Are Clear Aligners the Right Treatment for Me?

Many patients are choosing clear aligners over braces as a way to achieve a more attractive smile through fixing misalignments of teeth and the jaw. There are numerous benefits to be enjoyed with clear aligners and times when they are the preferable form of treatment, and it is helpful to understand more about them to determine whether they are the best option for you.

An overview of clear aligners

Many choose clear aligners over braces as they allow the patient to straighten their smile in a discreet manner, but there are other benefits as well. The following is an overview of clear aligners treatment.

Clear aligner treatment defined

Clear aligners are transparent trays of plastic-like material that are worn over the patient’s teeth. They slowly pull teeth into better alignment. Unlike braces, clear aligners are removable, and the patient takes them out while brushing, eating and in other necessary instances. The patient, however, must wear the aligners at least 20 to 22 hours each day. The treatment process involves changing the aligners every several weeks as teeth shift into a better position.

The benefits of clear aligners

Clear aligners have gained popularity due in large part to the benefits they offer during the treatment process. These benefits include but are not limited to:

• Transparent treatment
• Fast treatment times
• Long-lasting results
• Removable trays
• Easy care and cleaning

The treatment, which typically takes about a year, is often faster than braces, and the results last for decades with proper aftercare. Since the trays are removable, it is easy to keep teeth clean and stain-free.

When to consider clear aligners

The type of issue and the severity of the issue play a role in determining if clear aligners are appropriate. Clear aligners fix a range of issues related to teeth and jaw alignment, including crooked or crowded teeth, gaps between teeth and bite complications.

If teeth are crooked or appear crooked due to overcrowding, then clear aligners may be an option if the issue is mild to moderate, whereas braces are sometimes best for severe misalignments. In addition to crowded teeth, clear aligners can fix spacing issues such as natural gaps between teeth. Those who struggle with bite complications such as overbite, underbite or crossbite may benefit from clear aligners as well.

Care tips for clear aligners

There are certain care tips that are important to follow during treatment to ensure quality results and good oral health throughout treatment. One of the most important tips is to keep the aligners clean at all times by washing them as instructed by the dental professional and storing them properly when they are not being worn. It is also important to practice a good oral hygiene routine, which should include brushing several times a day, flossing daily and using mouthwash as directed. After treatment, patients should wear their retainers as instructed to avoid teeth shifting.

Achieve a better smile with clear aligners

If you want to learn more about clear aligners and to talk to a dental professional about how they help many achieve a better smile in as little as a year, then get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation visit.

Request an appointment here: or call Gilroy Dental Associates at (408) 842-2818 for an appointment in our Gilroy office.

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