The Health Benefits of Clear Aligner Therapy
When people think of clear aligner therapy like Invisalign, they often think of straight teeth for a beautiful smile. What people don’t often realize is that there are so many other benefits to clear aligner therapy that can be even more helpful for the future health of teeth and gums. At Reclaim, we talk about beauty and wellness going hand in hand. Clear aligner therapy is a perfect example of a great treatment that improves the health of the teeth as well as makes a smile more beautiful.
Nothing is better than kicking off the new year on the path towards a straight, healthy smile. Clear aligners offer a seamless path to the self-confidence you deserve. In this blog post, we highlight the advantages clear aligners offer, give a step-by-step outline of the treatment process, and highlight the success rate.
The Advantages of Clear Aligners
Clear aligners offer a range of advantages that distinguish them from traditional metal braces. First and foremost, their aesthetic appeal is unparalleled as they are virtually invisible when worn, allowing individuals to confidently smile throughout the course of their treatment. Additionally, aligners are custom-made to provide a comfortable fit, reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort commonly associated with traditional braces. Clear aligners are gentle in nature, allowing patients to avoid periodontal problems and bone loss down the road. Proper alignment of teeth also serves to prevent food impaction, which often contributes to cavities and periodontal disease.
Beyond cosmetic benefits, additional benefits may also include improved airway health. By increasing oral volume and space for the tongue to live, clear aligner therapy can help the mandible and tongue sit in a more forward position, opening the airway and improving sleep and breathing. At Reclaim, we often combine clear aligner therapy with other interventions for those with more significant airway issues, especially those with upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) or mild-moderate-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Additionally, clear aligners may address TMJ issues such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching, clicking and popping, and joint deterioration by restructuring the upper and lower arches and creating a better biting position relative to the muscles and joints. In treatment, they also serve as a protective barrier between upper and lower teeth.
The convenience of removable aligners further sets them apart. Easily removable during activities such as eating, brushing, or flossing, they facilitate better oral hygiene practices and enable individuals to enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions. Moreover, the use of advanced computer technology and 3D imaging enhances the predictability of results, ensuring the smooth progression of treatment by accurately anticipating the movement of teeth.
Furthermore, clear aligners not only align teeth but also ensure their correct long-term position, reducing the likelihood of relapse and the need for additional orthodontic treatment later in life. In essence, the multifaceted advantages of clear aligners make them a comprehensive and effective choice for individuals seeking orthodontic solutions.
The Clear Aligner Treatment Process
Achieving the smile of your dreams can be a very simple process. Your journey begins with a consultation with our experienced team. We’ll assess your oral health and discuss your goals for treatment. If clear aligners are the right choice for you, we’ll create a customized treatment plan that outlines the anticipated duration of your treatment and what you can expect.
We’ll take digital impressions of your teeth, avoiding the discomfort of traditional molds. These impressions help us create aligners tailored to your unique smile. We collaborate with a team of orthodontists and other specialists to develop a comprehensive treatment strategy using digital 3D scans, ensuring optimal results.
You’ll receive a series of aligners to wear, typically changing them every week or every other week. Each set of aligners will gradually move your teeth into their desired positions. We’ll schedule regular check-ups to monitor your progress and ensure your treatment is on track. These appointments are essential to the success of your smile transformation. Treatment may take between six to twelve months or more, depending on your customized treatment plan.
Success Rate
The success rate of clear aligners, such as Candid or other similar brands, can be quite high when used according to the treatment plan and under proper supervision. However, the actual success rate may vary depending on several factors.
Success with clear aligners relies heavily on patient compliance. This means wearing the aligners for the recommended number of hours each day (typically 20-22 hours) and following our instructions on when to change to the next set of aligners. The success rate may also depend on the complexity of the orthodontic issue being addressed. Clear aligners are effective for many mild to moderate cases, but severe cases or those with significant misalignments may require traditional braces for the best results or surgical options for a more ideal outcome.
Maintaining good oral hygiene throughout the treatment is essential. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Adjustments may be needed, and issues can be addressed promptly.
For former Smile Direct Club patients affected by their bankruptcy, Reclaim Dentistry welcomes you with a clear aligner treatment plan at a discounted price. Contact us for more information and to schedule an orthodontic consult. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process.