Are You Avoiding Braces?
Traditional metal braces can be conspicuous and uncomfortable, so if you are an adult in need of braces, you may be too embarrassed to bother with braces treatment. If you are avoiding braces, consult with your dentist and ask if they provide clear aligners. Clear aligners are an option for older teens, young adults, and older adults. They are barely noticeable and therefore will not bring attention to the fact that you are wearing braces.
What are Clear Aligners?
An alternative to traditional metal braces, clear aligners are another way to guide your teeth into proper position. The differences between clear aligners and braces are:
- Aligners are a comfortable plastic material.
- Aligners do not require wires or brackets and, therefore, do not require tightening.
- Aligner treatment can be much shorter than traditional braces treatment: from as short as three weeks to as long as six months (sometimes more).
- Aligners can be removed during meals and to brush and floss your teeth.
How They Work
Aligners are custom-created to fit your bite. Several sets of aligners will be fabricated according to your treatment plan. You will wear each set of aligners for about three weeks and then trade them out for the next set. As you work through each set, your teeth will be gradually moved into proper alignment. In order for treatment to be effective, the aligners should be worn at least 20 hours each day.
Advantages
Besides reduced treatment time, the fact that they are barely noticeable, and their comfort, clear aligners offer other advantages including:
- They are removable so they are easier to keep clean.
- They are less likely to irritate your cheeks and gums than wire braces.
- They can help prevent grinding.