Innovative orthodontic treatment methods for adults
Today, orthodontics is one of the most rapidly developing dental sciences. State-of-the-art orthodontic treatment methods such as Invisalign and Clear Aligners permit to effectively correct malocclusion in adult patients without the need to wear traditional permanent braces. Read on to find out how aligner treatment works and who is it for.
A state-of-the-art system of straightening teeth with the use of transparent teeth aligners made of thermo-retractable material is currently one of the most innovative and comfortable orthodontic treatments. The invisible aligners are made based on a digital screening of the patient’s teeth.
Invisalign aligners and Clear Aligners are aimed at the gradual, controlled shifting of teeth into the right place. The method allows the orthodontist to control both the scope of the treatment and the time required for the teeth are to move their position. The treatment plan is very detailed and carefully scheduled, which means that the treatment will target the problem areas precisely as needed. Patients are advised to wear the aligners for approx. 20 to 22 hours a day.
Why is aligner treatment a great option?
The greatest merit of aligner treatment is discretion. The aligners are made of transparent material that is hardly visible in the mouth. Other advantages include comfort of use – the aligners do not irritate the gums and do not cause infections in the oral cavity, which may be the case with the traditional braces mounted on the teeth with the use of brackets and wires.
The greatest merit of aligner treatment is discretion. The aligners are made of transparent material that is hardly visible in the mouth. Other advantages include comfort of use – the aligners do not irritate the gums and do not cause infections in the oral cavity, which may be the case with the traditional braces mounted on the teeth with the use of brackets and wires.
The greatest merit of aligner treatment is discretion. The aligners are made of transparent material that is hardly visible in the mouth. Other advantages include comfort of use – the aligners do not irritate the gums and do not cause infections in the oral cavity, which may be the case with the traditional braces mounted on the teeth with the use of brackets and wires.
Is orthodontic aligner treatment for everyone?
Over 90% of patients qualify for aligner treatment. The Invisalign method allows to reduce practically all bite problems, even complex one such as under-bite, open bite, cross-bite, and deep-bite. Aligners are the perfect option for patients who are after aesthetic, discreet and comfortable orthodontic treatment. The method is recommended for adults and teens.
Differences between Invisalign and Clear Aligners
Clear Aligner treatment consists of wearing 3 aligners of varying thickness throughout the treatment. Patients who opt for Invisalign braces must wear a specific number of aligners as per the given patients’ needs (usually 7 to 8 aligners).
Invisalign aligners are used to treat a wider spectrum of patients, as they precisely correct even very complex bite problems. They are also much more expensive than Clear Aligners.
ALIGNER TREATMENT EXPLAINED STEP BY STEP
1. Consultation
During the first appointment, the orthodontist will carefully exam your bite and dentition and explain the specifics of orthodontic aligner treatment.
2. Diagnostics
To develop a comprehensive treatment plan you must undergo a number of diagnostic procedures including an X-ray (CT scan, panoramic and cephalometric images), have impressions and moulds made and a 3D scan done presenting a simulation of the treatment effects.
3. Treatment plan
Based on the information you provide and the results of the diagnostic exams the orthodontist will recommend a selected treatment method, specify the time needed to complete the treatment, explain the treatment stages and the expected effects, and tell you the cost of treatment. This is the time to ask any questions or concerns you may have. It is also essential for you to undergo oral cavity sanation and dental hygiene procedures before the start of the orthodontic treatment.
4. Aligner correction
You are given a set of aligners, based on impressions and moulds of your teeth and bite. You will wear one aligner for 1 to 2 weeks and then will switch to the next one without having to visit the orthodontist in between.
5. Check-up appointments
In the Clear Aligner method check-up appointment are held roughly every 3 weeks. At every appointment, the orthodontist will take new impressions of your bite and will make you a new set of aligners. Patients who opt for the Invisalign method must check in with their orthodontist every 2 to 3 months during the treatment.
6. Retention
After the aligner treatment is completed patients are expected to wear retention aligners for the next few years to preserve the treatment effects.