By Invisible braces are a popular option for patients who want to straighten their teeth, but don’t want to deal with metal brackets and wires. These clear, removable aligners are molded to fit over the teeth and move them into the desired position in a gradual process that takes about nine months to a year, depending on the patient’s treatment needs.
Invisalign – The original Invisible braces, these aligners consist of clear plastic trays that are custom-formed to the individual’s mouth and then worn for 20 to 22 hours a day until the desired position has been achieved. They can be removed for eating and brushing, but must be worn at least 10 hours a night during the entire treatment period.
Lingual braces – The most discreet of the three options, lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth rather than the outsides of them like traditional braces. They are also less visible than ceramic or clear braces because they’re not made from metal and can be color matched to the patient’s teeth.
Ceramic braces – These braces are a bit more opaque than lingual or clear aligners, and they use tooth-colored brackets to straighten the teeth. They can be a bit more expensive than other alternatives, but they are a popular option for patients who don’t want to have metal brackets on their teeth.
They are most often used to treat minor spacing and bite issues, although they can be useful in treating a few severe orthodontic problems such as overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bites. They can also help to fix teeth that are crooked, rotated or crowded and can even be used for closing small gaps between the front teeth.
These aligners are typically more comfortable than metal braces, and can be removed to eat, brush, floss and drink. They can also be more flexible than fixed or removable braces, so if you want to change your aligner mid-treatment, it’s easy to do.
There are many different brands of Invisalign aligners, each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. The most important consideration is whether you are committed to wearing your aligners for the recommended time each day and following the instructions that come with them, such as limiting your intake of certain foods.
Some of the brands may require more frequent in-office adjustments than others, so be sure to ask your dentist or orthodontist about your options and what’s involved.
Each aligner will take a few days to get used to and some people experience mild soreness at first. However, this is only temporary and will soon dissipate as the patient wears the aligners more consistently.
This is a great way to have a smile you’ll be proud of without the discomfort and inconvenience that traditional braces may cause, so it’s worth considering if you are looking for an orthodontic solution for yourself or your loved one.
Invisalign is an excellent option for adults and teenagers who have moderate to severe orthodontic issues, but it’s a good idea to talk to your orthodontist about your specific needs. They can also help you find the best clear aligners for your specific situation.
