Are your crooked teeth, bite issues, or dental gaps taking a toll on your confidence? It’s time to kick-start your journey towards a brighter, picture-perfect smile! Fortunately, advancements in orthodontics have made remedying these misalignment issues easier with invisible teeth aligners.
But with countless clear aligner options on the market, you’ll need help choosing the most suitable one for your condition. Here are factors you should consider and discuss with your treating doctor.
1. Comfort
Comfort level is a crucial factor contributing to the growing popularity of invisible alignment trays. Unlike traditional wired braces that can cause pain, removable orthodontic appliances offer a more pleasant experience.
There may be some initial sensation of tightness as you adjust to your treatment, but aligners shouldn’t hinder your daily tasks. You should be able to eat, drink, and sleep as normal! So, during the consultation with your treating doctor, don’t hesitate to inspect available sample models. Get a feel of the material, its texture, and its pliability.
2. Cost
Value for money is another factor to consider when selecting clear aligners. Take the time to compare brands and weigh their cost and proven benefits. Be wary about affordable options since they may not be as effective as they promise. Top-tier appliances typically fetch a higher price because of the technology they use and their commitment to accompany you throughout your alignment journey.
3. Material
Quality aligner brands boast proprietary qualities that set them apart. Each uses unique materials to ensure teeth movement in the most effective, comfortable, and aesthetic way possible. Make sure you have complete knowledge of these before deciding.
For example, ClearCorrect aligners feature a flat trimline and a revolutionary tri-layer ClearQuartz material. It has an elastomeric core that offers greater control and applies consistent gentle force on teeth. Additionally, its outer coatings ensure stain resistance and the ability to maintain its shape longer than competitors.
4. Appearance
One of the reasons many people choose aligners over traditional metal braces is their discreetness. That means no metal wires and brackets that cause a wearer’s self-esteem to dip. And less awkwardness when socialising, facing clients, and presenting work reports – even while in treatment!
But just how “invisible” or “clear” are these orthodontic appliances? It also depends on the material each aligner brand uses. Check manufacturing details, read reviews, and be wary of options whose appearance changes while in use! You don’t want an aligner that easily stains or becomes cloudy and discoloured.
5. Compliance
When worn correctly, invisible braces can straighten teeth in a matter of months. However, its efficacy still depends on patient compliance. Consider how many hours a day you need to wear the appliance to achieve the intended results. Are you comfortable with this?
For ClearCorrect, patients should keep their aligners on for at least 22 hours daily. Otherwise, you can expect delays in the treatment progress.
6. Efficiency
Aligner therapy involves meticulous planning and multiple consultations with your treating doctor – though less frequent than if you choose braces. As such, it will help if your doctor has the technology to make the process more efficient.
For example, a specialist with a digital planning tool, like ClearPilot, would help speed things up and keep everything in order. This innovative treatment platform can show the position and movement of each tooth and consolidate records and plans in one place. Through ClearPilot, doctors and patients can also visualise goals and customise procedures collaboratively.
7. Safety
Safety is another consideration when selecting from teeth straightening options. It involves two crucial aspects: choosing a reputable aligners brand and undergoing treatment with a qualified orthodontist. Opting for a subpar product can only worsen teeth misalignment and negatively impact oral health.
Check for available success stories and case studies of patients who have undergone the same treatment you are eyeing. And keep asking questions: What types of malocclusions can this product treat? What are its notable limitations? Are there risk factors when using them?
Remember: misinformation and low-quality products can do more harm than good. Don’t settle for the first teeth aligner you see online or whatever option someone recommends. Find the right product for you by considering these factors as a guide. And seek expert and personalised advice from a trusted doctor!
References:
Australia, O. (2021, September 8). Can bad teeth be genetic? Orthodontics Australia.
Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). (2020, January 16). Misaligned teeth and jaws: Overview. InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf.
Tamer, I., Öztaş, E., & Marşan, G. (2019). Orthodontic Treatment with Clear Aligners and The Scientific Reality Behind Their Marketing: A Literature Review. Turkish Journal of Orthodontics, 32(4), 241–246.
