Clear removable aligners are perhaps the highest profile orthodontic treatment option currently available on the market. They are gaining popularity as an effective yet discreet method to straighten teeth, and to help adults and teenagers achieve a perfectly aligned smile.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic device, similar in function to braces. They are made of a clear, flexible thermoplastic material, and are similar in appearance to a sports mouthguard.
Clear aligners treat a range of orthodontic issues:
- Overcrowded teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Teeth alignment issues
- Cross-bites, overbites and underbites
- Protrusions
- Widely-spaced teeth
- Irregularly-spaced teeth
(Please note that clear aligners may only be suitable for mild to moderate cases of the orthodontic issues listed above. For severe cases, additional orthodontic techniques may be required in cases that involve complex tooth movements and extractions.)
How do clear aligners work?
When you wear clear aligners, they exert a constant, controlled pressure on your teeth, causing them to shift gradually.
Clear aligners usually come in a series of 18 to 36 trays. These are changed every fortnight, with each new set of aligners designed to shift your teeth that little bit further towards the intended position. At the end of your treatment period – typically between 9 to 18 months – your teeth will have reached their final destination!
Benefits of clear aligners
There are a number of benefits when using clear aligners:
- Almost invisible- making them ideal for socialising and work commitments.
- Removable – makes eating and oral care much easier than wearing fixed traditional braces.
- More comfortable – you can freely conduct your normal day-to-day activities.
Mid-treatment checkups
To make certain that your aligner treatment is safe, effective and successful, it is important that your dentist or orthodontist supervise your treatment from start to finish. Minor dental issues may develop which could involve adjusting your treatment plan to ensure the best possible results.
Contact us
If you would like to find out more about clear aligners and how we can help you achieve a confident smile, call our friendly reception team at Healthy Smile Dental on 3219 9806 (Underwood) or 3273 3220 (Calamvale).
