Who Clear Aligners Are For

Clear aligners are a treatment to correct various orthodontic and cosmetic issues. You may have thought that metal braces were the only solution to fixing a crooked smile. However, aligners have benefits too. If you are interested in an alternative, talk to your dentist. If you are not sure whether you would be the right candidate, you can find out which situations make the most sense for this type of treatment.

An overview of clear aligners

Aligners are practically invisible because they are made of clear plastic. There are no brackets and wires standing out readily in a person’s mouth. The aligners are mouthguard-like appliances that fit over a person’s teeth. The apparatus puts constant pressure on the patient’s teeth, moving them into the correct places in the mouth.

To fit a patient with aligners, the dentist will take X-rays and 3D images. The patient will get new aligners at each appointment — every couple of weeks. The person will wear the aligners for 21 to 22 hours a day. Treatment time lasts anywhere from 12 to 24 months for most people.

For adults

It may seem rare for adult patients to choose a teeth-straightening method. However, people of all ages have cosmetic concerns that affect their smile. Clear aligners are a good solution for older people who do not want the embarrassment of clunky metal braces. This can be especially true for working professionals who are frequently in social settings. Many adults who wore braces earlier in life but did not get the results they wanted wear aligners.

For people with crooked teeth

This is perhaps the most common condition that dentists treat. Crooked teeth can hinder anyone’s smile. This issue can also cause problems with a person’s oral health, as it is difficult to effectively brush and floss crooked teeth. Clear aligners can straighten teeth in as few as six months.

For people with bite abnormalities

Similarly, patients who suffer from bite dysfunctions may seek to get clear aligners. This can be an effective approach for people with mild and moderate conditions. Aligners can move the jaw into the correct position. The dentist may recommend aligners in case of an overbite, crossbite, or underbite. If the problems are severe, however, aligners may not be the right solution.

For people with a crowded mouth

When there is not enough room in the mouth for all teeth, it can pose health challenges. This also creates an unsightly smile. The teeth will become twisted and will come in at odd angles. Clear aligners can help to evenly space out the teeth. This not only improves the aesthetics of the person’s mouth, but it becomes less challenging to brush and floss.

Benefits of clear aligners

An individual, who does not want to wear brackets and wires, will want clear aligners. These dental appliances are discreet and comfortable. That is why teens and adults prefer them to traditional braces. Here are the benefits of this dental alignment system if the patient is considering it:

• It makes dental care easier. Clear aligners are removable. That is why brushing and flossing are easier to do than working through fixed brackets and wires. This is an easier and quicker way to clean the aligners as well.
• It is an invisible system. These dental appliances are almost invisible with proper care and maintenance. It is the right system for patients who do not want to deal with brackets and wires. The negative attention one gets from having traditional braces can result in anxiety and depression. Wearing these clear aligners can give the patient a higher level of self-esteem. It can also remove negative feelings.
• It makes the patient less prone to injuries and chronic ailments. Crooked teeth make a person prone to many dental issues like enamel erosion and cavities. Dental misalignment can also cause chronic headaches and speech issues.
• It does not have food restrictions. Clear aligners will not prevent the patient from eating any type of food.
• It prevents dental discoloration. Traditional braces often cause white spot lesions on teeth. This can be difficult to treat. Clear aligners do not stick to one’s teeth. That is why they cannot leave stains on dental surfaces.

See where you stand with aligners

If you are unhappy with your smile, clear aligners could be just what you need. Evaluate your needs and goals. Then, schedule an appointment with your dentist. If you fall into one of these categories, it is likely that aligners are for you and can change your appearance.

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