Clear aligners are popular dental appliances for straightening teeth. Aligners can correct mild to moderate orthodontic cases. They are transparent, flexible, and durable. Clear aligners are custom-made, which makes them comfortable and fit over the teeth properly. They are designed for appropriate movement to straighten the teeth.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a modern orthodontic treatment that provides straight teeth and solves bite issues. The process requires a series of trays for the correction of the teeth. The aligners are transparent, durable and flexible in nature. They can be removed while eating and cleaning the teeth, making them less prone to stains and can maintain the oral health of the mouth.
How do clear aligners work?
In this process, the dentist first performs an examination and takes a digital scan or impression of the teeth. The impression is used to generate 3D models of teeth. With the help of these models, the aligners are customized to fit the teeth and move them to the desired position.
Once the treatment plan is done, a set of aligners is provided to the patients. These aligners provide pressure for the movement of the teeth to their required position. For the desired result, the patient has to wear the aligners for one to two weeks before going to the next set, as directed by the dentist. The aligners only have to be removed during the meal and while cleaning the teeth.
Can clear aligners fix overbite?
An overbite is when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth more than they should. Overbite can be corrected with the aligners, but it might not be possible in a few complex cases. For mild to moderate overbite correction, trays are provided for one to two weeks before starting the next set. The orthodontist sets the duration and number of trays to be used for the treatment after the examination. This gives the path of the treatment plan for the desired outcome.
Benefits of aligners
Clear aligners offer many benefits over traditional braces. As they are nearly invisible, they provide the best option for patients who prefer an aesthetic appearance. Clear aligners are smooth plastic, and the design makes them comfortable for gums and teeth. Aligners can be removed, making it easy to maintain the oral health of the patients with no diet restriction. The 3D model is made through a digital impression and visually previews the expected result. Aligners generally require fewer clinic visits, which makes it convenient for the patients.
How long do clear aligners take to work?
As suggested by the dentist, after the examination, the treatment plan is provided. The number of sets of aligners to be used for the desired outcome is based on the complexity of the case. Each set must be worn for one to two weeks before moving to the next set of aligners. The aligners must be worn for 20 to 22hrs in a day but can be removed while eating and cleaning the teeth. Achieving the desired outcome of straightening the teeth may take between 6 and 18 months (about 1 and a half years).
How to clean clear aligners?
Cleaning clear aligners is important to maintain good oral health. To clean the aligners, you can use a soft bristle brush to remove any particles from the surface. Also, avoid using hot water, as the aligner might change its shape. When the aligners are not in use, store them in the box to avoid any contamination. It is important to regularly clean the aligners to avoid any buildup or bad smell.
How much does clear aligner cost
The average cost of clear aligners ranges from $3,000 to $8,000. However, the price also depends on a few factors, such as the duration of the treatment, the clinic’s location, the dentist’s experience, and the specific brand used.
Here is the price list for the clear aligners for major cities in Australia.
The cost may vary based on the case’s complexity, location and the additional services provided, if any.
Clear aligners cost of Gold Coast: AUD $3,500 – $7,000
Clear aligners cost of Melbourne: AUD $4,000 – $8,000
Clear aligners cost of Perth: AUD $3,500 – $7,500
Clear aligners cost of Sydney: AUD $4,000 – $8,500
Clear aligners cost of Brisbane: AUD $3,500 – $7,500
Clear aligners cost of Adelaide: AUD $3,500 – $7,000
Conclusion
Clear aligners show how much orthodontic treatment has advanced in straightening the teeth, as they are nearly invisible, making them the best choice for patients who are concerned about aesthetics. The custom-made aligners move the teeth to the desired position, and the 3D model helps the patients predict the results.
The main advantages of clear aligners are comfort and convenience. The aligners are removable, making them convenient for cleaning and maintaining oral health, and due to the design, they minimize irritation to the gums and cheeks, unlike metal braces. However, the success of using aligners closely depends on the patient’s adherence to wearing them as prescribed.
As in a few severe cases, aligners are not the preferred treatment choice, so they may need traditional metal braces.