Invisible braces, commonly referred to as clear aligners, are becoming an increasingly popular solution for straightening teeth and fixing other teeth alignment issues. Thanks to recent advancements in technology, invisible braces are a more inconspicuous alternative to traditional braces. Their nearly invisible appearance and removable nature are just some of the reasons more people are opting for clear aligners.
However, many people wonder, do invisible braces work? In general, clear aligners are just as effective for treating mild to moderate alignment issues as traditional braces.
Invisible Braces vs. Traditional Braces
Both invisible braces and traditional braces treat a variety of orthodontic problems. While dentists have used conventional metal braces for decades, clear aligners are quickly becoming a go-to treatment option due to their ability to treat many of the same issues effectively.
From an aesthetic perspective, invisible braces offer a nearly undetectable option for correcting teeth alignment issues. Because of their thin, translucent appearance, clear aligners can help patients achieve a straighter smile with minimal visibility. On the other hand, traditional braces offer some tooth-coloured choices that can help reduce their visibility but are a much more conspicuous alignment solution.
Another significant difference between clear aligners and braces is that the aligners are removable, while braces are permanently affixed unless removed by a professional. The removability of invisible braces provides more convenience because they can be taken out to eat, drink, brush, or floss. In some cases, they can even be removed for special occasions, such as school photos or headshots.
Who Do Invisible Braces Work For?
While clear aligners can treat myriad teeth alignment issues, when asking, “do invisible braces work?” the answer is that they tend to work best for teens or adults. This is because children’s teeth are continually developing and growing, and the custom, tight fits of clear aligners are best suited for more developed teeth.
In addition to being more well-suited for teens and adults, clear aligners are typically reserved for patients with milder or moderate teeth crowding or spacing issues. Clear aligners are unsuitable for orthodontic issues involving raising or lower teeth in the periodontal membrane or for rotating teeth more than 20°. Those with more severely severe over-or underbites will likely need treatment beyond what invisible braces can provide.
How Do Invisible Braces Work?
Invisible braces work by exerting gentle pressure on teeth to gradually move them along the jaw into the correct position. Clear aligner orthodontic systems use a series of trays that are switched out every two weeks, forcing your teeth to conform to the shape of the tray until they reach the desired location.
At Dapto Dentists, we are proud to offer the Invisalign teeth straightening system. To obtain your set of trays, you need to come into the dental practice for a custom fitting. During your appointment, we will examine and take digital images of your teeth and gums and put the data into an advanced software system that creates a virtual model of how your treatment will progress. This information is sent to an off-site lab where your trays are fabricated.
Depending on your alignment issues’ severity, your dentist will provide you with a customised treatment plan that outlines how long you’ll wear each set to achieve the desired corrective results. Typically, treatment will last anywhere from 10 to 24 months. If you’ve already had braces, and are using aligners for minor teeth straightening, you may need them for as little as two months.
Learn if Clear Aligners Are Right for You with Dapto Dentists
To determine if clear aligners are right for you, your first step is to meet with your dentist for an assessment. At Dapto Dentists, we offer Invisalign for patients who are looking for a more discreet orthodontic treatment.
Book online or call us now on (02) 4210 9058 to learn more about our orthodontic treatments and how we can help you achieve a straighter smile.
