A straighter smile can enhance an individual’s appearance and increase one’s confidence, and Invisalign® is one way to achieve this. While metal braces have been the main solution for straightening teeth for many years, invisible aligners allow people to address common orthodontic issues without having to spend months with unattractive metal attached to the teeth. This is especially desirable for older teenagers or adults who need orthodontic treatment. Continue reading to learn how clear braces work and the many benefits of this option.
While traditional braces use brackets and metal wires to move teeth into a more desirable position, Invisalign® are aligners that fit over the teeth like a retainer and use pressure to shift teeth over a set course of time. Attachments may be placed directly on the teeth to secure the aligners, and dental bands are sometimes required to help align the jaw. Often used for minor or moderate cases, clear braces can be used to address the following common issues:
Patients are given several different sets of aligners, referred to as trays. These trays are often worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next aligner. For the desired results, patients must wear the aligner for 22 hours a day.
After the patient finishes wearing all the aligners in the set, the orthodontist will determine if any refinements need to be made. Once the desired result is achieved, all attachments are removed and the patient is given retainers to wear at night to prevent shifting.
One of the main benefits of clear aligners is that patients are able to transform teeth without having to compromise the mouth’s appearance during the treatment process. These clear braces are often transparent from a distance and in pictures. Unlike traditional braces that require patients to exclude certain foods, patients can simply remove Invisalign® for meals. Being able to remove the braces also makes it easier to effectively clean teeth since there are no metal wires for food to get stuck under.
Clear aligners also often take less time than braces to align teeth since this treatment type places force on the entire mouth instead of individual teeth. Many patients also find that this option is more comfortable than traditional braces since the plastic is less likely to cut the gums than the metal used for regular braces, and there is less pressure placed on the teeth when using aligners.
While many patients can benefit from using Invisalign® to help them achieve a more desirable smile, more severe cases might require traditional metal braces. Patients will also need to be disciplined about wearing the aligners for the required daily time period. Since both traditional and clear braces are effective at improving one’s smile, it is ultimately up to the patient to decide whether Invisalign® is the right option for their unique needs and lifestyle.
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