Clear aligners have seen a huge surge in popularity in recent years, boasting an array of benefits compared to traditional metal braces. But what exactly are these benefits? And do they make clear aligners more effective than traditional fixed braces?
Here’s what you need to know.
The transparency of clear aligners naturally takes the top spot on this list. Clear aligners are virtually invisible to the naked eye, and it’s one of the reasons why their popularity has drastically increased in the past few years.
For teenagers, clear aligners such as those provided by ClearCorrect and Invisalign are a much more desirable option than traditional ‘train tracks’. Their risk of being bullied is considerably decreased, and they’ll be less likely to feel self-conscious about their mouth. All of this ensures a smoother passage through those tough adolescent years!
The discreetness of invisible aligners also makes them an attractive option for adults who want to fix just one or two crooked teeth. This way, they can reap the rewards of a straighter smile without having to have a full metal set installed in their mouths.
Studies show that clear aligners can straighten teeth up to 50% faster than traditional braces in non-complex cases.
Naturally, people want their orthodontic treatment to be as short as possible, and this gives clear aligners yet another edge over their traditional counterparts.
It’s worth noting, however, that clear aligners are more suitable for simple straightening of the front teeth. Traditional braces may be better at treating severe malocclusions, so you should always speak to an expert dentist or orthodontist before making your decision!
Getting food stuck in your braces. Bad breath from not being able to brush properly. Having to avoid crunchy snacks for fear of breaking your braces’ small parts.
These are all issues that those with clear aligners don’t have to worry about.
Because clear aligners are removable, wearers are given more freedom when it comes to food choices. It’s important to note though that clear aligners DO require wearers to brush after every snack, meal and drink, as part of their oral health routine. This is so the remaining food doesn’t get trapped in the plastic aligner. In short, it’s a little extra maintenance in exchange for a lot better hygiene.
Nothing can make you more self-conscious than bad breath, but for those with traditional braces, it’s unfortunately common. All those brackets, wires, glue and rubber bands can really get in the way of your toothbrush doing its job. To make matters worse, your braces act as the perfect traps for things like spinach, tough meat and plaque - things that can get smelly pretty quickly!
However, because clear aligners are removable, wearers are able to brush and floss their teeth just as well as before. In fact, even better oral hygiene is required when you wear clear aligners, and brushing is required after every meal, snack and drink. This means that those who wear clear aligners often end up with better oral health, as they are encouraged to establish a solid dental hygiene routine.
Many wearers of traditional braces feel pain or discomfort caused by friction and abrasion of the gums and mouth. The brackets and wires of the braces can get caught on the inside of the lips and mouth, leaving painful cuts that take time to heal.
Clear aligners , of course, don’t have metal brackets or wires and consist of a plastic tray that thoroughly wraps around the whole row of teeth. This makes them significantly more comfortable for wearers, being so thin, flexible and lightweight.
Traditional and lingual braces can also lead to patients experiencing a metallic taste that won’t go away. This is just another reason why clear aligners are considered more comfortable than their metal counterparts.
Traditional and lingual braces require frequent tightening up to encourage the teeth to move. This of course means frequent trips to the dentist! One of the best things about clear aligner treatment is that it can be completed from the comfort of your home provided you look after the trays. This is another reason why clear aligners often work faster than their traditional counterparts.
Unfortunately though, the ultra-thin makeup of clear aligners does come with a downside - they’re more likely to crack and snap. The good news is that getting a replacement tray or retainer is super simple!
All you need to do is contact your local dentist or orthodontist, who should still have your dental impression on file. They’ll be able to order you a replacement within just a few days, and you won’t have to worry about booking an appointment to have them installed!
Although clear aligners do offer a host of advantages, they aren’t the best option for everyone. We always recommend speaking with a registered dentist or orthodontist to find out if they’re right for you. Why not visiting SmileStories and search for your nearest dental expert?
