What to Know About Straightening Teeth With Clear Aligners

You have likely heard of clear aligners as a way to repair crooked teeth and bite problems. But how familiar are you with the process and benefits that this approach can offer? There are some similarities between clear aligners and metal braces. However, the differences between them can be significant. To help you feel comfortable about pursuing this teeth-straightening treatment, you can learn more about how it works and whether it is right for you. Moving forward, you can then feel positive about choosing clear aligners to restore your teeth and get the smile you have always wanted.

What clear aligners can fix

Aligners most often straighten crooked teeth. People with mild or moderate cases typically pick aligners. These clear plastic appliances fit snugly over the teeth. Clear aligners gradually force the patient’s teeth to move into the right locations in the mouth. Aligners also repair bite problems such as crossbites, underbites, and overbites. Patients with gaps between teeth or who have a crowded mouth should also consider getting aligners to fix these issues.

Aligners are removable

One of the biggest differences between aligners and braces is that clear aligners are removable. Patients can remove aligners as necessary throughout the day. In fact, the appliance does not even need to be in 24 hours a day, though the person should wear it for at least 21 hours during this period. The dentist will recommend taking the appliance out to eat and clean.

The patient will get new aligners often

Treatment with clear aligners does not require frequent visits to the dentist. With clear aligners, the dentist gives the patient a whole new appliance every few weeks. The new set will conform to the teeth as they change throughout the treatment period. Thus, moving the teeth to their right place.

Treatment time is usually shorter

Another big draw to clear aligners is that the treatment should not take as long. Aligners normally take about 12 months to 18 months to straighten teeth. Some people see results in as few as six months. Treatment lengths will vary according to a person’s diligence and care. It will also depend on the severity of the patient’s condition.

Aligners are more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing

The clear aligners are lightweight and comfortable in the mouth. The aligners should not cause soreness in the mouth or rub against the gums, cheeks, and tongue. Aligners also do not stand out and hamper the person’s smile. People who wear this appliance are much less likely to feel self-conscious about having it.

Caring for clear aligners

For some people, teeth straightening must happen to achieve a beautiful smile. Clear aligners are the ideal dental straightening devices that can help them have a stunning smile. This is for people who do not want traditional braces. It is also for patients who want to avoid negative attention from wearing teeth straightening devices. Maintaining these aligners is important for the treatment’s success. Here are some pointers to consider:

• Floss and brush before wearing the aligners. The mouth always contains bacteria. Minimizing them can prevent dental problems while wearing clear aligners. Practicing this type of oral care can help keep the mouth fresher for longer.
• Rinse the aligners when not in use. Do this before placing the aligners in the hard case. Rinsing removes saliva and clinging bacteria. This will prevent the buildup of these microbes on the aligners.
• Use lukewarm water when cleaning clear aligners. Plastic material contracts and expands. Lukewarm water is the right type of water to prevent the aligners from changing shape.
• Stay away from colored beverages. These drinks will stain the aligners if the patient forgets to remove them. Water is the only beverage the patient can drink while the aligners are on.
• Refrain from using toothpaste on the aligners. This cleaning product can scratch the aligners and make them look dull. This will make the aligners less invisible. The scratches may also serve as breeding areas for bacteria.
• Remove the aligners while playing contact sports. Do this while going on a rough adventure outdoors. When the aligners are outside the mouth, place them in a hard case. This will prevent the patient from losing or damaging them.

Choose a different method to straighten your teeth

It is apparent that clear aligners have lots of advantages and benefits. This treatment can work well and help you achieve your oral health goals. Talk to your dentist today about whether you are a good candidate for clear aligners. This is your way to a beautiful and healthy smile and good overall oral health.

Request an appointment here: https://www.southerncalsmiles.com or call Southern Cal Smiles: Susan Fredericks, D.D.S, M.P.H. at (818) 657-8055 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Clear Aligners in Woodland Hills, CA.