Clear Aligner Treatment and Its Applications
Today, we have many different options to improve our smiles. Alongside traditional wire braces, which are made of metal brackets, clear aligner treatment stands out as a more modern and inconspicuous option for those with aesthetic concerns.
Clear aligner treatment consists of comfortable and nearly invisible aligners that are used to align and correct teeth. In this article, we will discuss what clear aligner treatment is, the conditions it is used to treat, and the stages of treatment.
What is The Clear Aligner Treatment?
Clear aligner treatment is a method used to align and correct teeth using transparent and custom-designed aligners. These aligners are produced specifically for the individual’s oral structure and treatment plan. The aligners aim to gradually change the position of the teeth to achieve the desired alignment.
Clear aligner treatment is often chosen when traditional metal braces are not preferred. Clear aligners are particularly preferred when aesthetic concerns are prominent, especially in adult patients.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is one of the most popular brands of clear aligner treatment. Unlike traditional metal braces, treatment is performed using nearly invisible clear aligners. Invisalign works with specially designed aligners that are customized to fit the individual’s dental structure.
Clear Aligners – Invisalign: What Conditions Can They Treat?
Clear aligner treatment is an effective method used to treat the following dental issues:
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Mild to moderate teeth misalignment:
Clear aligners can correct misalignment by aligning the teeth.
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Gaps between teeth:
If there are gaps between teeth, clear aligners can be used to close these gaps.
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Minor bite problems:
Clear aligners can correct slight bite problems such as overlapping of the front teeth or the way teeth come into contact with each other.
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Occlusion problems:
Clear aligners can help address problems with the alignment of the upper and lower jaws.
Stages of Clear Aligner – Invisalign Treatment
Diagnosis and Evaluation
The first step for Invisalign treatment or clear aligner treatment is a diagnosis and evaluation process with an orthodontist or dentist. During this stage, the condition of your teeth and your goals will be evaluated. Your dentist will perform intraoral imaging, take X-rays, and carry out other necessary steps to determine if clear aligner – Invisalign treatment is suitable for you.
Treatment Planning
A treatment plan is created for clear aligner – Invisalign treatment. Your dentist will ensure that 3D digital images are taken to illustrate the intended alignment and correction of your teeth. These images will be sent to the Invisalign laboratory for the production of the clear aligners to be used throughout the treatment process. You will also be provided with information about the treatment duration and your expectations.
Production of Custom Clear Aligners
The Invisalign laboratory will produce custom-designed clear aligners according to the treatment plan determined by your dentist. Each aligner is designed to fit your teeth specifically and will be used to align your teeth during the treatment period. The aligners are typically ready within a few weeks.
Wearing the Aligners:
The clear aligners produced for Invisalign treatment will be delivered to you. Your dentist will explain how to use them and for how many hours they should be worn. Since the aligners are designed to fit snugly on your teeth, they can be comfortably worn and removed.
Regular Replacement of Aligners
In Invisalign treatment, the clear aligners are replaced at specific intervals. Typically, a new aligner is worn every 1-2 weeks. Each aligner is designed to gradually move your teeth to the targeted position. Regularly changing your aligners is important to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
Follow-up and Adjustments
During Invisalign treatment, your dentist will conduct regular check-ups. During these check-ups, the progress of your teeth is evaluated, and it is ensured that the treatment is progressing according to plan.
Clear aligner treatment may not be as effective as traditional bracket treatment in some cases. Therefore, it is important to consult a dentist to determine the most suitable treatment option for you. You should make the decision about the most suitable treatment with an expert dentist.