Clear Aligners: 5 Facts You Need to Know

Clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening teeth. They are made of a thin, transparent plastic material and are virtually invisible when worn. Aligners work by gradually shifting your teeth into place over time.

If you are considering clear braces, here are five facts you need to know:

1. Clear aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth.

When you start clear aligner treatment, your orthodontist will take a mold of your teeth to create a custom set of aligners. This ensures that the aligners fit snugly and comfortably and provide the most effective treatment.

2. Clear aligners are removable.

Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. This makes them a convenient option for people who want to maintain their normal lifestyle during orthodontic treatment.

3. Clear aligners are made from a thermoplastic material.

Thermoplastic materials are soft and flexible when heated, but they become hard and durable when cooled. This makes them ideal for clear aligners, as they can be molded to fit your teeth precisely and provide the necessary force to move your teeth into place.

4. Clear aligners must be worn 22 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For aligners to be effective, they must be worn for at least 22 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means only removing them to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. If you do not wear your aligners for the recommended time, your treatment will take longer and may not be as effective.

5. Clear aligners are designed for comfort.

Aligners are designed to be comfortable to wear. They are made from a smooth, thin plastic material that does not irritate your gums or cheeks. Clear aligners also have a gradual pressure system that applies gentle force to your teeth over time, minimizing any discomfort.

Additional benefits of aligners

In addition to the five facts listed above, aligners offer a number of other benefits, including:

• Improved oral health: Straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain, which can help reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Increased confidence: A straight smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
• Minimal lifestyle changes: Clear braces are removable, so you can eat, drink, and brush your teeth normally. You can also participate in sports and other activities without having to worry about your braces.

Who is a good candidate for clear aligners?

Invisalign® is a good option for people with mild to moderate tooth alignment problems. They are also a good option for people seeking a more discreet orthodontic treatment option.

However, aligners are not suitable for everyone. If you have severe tooth alignment problems or other dental issues, your orthodontist may recommend traditional metal braces or other orthodontic treatments.

How much do clear aligners cost?

The cost of aligners varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case and the type of clear aligners you choose. However, aligners are generally comparable in cost to traditional metal braces.

Most dental insurance plans cover aligner treatment, either partially or fully. Be sure to check with your insurance company to see what coverage is available to you.

Conclusion

Aligners are a popular and effective way to straighten teeth. They are comfortable, removable, and virtually invisible. If you are considering aligners, call us and set a consultation today to see if they are right for you.