When it comes to straightening teeth, many people think of traditional metal braces. But for those looking for a more subtle and comfortable option, clear aligners have become a popular alternative. Aligners offer a way to correct misaligned teeth without the noticeable appearance and inconvenience of metal brackets and wires.
In this blog, we’ll dive into what aligners are, how they work, and why they might be the perfect solution for you.
What are Aligners?
Aligners are clear, plastic trays used to straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal brackets and wires. They’re custom-made to fit your teeth and work by gradually moving them into the right position over time.
Popular brands like Invisalign and ClearCorrect are well-known in the world of aligners in Kingsgrove.
Unlike traditional orthodontic treatment, aligners are made from smooth, transparent material, making them almost invisible when worn. You can take them out when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, which makes maintaining good oral hygiene much easier compared to braces.
Best of all, aligners work without impacting your daily life.
How do Aligners Work?
When you start wearing aligners, your teeth are in their original positions. The aligners fit snugly but do not exert any force just yet.
As you begin wearing your first aligner, the material applies gentle pressure on specific teeth which encourages the teeth to move toward the desired position.
For teeth to move, the surrounding bone needs to adapt. When pressure is applied to a tooth, the bone on one side of the tooth is resorbed (broken down), while new bone is formed on the opposite side. This process, called bone remodelling, is essential for tooth movement and takes place gradually over time.
After wearing each aligner for the prescribed time, you’ll switch to the next aligner in the series. Each new aligner is slightly different, continuing the process of applying pressure to different teeth as they shift.
Once you’ve gone through all the aligners in your treatment plan, your teeth will have moved into their final positions. At this stage, your dentist will assess the alignment and may recommend a retainer to help maintain your new smile.
The Advantages of Clear Aligners over Traditional Orthodontic Treatment
Aligners offer a lot of benefits over traditional orthodontic treatments. Here are some of the advantages we’ve observed:
- Nearly Invisible: Aligners are made of clear plastic, making them far less noticeable than metal braces. Many people prefer this discreet option, especially adults who don’t want their orthodontic treatment to stand out.
- Removable. Aligners can be removed when needed. This allows you to eat your favourite foods without worrying about damaging any wires or brackets. It also makes brushing and flossing easier since you don’t have to navigate around hardware in your mouth.
- Comfortable. Aligners are made from smooth plastic, which is gentler on your gums and the inside of your mouth. You won’t have to deal with the discomfort of wires poking or brackets causing sores.
- Predictable Results. With advanced technology, your dentist can show you a digital preview of how your teeth will move throughout your treatment, giving you a clearer idea of what to expect.
- Shorter Treatment Duration. While treatment duration varies from person to person, aligners can often deliver results faster than traditional orthodontic treatment, thanks to their innovative technology.
Are Aligners Right for You?
Aligners are a great option for people with mild to moderate misalignments, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Slight overbites or underbites
Severe dental issues or jaw alignment problems might still require traditional braces or other treatments. Another important factor is that aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day to be effective, so commitment to the process is key.
If you’re unsure whether aligners are right for you, consult with your Kingsgrove dentist. They’ll be able to assess your situation and recommend the best course of action.
The Aligners Process at Advanced Dental Practice
The process of getting clear aligners at our Kingsgrove practice is pretty simple.
- After a consultation with your dentist, they will take a 3D scan or impressions of your teeth. From there, a custom treatment plan is created. You’ll be given a series of aligners, each one slightly different, which you’ll wear for about 1 to 2 weeks before switching to the next set.
- Over time, these small adjustments help guide your teeth into the desired position. On average, aligners are worn for 20-22 hours a day, and you’ll only remove them for eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth.
- You’ll have regular check-ups with your dentist to monitor your progress. These appointments are usually quick and scheduled every 6-8 weeks.
- Once you’ve worked your way through all your aligners, you’ll have reached your final set, and your teeth should now be in their desired position. Your dentist will confirm that the treatment is complete and that your teeth are correctly aligned.
After months of wearing your aligners, you’ll finally get to enjoy the results: a straighter, healthier smile.
The full treatment can take anywhere from 6-18 months, depending on the complexity of your case. After your treatment is complete, your dentist may recommend retainers to maintain the new position of your teeth.
Get Aligners in Kingsgrove at Advanced Dental Practice
Aligners are not just a trend; they are a legitimate and effective way to straighten teeth and enhance your smile. By using a series of custom-made, clear trays that apply gentle pressure, aligners move your teeth into the desired position gradually and comfortably.
If you’re ready to transform your smile with aligners, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our team is happy to guide you through the process and help you achieve a straighter, more confident smile.
