Clear Aligners

Woman putting in a pair of Invisalign braces, or clear aligners.

What are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners (or clear braces), such as Invisalign®, are an alternative treatment to traditional braces to straighten your teeth. Instead of using wires and metal brackets, these aligners use a series of clear trays custom designed to gradually move your teeth. They can be used to treat most orthodontic issues that are normally treated by braces. However, they are not a perfect replacement for traditional braces.

What are some benefits?

Clear aligners are a great option for anyone who needs minor corrections to their teeth alignment. They are more comfortable and more convenient than traditional braces. You can remove your aligners so you can eat, brush and floss. Additionally, you only need to wear them for 12 months. There are social benefits to them as well. They aren’t nearly as noticeable as regular braces, making you feel more confident about your smile while correcting your teeth. Additionally, you don’t need to visit your dentist nearly as much, about once every two months. So long as you follow the recommended schedule, you will know exactly when you are done with the aligners.

Are there any drawbacks?

Clear aligners can’t fix every problem, especially teeth that rest higher or lower in your mouth. They also need to remain in your mouth for 22 hours a day, taking them out only for eating and brushing. Speaking of which, you need to brush and floss your teeth more often, after every time you eat, as any food particles that stay on your teeth don’t have any saliva to wash itself off, causing cavities. The final nail in the coffin is responsibility, as you will need to switch the aligners every two weeks and, as mentioned previously, will need to keep them in for 22 hours a day.