If you are interested in orthodontically correction your teeth, but uncomfortable wearing braces or metal appliances, clear aligners may be the ideal solution for you. Always evolving and improving, teeth alignment treatments with clear aligners have gained in popularity and effectiveness over the past few years.
Clear aligners are a modern and almost invisible way of correcting many types of orthodontic problems. Treatment with clear aligners allows for teeth to be aligned in the same way as with conventional braces, while being more discreet, comfortable and removable. This type of treatment is designed for adults and teenagers.
Clear aligner treatment uses computer software that virtually positions the teeth to the desired final result, as directed by the orthodontic specialist. He or she will then be able to show you, through virtual simulation, the expected outcome of the treatment. It’s very exciting to see one’s teeth virtually align. If satisfied with the proposed result, your dentist or orthodondist can then order the series of clear aligners necessary for your treatment and you will be off to a great start!
Follow-up visits generally occur with the same frequency as for conventional braces, namely 6 to 8 weeks. Clear aligners are changed, on average, every week, as prescribed by your dentist or orthodontist. Each aligner is designed and manufactured to apply specific pressure that allows the teeth to move in the manner determined by your dentist or orthodontist.
In general, orthodontic treatment with clear aligners is faster than treatment with braces (conventional braces). Since the patient is largely responsible for his or her treatment, he or she has to be determined to wear the braces all the time so that treatment does not take longer than originally planned or gets compromised. In fact, the aligners must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day, every day. Failure to do so will greatly undermine the success of the orthodontic treatment.
Lastly, oral hygiene care remains an easy task, since all you have to do is remove the clear aligners to brush and floss your teeth. However, you must be consistent in your oral hygiene care and remove the aligners after each meal or snack so that you clean and brush your teeth and prevent the development of cavities or periodontal disease.
Handling the aligners may seem difficult at the beginning of your treatment. Our staff will make sure you are properly informed and well equipped. This will make handling easier, including your daily oral hygiene routine, when you come to have your first aligners set in place.
To find out if orthodontic treatment with clear aligners is right for you, we suggest you make an appointment with a Lapointe Dental Centre professional.
