What are aligners?
Clear Aligners are transparent trays made of special material which are used to straighten teeth just like braces. They use gentle and constant force to move the teeth in the required position without going through the hassles of metal wires and brackets. They are custom made for each patient through a digital scan.
How do aligners work?
Teeth aligners are created from moulds or digital scans of your teeth. These moulds are used to create a series of clear plastic mouthpieces that put gentle pressure on your teeth and gradually move them into proper dental alignment. You will wear each set of mouthpieces for 1-2 weeks before switching to a new set that will move your teeth to slightly different positions.
How long does the aligner treatment take?
For simple cases, treatment time with Invisalign aligners can be as short as six months. Typically, Invisalign will take 12 months to 18 months to straighten your teeth. For more complex cases such as crowded teeth, the treatment time could be 24 months or slightly longer.
Are aligners better than braces?
Braces are better for people with severe crookedness and most kids and teens. Invisalign and other brands of clear aligners are best for adults who want a nearly invisible and more comfortable straightening method, as long as the teeth aren't too crooked.
Advantages of aligners over braces.
1. Aesthetics is one of the top most priority in aligners and cannot be seen with easily with naked eyes unlike braces.
2. No changing of metal wires or elastics.
3. Appointment sessions are reduced.
4. Treatment time is less.
5. Oral hygiene is maintained much better than with braces.
6. No restriction on types of food.
Procedure involved in aligners
1. Full mouth X-ray is taken.
2. Impressions are taken of the whole mouth. These impressions can be digital too.
3. Scanning of these impressions is done.
4. 3D models are made with thermoplastic material which fits snuggly on the teeth over the period of time to correct the mal-alignment.
5. These aligners are then delivered to the patient.
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