We have all seen teenagers moving around with a mouthful of metal, and expectedly, that rarely looks aesthetic. As an adult who wants a straighter smile, you may have concerns about getting traditional braces. It’s a common myth that orthodontic care is for children and young adults. In fact, it is never late to see an orthodontist. If metal braces scare you, there is the option of clear aligners, which can help you get desired results. Here’s what you must know.
An overview of clear aligners
As the name suggests, clear aligners are made of plastic material that helps align teeth. Unlike metal braces that need adjustments, clear trays are replaced every two weeks, which doesn’t cause discomfort or pain. Also, the aligners are removable, which means you can brush and eat without a pause. There are many brand names for the treatment, including Invisalign, and your orthodontist will help you make a decision.
Why consider clear aligners?
Firstly, you can remove the aligners, which makes it a convenient choice for many patients. The trays are almost invisible, which means you don’t have to worry about aesthetic concerns. The treatment is effective for mild to moderate orthodontic issues, and you can expect to see evident results in months. Most patients get rid of the last set of trays within 18 months. The procedure doesn’t include metalwork, which can feel pokey.
Other things to know
If you are going for clear aligners, ensure you are committed to the treatment. You will have to wear the trays for at least 20 hours a day, or as suggested by your dentist. Note that if you choose to remove the aligners every now and then, you may not see the results as soon as expected. Also, clear aligners are not for everyone. If you have an extreme overbite or other concerns related to alignment, you may still need metal braces, at least for some time. Regular visits to the orthodontic clinic is still necessary, although the frequency and number of appointments would be considerably lower.
Meet your orthodontist
Ensure that you talk to your orthodontist in detail about clear aligners and understand the various aspects of the treatment. Your dental insurance plan may not cover the costs, and therefore, having a flexible payment plan may help. Schedule an appointment and get a complete oral exam to make a decision. Your dentist or orthodontist will also give you a detailed overview of the treatment outline.
