Achieve a Perfect Smile: How Clear Aligners Work and What to Expect

They are clear and transparent trays that seamlessly straighten crooked teeth. It is the latest orthodontic tool, and it is easy to use and is not noticeable when worn.   

Aligners are different from traditional braces, which can be removed from the mouth before eating and cleaning teeth.   

It gives faster results than traditional braces.  

Aligners are also called clear aligners since it is transparent.  

In aligner treatment, a series of clear trays bring movement to the teeth. Each tray exerts gentle pressure on your crooked teeth to shift them to their desired positions.  

Your dentist shall instruct you to wear aligner trays for 20 to 22 hours per day. Each set of trays is changed every two weeks and then switched to the next set.  

Aligners take approximately six months to eighteen months of time to align your teeth. The duration of the treatment also depends on the complexity of your misaligned teeth.    

Four Reasons You May Need Aligner Treatment 

The crooked teeth not only affect your looks but may also affect your oral health and overall well-being. Maintaining clean teeth is challenging and will later lead to gum infection and tooth decay.  

Crooked teeth can cause teeth bite problems, and you may be unable to chew correctly. Speech will not be evident due to misaligned teeth.  

Eventually, it will lower your self-confidence and self-esteem.   

The following are the conditions under which aligners can correctly orient your teeth.  

1) Bite issues: You will not be able to close your mouth correctly if teeth are misaligned or rotated.  

Following are a few bite problems that aligners can correct.  

 Overbite: It is the vertical misalignment of teeth where the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth. This condition is also called deep bite. In this, people will find difficulty chewing. In lower teeth, gum inflammation is seen. Aligners can be of great help, as they align teeth and remove bite issues.   

Crossbite: It is the horizontal misalignment of teeth, where the upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth. It can be painful while chewing and speaking.   

Openbite: It is a condition where people are unable to properly close their mouth due to obstruction caused by misaligned teeth. People experience difficulty while eating food.   

2) Crowding of teeth:  

The teeth are not aligned properly due to insufficient space in the jaws. Cleaning teeth is not easy with crowded teeth. It gives rise to tooth decay and bad breath.  

3) Gapped teeth:  

Spacing between the teeth gives an unpleasing look. The food easily gets stuck between the teeth.  

4)  Crooked teeth:  

Crooked teeth should be aligned to prevent bite problems and jaw pains.  

Four Things to Know before Aligner Treatment  

They Are Custom-Made 

Aligners are customized according to your dental needs. They are designed using 3D scans of your teeth. This ensures a precise fit on your teeth. These trays will gradually move your teeth.   

Each aligner is tailored to achieve specific adjustments. This makes them a personalized solution for straightening teeth discreetly and effectively.  

They Are Invisible to the Naked Eye 

Aligners are virtually invisible because they are made from transparent plastic sheet. This discreet appearance allows them to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. It is hardly visible to notice when worn.   

Aligners are an attractive option for you, if you want to straighten teeth without the conspicuous look of traditional metal braces.   

It is easy to maintain and are more aesthetically pleasing.  

They Are Removable 

Aligners are removable dental devices. You can remove them before eating, drinking, or cleaning your teeth.  

It is more convenient and flexible than traditional braces. You can easily binge on your favourite meals without any hesitation.  However, they must be worn consistently for optimal results, as directed by your dentist.  

The Final Outcome Can Be Predicted.  

Aligners offer predictable final outcomes thanks to advanced technology and planning. Dentists use 3D scans and digital simulations to create a detailed treatment plan. It is easy to map out each stage of teeth movement. With virtual 3D scans, you can get an idea of the final outcome of your treatment. It enables accurate predictions of how your teeth will align by the end of the treatment.  

This technology ensures precise teeth movements. Digital planning helps you achieve your dream smile.   

Essential Precautions Are to Be Taken with Aligner Treatment: 

Regular Cleaning of Aligners:  

The aligners should be regularly cleaned with tap water and disinfectant. It shall maintain the translucency of the clear trays.   

 Remove Aligners when Drinking Stained Beverages.  

Drinking stained beverages with aligners can discolour the tray. It will lose translucency.   

Do Not Chew or Eat with Aligners.  

Aligners should be removed before eating as it can damage the aligner trays. They should be kept in their designated boxes.   

Aligners can be a one-stop solution to all sorts of malocclusions. It is a smart tool backed by the latest technology for straightening teeth. It is comfortable to wear, and you can align teeth without getting noticed.   

So, having a dream smile is hassle-free with aligners.