The Science Behind Orthodontic Treatment with Clear Aligners

If you are considering clear aligners treatment, you are probably curious how methods such as Invisalign work. Today, our Cornwall dentists talk about the science behind clear aligners and how they work to give you a straighter, healthier smile.

How Clear Aligners Work

Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, transparent, and removable clear aligner trays that aim to help correct orthodontic problems. They work to achieve this by moving teeth in tiny increments into prescribed positions, as specified in a custom treatment plan developed by your dentist.

Over the last decade, they’ve been a popular treatment for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth discreetly, without the wires and brackets that come with traditional metal braces.

You Have To Be a Fitted Candidate For Clear Aligners

The first step of the process is to find out whether you are a candidate for clear aligners. At your consultation appointment, your dentist will complete an exam, which consists of taking digital X-rays, photos of your teeth, dental impressions, and a bite registration (to find out how your upper and lower teeth fit together).

This process is key to finding out whether your issue can successfully be treated with clear aligners.

Clear Aligners Can Treat Orthodontic Problems Efficiently

Once your dentist has examined your smile and taken impressions of your teeth, your aligners will be made to treat specific orthodontic issues. Dentists have used Invisalign clear aligners to successfully treat patients with:

Gapped teeth
Crossbite
Overbite
Crooked teeth
Open bite
Underbite
Sleep apnea
Teeth grinding

Because every patient has unique teeth, each individual case is different. Your specific treatment time and other factors in your treatment plan may vary depending on which teeth must be moved, and by how much. It can take longer to move some teeth than others due to their position in your mouth.

Depending on your needs and preferences, removable custom clear aligners can offer an aesthetic and comfortable alternative to fixed appliances such as braces when it comes to orthodontic treatment.

Clear Aligners Motivate Proper Oral Hygiene & Health

With the brushing and flossing you’ll need to do to keep your teeth - and your aligners clean - during treatment, you’ll be diligently brushing away plaque and bacteria that can get stuck between your aligners and your teeth, leading to cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.

A large part of successful treatment with clear aligners is the commitment to excellent oral hygiene - and working with your dentist to follow the treatment plan and minimize the chance for plaque to take hold.

Shorter Treatment Time for Patients with Clear Aligners

Another benefit of clear aligners is that you’ll spend less time in your dentist’s office - and more time enjoying your straighter smile.

Clear aligners don't usually need to be tightened or adjusted, which means you should only have to see your dentist every couple of months to check in on your progress and ensure your treatment is going to plan.

The Limitations of Clear Aligners Treatment

While there are many advantages to treatment with clear aligners, not all orthodontic issues can be treated with this option. Large overbites, severe rotations, some molar issues, and other problems may require another orthodontic treatment option.

If your case cannot be treated with Invisalign, your dentist can help you find another option that will work for you, such as traditional metal braces.