If you have an underbite, overbite, or crossbite, you may want to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist. Contrary to popular belief, it is never late to achieve a straighter smile. As an adult, you may have evident concerns about traditional braces, which are anything but aesthetic. Thankfully, there’s the option of clear aligners, which offer a more optimal way of straightening your smile. Are clear aligners better? What are the disadvantages? Here is an overview for your help.
Understanding clear aligners
True to the name, clear aligners are made of clear plastic material. You get a set of removable trays, which are replaced every two to three weeks. Unlike metal braces that often require adjustments that can be painful, clear aligners are much easier to use. There are many options for your treatment, such as Invisalign, SmileWhite, and ClearCorrect, and your orthodontist will determine the best one for your needs.
The pros
First and foremost, clear aligners are removable, which means you don’t have to struggle while eating your food or brushing your teeth. You can choose to remove the trays when necessary. Secondly, the treatment allows you to continue with your professional commitments as the aligners are almost invisible. If you have mild to moderate orthodontic issues, this is always a better choice. The treatment also delivers fast results, and most patients get the desired outcome in less than 18 months. Also, clear aligners don’t hurt or poke like braces, and you don’t need to see your dentist as often.
The cons
If you are choosing clear aligners, as your orthodontist suggested, you must commit to the treatment. You must wear the trays for at least 20 to 22 hours each day, and if you fail to do that, you may not achieve the straighter smile you expect. Patients who have extreme orthodontic concerns still may need braces or metalwork, and therefore, this is not a one-solution-for-all option.
To sum up
There is no denying that clear aligners are a better alternative to braces for many patients. Whether you are an ideal candidate for the treatment depends on several factors. Check with your dentist for more details and ask about the costs, as insurance may not pay for the entire treatment. Understand how you can get the most out of your trays, and always visit your dentist as recommended to replace the existing clear aligners with new ones.
