. The patient should use a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Brushing should be done using proper brushing techniques to remove all the plaque and food particles.
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Proper Cleansing of Aligners: The patient should rinse their aligners with warm water every time they remove them. Aligners should not be cleaned with hot water as it can warp the plastic. The patient should use a special aligner cleaning crystal or clear antibacterial soap to clean it. Toothpaste should not be used as it can scratch the aligner.
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Flossing the Teeth: The patient should floss their teeth daily which helps to remove the debris and plaque that are accumulated between the teeth. Flossing prevents cavity formation and gum disease.
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Limited Sugary Foods: The patient should avoid sugary foods as they increase the risk of cavity formation.
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Avoid Staining Foods: The patient should avoid foods and drinks that can stain the teeth. Some include coffee, soda, red wine, tea, acidic fruits, juice, soy sauce, and more.
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Hydration: The patient should drink plenty of water to maintain saliva production. Drinking water may also help in washing away debris. The patient should especially drink after taking any beverages other than water.
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Routine Checkups: Regular check-up is essential to monitor oral hygiene.
Conclusion
Invisible aligners provide a perfect smile for individuals by satisfying them with all the considerations like aesthetically pleasing, comfortable, removable, no restrictions in eating, and more. Following all the ways to maintain oral hygiene while using invisible aligners is essential. Reaching out to a dentist regarding this may be beneficial.