Invisible braces or clear aligners have been popular options in modern orthodontic treatments. With the growing demand for discreet teeth straightening treatment in teenagers or working professionals, these invisible solutions for dental appearance are being preferred over traditional metal braces. These are removable and almost invisible, changing the way people get a perfect smile without compromising on results.
What Are Invisible Braces or Clear Aligners?
Invisible braces or clear aligners are custom-made, removable and invisible plastic trays to fit over teeth used in modern orthodontic procedures. These help straighten teeth and adjust tooth alignment by shifting them into the right position over time. They are comfortable, easy to use, allowing one to eat normally and maintain oral hygiene. Some of the popular brands include Invisalign, ClearCorrect and others.
Who should consider invisible aligners?
Invisible or clear aligners can solve a wide range of dental concerns. The following things need to be considered to know who is a good candidate for invisible aligners:
- People with mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as fixing gaps, crowded teeth, and simple biting problems
- Adults and teenagers with permanent teeth erupted improperly
- People with high compliance to wear and remove aligners consistently when eating, drinking or cleaning
- Those who are free from active gum diseases and bacteria in their mouth
Dental Problems Treated with Invisible Aligners
Invisible or clear aligners treat several dental problems, such as:
- Crowded Teeth: No sufficient space in the jaw for teeth to fit normally
- Gap Between Teeth: Too much space between some teeth
- Overbite: When the upper front teeth overlap too far over the lower front teeth
- Underbite: The lower front teeth sit in front of the upper teeth
- Crossbite: Upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, especially at the sides of the mouth
- Open Bite: When the upper and lower teeth don’t align when the mouth is closed
- Misaligned Teeth: The teeth erupted abnormally
Benefits of Invisible Braces or Aligners
When compared to traditional braces, the benefits of invisible braces or aligners are many, such as:
- Nearly invisible, enhancing confidence
- Easy to wear and remove when eating, drinking, brushing or flossing
- No restriction on food, such as hard or sticky foods
- Customised plastic enhances the comfort and reduces gum irritations
- Reduced clinic visits for adjustments compared to braces
- Safe & versatile for both adults & teenagers
Invisible Aligners vs Traditional Braces
Invisible Aligners | Traditional Braces | |
Visibility | Invisible, one can barely notice | Highly noticeable |
Removability | Easily removable when eating, brushing, and flossing | Non-removable |
Food Restriction | No restriction | Restriction on certain foods, such as hard or sticky foods |
Comfort | More comfortable | Less comfortable |
Duration | Less time than braces | Longer than aligners |
Oral Hygiene | Since removable, it is easy to maintain | Difficult to maintain oral care |
Invisible Aligners Treatment Procedure
Invisible aligners are placed by the dentist and the process includes
- Dentist performs 3D scan of your teeth to plan the movement
- A series of aligners are custom-made suitable for your teeth
- Tooth coloured attachments may be bonded to teeth during first set of aligners are fit
- These aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day daily for effective results
- After 1-2 weeks dentist will change the aligners and schedule dental check-ups
How Long Does Invisible Aligners Treatment Take?
The timeline of invisible aligners depends on the complexity or severity of the dental condition. While mild cases may take 6-9 months, moderate to severe cases can exceed 18 months to show desired results. Retainers are required to maintain results. But aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours daily and changed in every 1-2 weeks.
Care and Maintenance of Aligners
Below are the tips for maintenance of aligners:
- Rinse aligners every time you remove them
- Brush gently twice daily
- Soak aligners in cleaning solution
- Remove them before eating or chewing
- Safely store them in case while not wearing
- Avoid harsh cleaners
- Check aligners regularly for any damage
- Practice strict cleaning routine
- Follow-up with dentist
Why Choose Our Clinic for Invisible Aligners ?
At Yuvaan Dentofacial, our professionals ensure a safe and careful placement of invisible aligners by focusing on the following things:
- Expertise in modern orthodontic treatment
- Customised and smooth aligners based on individual’s need
- Advanced technology ensuring precise results
- Hygiene and safe procedure
- Comprehensive care throughout
Frequently Asked Questions
What are invisible aligners?
Invisible aligners clear, transparent and removable custom-made plastic trays fit on the teeth to straighten teeth gradually without using metal braces.
Is it okay to have coffee or tea with aligners on?
It is recommended to remove the aligners before eating and drinking coloured beverages to prevent them from staining.
Do invisible aligners hurt?
You may feel slight pressure or discomfort while switching to a new set but it is mild and temporary.
How long do I need to wear the aligners?
You must be worn for 20-22 hours a day and remove only when eating, brushing and flossing.
Do I need to wear a retainer afterward?
Yes, retainers are required to maintain the new alignment after the aligners are removed.
