What are aligners?

In recent years, aligners have become an increasingly popular procedure in the service market. This is not surprising, because aligners are a new, innovative method of aligning teeth, which is an effective alternative to brace systems. Aligners are thin transparent plates that are worn on the teeth and gradually align the bite.

Indications for the use of aligners

A dentist can recommend the use of aligners in several situations:

•       Improper bite

•       Minor cosmetic corrections of teeth

•       Alignment after tooth loss or tooth enamel liquefaction

But, despite the effectiveness of this method, there are certain contraindications, in the presence of which braces cannot be installed. In particular, it is:

•       Serious abnormalities of the bite

•       Gum problems

•       Pathologies and serious dental diseases

•       Impossibility of observing the wearing regime

•       Tartar

Advantages and disadvantages of aligners

Like any procedure, the installation of aligners has both advantages that significantly distinguish them from braces and disadvantages that can affect your decision to use them.

Advantages of aligners

Among the main advantages of this treatment method:

•       Invisibility (ideal solution if you don't want to wear braces that will be visible on your teeth)

•       Ease of care (aligners can be removed while eating and brushing teeth, which simplifies hygiene support)

•       Comfort (the structure is made of smooth, soft plastic that does not interfere with wearing and does not cause irritation)

•       Programmable tooth movement (the computer program accurately programs all stages of bite alignment)

Cons of aligners

Most often, such disadvantages of aligners are highlighted as:

•       Not suitable for serious anomalies of the bite

•       They require responsibility and compliance with the wearing regime

•       Require longer treatment than braces

•       May be more expensive compared to braces

•       High level of hygiene is required

Duration of treatment with aligners

The duration of treatment with aligners depends on important factors, such as the complexity of the problem with the bite, the degree of correction, the patient's compliance with the instructions and the mode of wearing. On average, treatment with aligners can last from several months to two years. The orthodontist usually sets an individual schedule for each patient, taking into account his needs and the specifics of the case, and already during the first consultation, the doctor can give an accurate estimate of the duration of treatment, taking into account all aspects of the patient's situation.

Types of aligners

There are several types of aligners, each of which has its own characteristics and functions:

•       Lingual aligners: located on the inner side of the teeth (close to the gums), which makes them invisible to others.

•       Short-term aligners: used to treat minor or cosmetic bite problems, they can be made faster, but are not suitable for complex cases.

•       Multi-stage aligners: several sets of transparent plates are used, which are changed every few weeks for gradual tooth alignment.

Aligners also differ by country of manufacture:

•       Invisalign, USA production. It is recommended to change the mouthguard every 2 weeks. Aesthetic, comfortable to wear.

•       Clear Correct, USA creation. These aligners are recommended for patients with allergic reactions to synthetic materials. It is recommended to replace the mouthguard every 2-3 weeks.

•       Grand Ortho, Turkey

•       FlexiLigner, Italy.

•       Invisible All In, Italy.

Treatment with aligners

Like any dental procedure, the installation of aligners takes place in several stages and includes a dentist's consultation, diagnosis, selection and manufacture of a structure individually for the patient, adjustment and control of the course of treatment.

Specialist consultation

A consultation with a dentist about aligners is an important stage before starting treatment, during which the doctor determines whether aligners are suitable for your case and what type of aligners will be most effective.

Diagnostics of treatment with aligners

Diagnostics of treatment with aligners can include clinical examination, X-rays, taking impressions of the bite, digital scanning and analysis of all data to determine the optimal state of treatment.

Selection and manufacture of aligners

At this stage, the patient's needs are determined in accordance with the individual characteristics of his bite, a treatment plan is created, based on which aligners are individually manufactured.

Attachments

Attachments are small additional elements that are used with aligners to improve control over tooth movement and achieve a better bite when correcting irregularities. These devices are attached to the patient's teeth and serve as a support for elastic aligners, which give them a more accurate direction and improve the effectiveness of treatment. Attachments can have different shapes and sizes and are chosen by the dentist depending on the patient's specific situation and treatment needs.

Doctor's visit and control of treatment with aligners

A visit to the doctor and control of aligner treatment are an important part of the teeth correction process. During the visits, the doctor checks whether the expected changes are occurring and whether the teeth are moving correctly. He can correct the treatment plan if necessary or install new aligners that will continue to correct the position of the teeth in accordance with the treatment plan.

Removal of attachments and installation of retainers

After removing the attachments, the dentist usually uses retainers - special devices that are installed after treatment with aligners and help to keep the teeth in a new position, preventing their return to the previous uneven state.

Why install aligners?

Installing aligners has a number of advantages that make this method of teeth alignment comfortable to wear and aesthetic, and favorably distinguish it compared to braces. However, the decision to use aligners and not braces in each individual case should be made by the dentist, taking into account, of course, all the wishes of the patient.

Recommendations for wearing and caring for aligners

It is important to remember that wearing aligners will be effective only if several conditions are met:

•       Clean the aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and soap. Do not use hot water as it may cause deformation.

•       Follow the wearing schedule for best results.

•       Store aligners in special containers when you are not wearing them. This will help to avoid their loss or damage.

•       Periodically visit a doctor to check the condition of the aligners and correct any possible problems.

By following these tips, you will be able to ensure a long and effective service life of your aligners and achieve the desired effect of straightening your teeth.