Treating crooked teeth does not just improve your smile's appearance; it can also improve your dental health. Clear braces can straighten teeth, offering numerous benefits:
Even though they do not utilize traditional wires, brackets, and bands, clear braces can be just as effective at treating poor tooth alignment.
Clear braces are actually trays, usually made of medical-grade plastic. A dentist takes impressions or scans of the patient's mouth, and these are used to create a customized set of trays for treatment. How long the treatment lasts depends on the severity of the patient's issues. Most people can expect a minimum of six months from start to finish, while others may need a year or more.
Each tray is designed to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position for a straight and even smile. The trays must be worn most of the time, usually at least 22 hours during each day. Sometimes, a dentist may place small, tooth-colored attachments on the teeth to help the trays work more effectively or to help them stay in place during wear.
Every one to two weeks, a new tray is given to the patient until treatment is complete. Following this, patients are given a retainer to help keep the teeth straight. How long and how often a retainer must be worn varies from patient to patient. However, most dentists recommend wearing them for life since teeth will likely shift back over time without them.
Many people prefer clear braces because they have a more discreet appearance than traditional braces. They are significantly less noticeable, and they can still be removed when necessary for very short periods. This helps many patients feel more confident during the treatment process.
Aligner trays are designed to be more comfortable for patients as well. This approach means the teeth are moved at a steadier, yet gradual pace during the process. In addition, the smooth plastic surface is much gentler on the soft tissues of the mouth.
Because clear braces are removable, the risks of tooth decay, tartar buildup, and staining are significantly lower. Patients can remove the trays for eating, brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, ensuring a thoroughly clean and more beautiful smile throughout the entire process. This also means patients do not have to avoid certain foods that are not recommended when wearing traditional braces.
Clear braces are an excellent option for treating crooked teeth. Not only are they effective at creating a straighter smile, but they also offer many advantages that traditional methods cannot provide. While they can be used for a variety of issues and at many ages, aligner trays are not right for everyone. A dentist can help you determine if you are a good candidate for this type of treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.tucsonazdentistry.com or call Advanced Family Dentistry at (520) 353-3002 for an appointment in our Tucson office.
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