Clear Aligners for Teeth Straightening

Teeth Straightening With Clear Aligners

Traditional metal braces work through a series of brackets connected by wires that gradually force the teeth to move into their desired positions. Clear aligners also apply small amounts of force to encourage teeth to move, but without the brackets and wires. Clear aligners, made of a strong plastic material, are custom-made to fit each client’s teeth. You slip the aligners on over your teeth, and the tight fit encourages them to move. Aligners are removed when you eat or brush your teeth. You will change your aligners periodically as the teeth gradually shift into place. Each new set of aligners will look more closely like the final picture of your perfect smile.

A More Convenient Way than Braces to Align Teeth

More and more teens and adults are opting for clear aligners for teeth straightening. There are quite a few reasons why you might choose aligners over traditional braces.

Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are removable. In fact, clients who wear aligners remove them to eat, drink and brush their teeth. Because they’re removable, aligners don’t place any restrictions on what you can or cannot eat. You can enjoy popcorn, gum, and whatever else you’d like, as long as you take your aligners out first! This also makes oral hygiene easier, since you have good access to your teeth once the aligners are out.

Aligners are also popular because they’re virtually invisible. Many adults would prefer not to wear conspicuous braces to work and to social outings, and this makes clear aligners like Invisalign perfect for them. Clear aligners mean you can straighten your teeth without feeling self-conscious about your smile. Teeth straightening is also often faster with clear aligners than it is with braces. Call us to talk to Dr. Century or Dr. Singla about what your treatment timeline could look like.

Caring for Your Aligners During Teeth Straightening

While aligning your teeth with Invisalign or other clear aligners, it’s important to treat them well so they perform the way they should and you’re left with the smile you’re expecting. It’s imperative that you remove your aligners before eating or drinking, and brush your teeth before putting them back in. Any food or liquid left in your mouth when you put your aligners back in will be trapped inside your mouth and could lead to cavities or other dental issues. You should also clean your aligners often using the method recommended by your dentist.

Because aligners are removable, you might be tempted to keep them off for long periods of time. However, keep in mind that they can only align your teeth if they are in your mouth. It may require some amount of discipline on your part to wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time.

SureSmile® Clear Aligners at Lakeside Dental

At Lakeside Dental, we take pride in using the latest technologies available to provide cost-effective, comfortable, and efficient orthodontic treatment to clients in North Barrington. Our trained dental staff work with Dr. Century and Dr. Singla to help our clients get the smile they’ve been dreaming of through top-of-the-line orthodontic treatments like clear aligners.