Everyone wishes to have a beautiful smile, but the idea of getting metal braces puts us off. It is a crucial decision for people with crooked or misaligned teeth. A perfect smile is an asset, and it enhances your straightening teeth with metal wires. But with invisible aligners entering the world of orthodontics, the whole process has become easy and comfortable. Let’s dive into what they are, how they work, and why they are best for your smile.
What Are Invisible Aligners?
Invisible aligners are clear, custom-made plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Since they are made of transparent material, others cannot notice them when you wear them. You can wear invisible aligners without feeling self-conscious about metal wires and brackets showing. They’re custom-made for your teeth, gently moving them into the correct position over time.
How Do They Work?
On meeting with the dentist for an initial consultation, scans are taken of the mouth, and the 3D virtual setup is used to determine how many sets of aligners a patient will need during the entire span of their treatment. Once the treatment begins, the patient wears each set of aligners for 1-2 weeks, 20-22 hours a day or as directed by the dentist, before moving on to the next set. These customized sets of aligners move the teeth slowly to the desired position. After the treatment ends, the patient may have to wear retainers to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their old position.
Advantages of Invisible Aligners
Transparent: These aligners are made with transparent plastic material. This material offers an invisible look to the aligners. No one can tell you’re wearing them when you laugh, talk, or smile.
Comfortable: The absence of metal brackets means that wire tightening won’t cause agonizing strain. Your gums and cheeks won’t get hurt by the smooth plastic trays. Less painful than metal braces, invisible aligners provide light pressure on the teeth.
Removable: Invisible aligners allow you to eat and drink your favourite foodstuff. When you eat, brush, and floss, you can remove them. There is very little chance of getting tooth cavities or decay with aligners as you can maintain your oral health.
Convenient: Aligners need fewer visits to the orthodontist. You’ll typically only need to check in every 6-8 weeks (about two months).
How Can You Get Your Invisible Aligners?
Initial Consultation: The first step is booking an appointment with your orthodontist or a certified provider of invisible aligners. During this visit, they’ll assess your teeth to determine if aligners fit you.
3D Scans or Impressions: Your dentist will take your mouth scans or impressions to prepare custom-made aligners for your case. The scans help your dentist prepare a treatment plan that includes the treatment time, number of aligners, and other guidelines. The advanced software is used in aligners to process your scans and create a vision of your future smile even before you start treatment.
Wearing Your Aligners: The dental lab will receive mouth images from your dentist. Your aligners will be delivered to you in a few weeks. You will receive multiple sets, each somewhat distinct from the other. You will wear each pair for approximately two weeks for 20–22 hours daily.
Regular Check-ups: You will have fewer visits for aligners than with traditional braces. Since there are no metal wires, aligners would need physical adjustments. You need to switch to a new set of aligners in a week or two. Visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure your treatment is on the right track.
Day-to-Day Life with Aligners: Invisible aligners are adaptable to your lifestyle. They suit your needs and do not restrict your diet or routine as metal braces. They remain comfortable with exerting mild pressure on your teeth. All these make aligners more comfortable than other options. Plus, you can wear them all the time and everywhere without getting noticed.
Eating and Drinking: You can take out your aligners to eat, which is one of the main benefits. Thus, you can eat all the dishes you enjoy without worrying about anything. To prevent discoloration, remember to wash your teeth before replacing them.
Cleaning Your Aligners: Keep your aligners clean and store them in a safe place. Rinse them every time you take them out, and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and some toothpaste. Some people prefer to soak them in a cleaning solution.
Tips for Successful Outcome
As you start your aligner treatment, it might take you some time to get used to it. It’s normal to experience some initial tooth pressure. It also shows that the aligners are operating as intended. You may also notice a tiny shift in how you speak, but this will become normal in time.
Here are some tips that you should follow for an effective result:
Wear Time: The more you wear your aligners for the required time. You may need to wear them for 20-22 hours daily or more. They can straighten your teeth faster, and they work more effectively.
Store Aligners: Wash your aligners with plain water before using them. Also, wash them after use before you keep them in the aligner box. Clean aligners are less noticeable and better for your oral health.
Follow Instructions: You must adhere to all your dentist’s recommendations. It will assist you in getting the intended outcomes in the allotted time.
Maintain Oral Hygiene Practices: You must brush your teeth and rinse your mouth well before
Conclusion
The orthodontic treatment is now better and hassle-free with invisible aligners. They offer a discrete, comfortable and efficient method of tooth straightening. Invisible aligners may be the solution if you’d like a flawless smile without the hassle of metal braces. They help you get the smile of your dreams and fit effortlessly into your regular schedule.
So, why do you hesitate? Speak with your orthodontist and take the first step. That flawless smile of yours is almost here!
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