What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are transparent, custom-made trays designed to fit snugly over your teeth. They gradually shift your teeth into the desired position by applying gentle, consistent pressure. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for those seeking a more aesthetic orthodontic treatment.

How Do Clear Aligners Work?

Clear aligners are made using advanced 3D imaging technology to create a precise map of your teeth. This digital model helps in designing a series of aligner trays that will guide your teeth into proper alignment. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

1. Initial Consultation: Your orthodontist will evaluate your teeth and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for clear aligners.
2. Digital Impressions: Using 3D imaging, your orthodontist will create a digital model of your teeth.
3. Treatment Plan: A customized treatment plan is developed, showing the movement of your teeth and the final expected result.
4. Aligner Fabrication: Based on the treatment plan, a series of aligners are fabricated.
5. Wearing Aligners: You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 20-22 hours a day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
6. Progress Checkups: Regular visits to your orthodontist will ensure your treatment is on track.
7. Completion: Once you’ve worn all aligners in the series, your teeth should be in their desired position. Retainers may be needed to maintain your new smile.

Benefits of Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer numerous advantages over traditional braces, including:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Clear aligners are virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without noticeable metal brackets and wires.
2. Comfort: Made from smooth plastic, aligners are more comfortable and less likely to irritate your gums and cheeks.
3. Convenience: Aligners are removable, making it easy to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
4. Hygiene: Better oral hygiene is possible since you can remove the aligners to clean your teeth properly.
5. Fewer Office Visits: With clear aligners, you typically need fewer checkups compared to traditional braces.
6. Predictable Results: Advanced technology allows for precise treatment planning, giving you a clear idea of the expected outcome.

Who Can Benefit from Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are suitable for treating a variety of dental issues, including:

• Crowded Teeth: Aligners can help align teeth that are too close together.
• Gapped Teeth: They can close spaces between teeth.
• Overbite: Aligners can correct an overbite, where the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively.
• Underbite: They can fix an underbite, where the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth.
• Crossbite: Aligners can treat crossbite, where some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth.
• Open Bite: They can correct an open bite, where there’s a gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.

However, clear aligners might not be suitable for severe orthodontic cases. A consultation with an orthodontist is essential to determine the best treatment for your specific needs.

The Clear Aligner Brands

Several brands offer clear aligner treatment, each with unique features. The most popular brands include:

• Invisalign: The most well-known brand, Invisalign offers a wide range of treatment options and uses SmartTrack material for better comfort and fit.
• SmileDirectClub: Known for its at-home treatment model, SmileDirectClub provides clear aligners without frequent office visits.
• ClearCorrect: Similar to Invisalign, ClearCorrect offers customizable aligners and is known for affordability.
• Candid: Focuses on a hybrid model of in-office and remote treatment, providing professional guidance throughout the process.