Orthodontic technology is continuously improving in terms of comfort, results, and appearance. This last element “appearance,” in particular, is an element of orthodontic treatment that has been innovated over the years in order to offer orthodontic patients treatment plans that are as discreet as possible. Clear aligners are a leading solution to this aesthetic quest.
Clear aligners are also known as invisible braces or Invisalign (which is actually a brand name, but has become a generic term to describe this type of orthodontic treatment). Whatever you call them though, clear aligners have the ability to move teeth to create healthy, beautiful smiles with many benefits.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
Like all other types of braces, clear aligners move your teeth little by little until they reach the desired positions as prescribed by your North Scarborough orthodontist. These positions are determined before treatment begins through a thorough examination, followed by the completion of various diagnostic records such as x-rays, photographs, impressions, and/or digital scans of your teeth. Utilizing these diagnostic tools, your orthodontist, Dr. Stanley Markin, will work out an orthodontic treatment plan with you and then utilize aligner software to create sets of clear aligners that will match your mouth and guide your teeth to the desired end goal—your straight and healthy smile.
Aligners in Motion
Clear aligners continuously put gentle pressure on your teeth—repositioning them a tiny bit at a time. Your orthodontist will prescribe a certain amount of time they should be worn each day, but usually the average is around 22 hours a day. You will wear each set of aligners for a week or two before moving on to the next set. Your total number of clear aligners and time wearing these invisible braces will vary. But eventually they will move your teeth into their new target positions. Given that the slow movement of teeth is a very technical process, you will continue to visit your orthodontist for regular check-ups throughout treatment approximately every six to ten weeks.
Pros & Cons of Clear Aligners
Top Pros
- These “invisible braces” got their name for a reason. Clear aligners are virtually unnoticeable.
- You can remove clear aligners (unlike traditional braces) for eating, brushing and flossing your teeth, or short periods of time for important social situations.
- Clear aligners do not utilize metal brackets or wires, so they can be more comfortable.
Top Cons
- Clear aligners may not be right for every type of orthodontic problem. Some more severe cases may require different types of braces.
- If you drink something while wearing your clear braces, the liquid can seep into the aligners and will stay there until they are removed. Depending on the type of drink, this could influence teeth staining/discoloration and tooth decay.
- Because aligners are removable, patients may be tempted to take them out often, which could lead to the aligners being lost or treatment time taking longer.
Additional Clear Aligner Tips
In order to get the best orthodontic treatment experience possible with your invisible braces, we also recommend the following:
- Be sure to brush your teeth thoroughly after eating/before putting your aligners back in.
- Use fluoride toothpaste; it strengthens teeth.
- Make a habit of putting your clear aligners back in their case when not in use.
- Keep your aligners out of the reach of any pets/animals or problems may ensue.
- If anything happens to your clear aligners, contact our North Scarborough office to make an appointment with your orthodontist.
Are Clear Aligners Right for Me?
The best way to answer this question is by consulting your trusted North Scarborough orthodontist. Dr. Stanley Markin is a proud member of many prestigious orthodontic organizations, such as the Canadian Dental Association, Ontario Association of Orthodontists, Alpha Omega Dental Society, American Association of Orthodontists, and many more. These organizations are for doctors with the utmost skill and experience in the dental and orthodontic field. The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) for example, is for orthodontic specialists who have great expertise in dentofacial orthopedics as a result of high standards of education and years of completed residency programs.
As such, whenever a new patient comes into our North Scarborough office, you can be sure you are getting high quality, customized treatment at every turn. Dr. Markin will be very thorough in examining your teeth, assessing your oral/dental needs, and making recommendations for what type of orthodontic treatment would best benefit your smile.
Try Invisible Braces Today
Clear aligners (invisible braces or Invisalign) are a great way to get a beautiful, healthy smile through an aesthetically pleasing, inconspicuous form of orthodontic treatment. If you’d like to see if clear aligners are right for you, please make an appointment at Braceland Orthodontists today. We look forward to seeing you in our North Scarborough office and helping you achieve an amazing, straight smile!