If you are considering straightening your teeth, you might want to consider getting clear aligners instead of traditional braces. There are a variety of benefits to these transparent plastic corrective devices, but they can also be a more costly treatment than the metal wires, brackets, and rubber bands that have been the most common alternative. Will this added cost that comes with innovative technology in tooth alignment be worth it for you? The following are some facts to help you decide if clear aligners will also align clearly with your budget.
What Are Clear Aligners
In short, clear aligners are an inconspicuous, removable alternative to traditional braces. When you choose this treatment of custom-made, translucent plastic aligners, you will receive several months of trays in advance, and you will change them out at regular intervals, usually about every two weeks, to help move your teeth into their proper position. The entire series of aligners in your plan can take up to nine months or longer, depending on the amount of corrective alignment needed. If you are hesitant to wear traditional orthodontic hardware but still wish to straighten your teeth, clear aligners certainly can be the right solution for you.
What is Involved with Wearing Invisalign
The first stage in the process begins with a visit to your dentist, who will create a 3-D, digital image of your mouth, teeth, and jaw. They will then use this image to create a personalized, custom, digital plan for moving your teeth into their proper place.
Your dentist will then use this custom plan to fabricate a series of transparent, plastic aligners. These aligners are digitally designed to apply pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired locations.
Depending on your specific instructions, you will change out one set of aligners for a new set about every week or two. Usually, you must wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day to achieve the desired results.
The Disadvantages of Invisalign
- Less effective for complex issues- It has been stated that Invisalign is more effective if your teeth require only certain kinds of movement. Your dentist might suggest another treatment option for a more complex issue. If you have any bridgework on some of your teeth, Invisalign might not be the right treatment option for you.
- Requires strict compliance- To get the maximum benefit and results from Invisalign, you must wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. If you think you will be tempted to slip quite often, it just might not be the best choice for you.
- Removal when eating or drinking- When you are eating or drinking, you will need to take the aligners out. If you do not, food or drink will collect in them. This will cause bacteria to grow along your teeth or gumline, which can lead to gum disease and cavities.
- Food limitations- You might experience tooth soreness when the aligner is taken out, which could make you hesitate regarding some food choices.
