Getting that dazzling smile should not be a challenge anymore. Since many years dentist have been aligning teeth with the help of metallic braces. These were bulky and uncomfortable. However, the results were good. This led to the invention of a more comfortable and discreet option in the form of Aligners. These clear plastic trays move the teeth in a desirable direction without excessive force and in a controlled fashion.
Aligners started out as a solution for simple corrections but now with new attachments they are able to tackle even moderate cases. The aligners are a patient friendly approach to treating any crooked smile. They come with multiple benefits and have proven to b very effective time and again.
Let’s know more about how these aligners are made and how they move teeth into place.
Steps to Receive Aligners:
-Visit the dentist of your choice and ask them to check your teeth. You can ask them if you are a good candidate for aligners. Based on their examination they will select if you can go for aligners or not. They may ask you to get a couple of X-rays done and may take a few photographs for assessment purposes and to record in their files.
-A digital scan is planned, or physical impressions are made and sent to a dental lab which fabricates aligners. Brands like Illusion Aligners make the aligner treatment plans with the help of expert orthodontist ensuring great results. The plan is sent in the form of a video for approval from the patient.
-Once the plan is approved the aligners are fabricated and given to the patient in the form of sets. Each set must be worn for 20-22 Hours per day and changed after 10-14 days varying from case to case.
-The dentist may call you for follow up appointments to check on the progress of your treatment.
-Once the treatment is complete a set of retainers are given to the patient in order to retain the alignment brought about by the aligners.
Do’s and Don’ts of Aligners:
Do’s and Don’ts of Dental Aligners
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Wear them consistently — Stick to the schedule your dentist gives you (usually 20–22 hours a day). | Don’t remove them too often — Taking them out frequently can delay your progress. |
| Clean your aligners daily — Rinse them with lukewarm water and brush them gently. | Don’t use hot water — It can warp the plastic and ruin the fit. |
| Brush and floss before wearing them — Keeps your mouth and aligners fresh. | Don’t eat or drink (except water) with them in — Food and colored drinks can stain or damage them. |
| Store them in their case when not wearing them — Avoids loss or damage. | Don’t leave them lying around — They can collect bacteria or accidentally get thrown away. |
| Check in with your dentist regularly — They’ll track your progress and adjust if needed. | Don’t skip appointments — You might miss important adjustments or issues. |
| Be patient and stick with it — The results are worth the effort. | Don’t rush the process — Skipping steps or switching too early can cause problems. |
Why are People Choosing Aligners?
-They are nearly invisible and do not cause any discomfort while talking or smiling in public
-You need not quit your favorite items when you are wearing aligners as they can be removed while eating food.
-It is easier to maintain good dental health as you can brush and floss your teeth normally with aligners.
-There are no age restrictions as well. Aligners can be worn by teenagers and adults alike.
-They cause mild pressure but are otherwise pain free and comfortable.
-They require very few dental clinic visits which saves time and energy.
-They are travel friendly and can be carried around in a safe box when not worn in the mouth.
-They may be expensive, but dentists offer payment plans which suit the patients’ financial conditions as well.
To Summarize:
Aligners are the modern replacement option for metallic braces. People are opting for aligners as they are discreet, comfortable, removable and come with no restrictions. One can enjoy life to the fullest while getting their teeth aligned. The aligners also require some care. They must be kept away from heat and cleaned thoroughly before placing back in the mouth. For all your other queries you must contact a dentist and find out if aligners are the best treatment option for your case or not.
Some companies like Illusion Aligners give multiple material options and variants like aligners only for your front teeth that prove to be a revolution.
Correct your smile with aligners that suit you the best and your teeth will thank you for it forever!
