Your Edmonton Downtown Invisalign® Provider
There's science behind clear orthodontic aligners like Invisalign, and today our dentists in Edmonton will break down the science of clear aligners and explain how they work.
How do Invisalign clear aligners work?
Transparent clear aligners are custom-made and removable. They work to help resolve orthodontic issues by shifting teeth in tiny increments into prescribed positions, as specified in a custom treatment plan your dentist will develop.
Over the last decade or so, clear aligners have been a popular treatment for teens and adults who want to discreetly straighten their teeth, without wires and brackets that traditional metal braces would have.
You must be a suitable candidate for clear aligners
First, we must first determine if you are a candidate for clear aligners. During your consultation appointment, your dentist will complete an exam that includes taking digital X-rays, dental impression, a bite registration and photos of your teeth (to assess how your upper and lower teeth fit together).
Learning whether your issue can be successfully treated with clear aligners is key to this process.
Clear aligners effectively treat orthodontic issues
After your dentist examines your smile and takes impressions of your teeth, your aligners will be made to treat specific orthodontic issues. Dentists have used Invisalign to successfully treat patients with:
- Crooked teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Crossbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Overbite
- Gapped teeth
- Sleep apnea
Just like each patient’s teeth are unique to them, each individual case is different. Your specific treatment time and other factors in your treatment plan may vary depending on which teeth must be moved, and by how much. It can take longer to move some teeth than others due to their position in your mouth.
Depending on your needs and preferences, removable custom clear aligners can offer an aesthetic and comfortable alternative to fixed appliances such as braces when it comes to orthodontic treatment.
Clear aligners encourage excellent oral hygiene and oral health
With the brushing and flossing you’ll need to do to keep your teeth - and your aligners clean - during treatment, you’ll be diligently brushing away plaque and bacteria that can get stuck between your aligners and your teeth, leading to cavities, tooth decay and gum disease.
A large part of successful treatment with clear aligners is the commitment to excellent oral hygiene - and working with your dentist to follow the treatment plan and minimize the chance for plaque to take hold.
Patients spend less time in treatment with clear aligners
Another benefit of clear aligners is that you’ll spend less time in your dentist’s office - and more time enjoying your straighter smile.
Clear aligners shouldn’t require regular adjustments or tightening, and you should only need to visit your dentist every couple of months to check in on your progress and ensure your treatment is going to plan.
Limitations to Treatment with Clear Aligners
While there are many advantages to treatment with clear aligners, not all orthodontic issues can be treated with this option. Large overbites, severe rotations, some molar issues and other problems may require another orthodontic treatment option.
If your case cannot be treated with Invisalign, your dentist can help you find another option that will work for you, such as traditional metal braces.