Clear aligners are an effective, cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces, because they use a system of clear, removable trays used to straighten teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit over your teeth and is designed to gradually move teeth into their proper position.
How Clear Aligners Work
Just like braces, clear aligners use gradual force to control tooth movement, but without any metal wires or brackets. The aligners are made with a strong plastic material that is fabricated to fit your mouth. As treatment progresses you switch aligners. Each aligner is a little different, so your teeth move a little more with every change.
- Custom Design: Your orthodontist begins by taking digital impressions or scans of your teeth to create a precise 3D model. Using this model, a series of aligners is created, each designed to move teeth slightly closer to their ideal position.
- Gradual Shifts: Each set of aligners is worn every day for at least 22 hours per day. After about one or two weeks, you’ll move on to the next aligner set in the series. The aligners exert gentle pressure on specific teeth, shifting them over time.
- Monitoring Progress: You’ll typically need to check in with your orthodontist every six to eight weeks so we can monitor your progress and give you the next sets of aligners.
Why choose clear aligners for orthodontic treatment?
- Aesthetic Appeal: Aligners are transparent and nearly invisible, making them an excellent choice for those who want a subtle treatment.
- Comfort: Without metal brackets or wires, there’s less risk of mouth irritation, and aligners are smooth and comfortable to wear.
- Removable: The aligners can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing, which allows for easier oral hygiene compared to traditional braces.
- Flexibility: Whether you’re a teen involved in sports or an adult with a busy social calendar, aligners fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
- Effectiveness: Clear aligners can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild crowding and spacing to more complex cases involving overbites or crossbites.
- Fewer Emergencies: With no wires or brackets to break, clear aligners tend to result in fewer orthodontic emergencies, like poking wires or broken brackets.
If you're interested in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, schedule an appointment and talk to your orthodontist about whether this is the right treatment option for you. It’s the first step toward achieving the beautiful smile you've always wanted!
