Straight and well-aligned teeth not only impact your appearance but are also essential for maintaining your oral health. Having straight teeth makes it easier for people to brush and floss properly, preventing gum disease, tooth decay, cavities and permanent tooth loss.
However, not everyone is not born with a set of pearly white straight teeth. At times, people often choose various teeth straightening treatments, including metal braces and Invisalign treatment. In the case of metal braces, metal brackets and wires are used to move the position of teeth, whereas Invisalign treatment involves the usage of custom clear aligners to move the teeth into the right position.
Some people feel embarrassed while wearing metal braces and tend to opt for Invisalign treatment. So, how do clear aligners make your teeth straight? In this guide, we will discuss how Invisalign works.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
If you are planning to straighten your teeth with the help of Invisalign, you need to wear a set of aligners that will put gentle pressure on your teeth to move them to the right position. However, there is nothing like one size fits all when it comes to aligners. You have to visit your orthodontist in Edmonton, who will scan your teeth to customize your clear aligners as per the shape and alignment of your teeth.
Your orthodontist will recommend you to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day for 12-18 months, depending on the severity of your dental problem. Each aligner usually lasts a week or two and moves the teeth a couple of millimeters. So, you will need to replace your aligners after 1 to 3 weeks.
You may have to use a few attachments. These attachments are nothing but small bumps of clear plastic. They provide a gripping point for your aligner to keep them in place easily. They also put pressure on your teeth to help the aligners move the teeth. Some patients need to wear rubber bands with their aligners in case the position of their teeth is severely misaligned. These bands put extra pressure on your teeth to correct your bite.
Since tooth movement is small in the case of aligners, Invisalign treatment tends to be gentle and comfortable. Also, remember that when you eat your meal, you have to remove your aligners and wear them again after brushing and flossing your teeth properly.
What Happens After The Final Trays?
Once your teeth are in the right position and you are done wearing the final tray, you are recommended to wear a retainer to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position. You may have to wear a retainer for 6 weeks for the whole day.
Your Invisalign treatment can correct several dental problems, including crowded teeth, gapped teeth, underbites, and overbites. Clear aligners don’t interfere with your lifestyle. You don’t need to miss out on your favourite foods.
Are Clear Aligners Worth It?
Invisalign treatment is completely worth it, especially if you wear your clear aligners as directed by Edmonton's adult orthodontist. However, if you want to know whether clear aligners are right for you or not, your dentist can make the suggestion. So, it is wise to schedule a consultation with an orthodontic to discuss your case. Your orthodontist can help you decide whether you should go for this treatment or not. If you have any questions regarding clear aligners or Invisalign treatment, feel free to contact us!