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Clear Align Treatment (Invisalign)
Clear aligner therapy is an orthodontic treatment that allows for the correction and alignment of crooked teeth and the reconstruction of the jaw. Clear aligner therapy offers several advantages over traditional orthodontic treatments. Among these are a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to metal braces or brackets. Other advantages include shorter treatment times and the ability to remove them at specific times of the day.
How is Clear Aligner Treatment Applied?
Clear aligner treatment is planned individually based on the patient's dental structure. Clear aligners are custom-made using 3D devices and custom measurements. The steps involved in applying clear aligners are as follows:
Dental Examination: After an initial dental examination, patients are referred to an orthodontist. The orthodontist evaluates the condition of their teeth and jaw structure, and determines whether they are suitable for clear aligners.
Mouth impressions: Creating custom trays can begin with taking dental impressions. Digital images of the mouth are taken to determine the exact size of the teeth for treatment planning.
Treatment plan: Based on the tooth size, trays are prepared for production using 3D computer software. The tray measurements are then adjusted and adjusted to facilitate movement in the mouth.
Production of clear aligners: Clear aligners are produced from medical grade thermoplastic material according to specially determined dimensions.
Placing the trays: The prepared clear trays are fitted tightly into the patient's mouth. The trays are changed every 1-2 weeks, and each new tray is designed to conform to the new shape of the teeth. Once the trays are in place, they are hardly noticeable from the outside.
Regular checkups: After the clear aligner is fitted, checkups are scheduled at regular intervals determined by the doctor. During these checkups, the progress of treatment is evaluated, and aligner adjustments can be made as necessary.
Clear aligner treatment is carried out in collaboration between the dentist and orthodontist. Following a final checkup, the aligners are removed and the treatment is completed.
What are the advantages of clear aligner treatment?
Clear aligner treatment, like other braces , is a method that gradually improves the appearance of teeth. Clear aligners fit perfectly around the teeth and are difficult to detect. Some of the advantages of clear aligner treatment include:
Being removable at certain times of the day offers ease of use and a comfortable treatment process compared to other methods.
Since clear aligners are hard to notice from the outside, they are an alternative option for those who do not want to wear metal braces.
While some foods and drinks are prohibited in traditional braces treatments, any desired foods can be consumed in clear plate treatment.
Since the treatment plan is prepared digitally, the course of the treatment can be predetermined.
Metal braces require more frequent checkups due to their short-term adjustments. However, because clear aligners are pre-made, checkups can be longer than with these methods.
Clear Alignment Treatment Duration
Clear aligner treatment duration can vary depending on the individual's dental and jaw structure, their compliance with the treatment, and the desired outcome. Clear aligner treatment typically lasts between three months and one year. However, this timeframe can vary depending on how closely the treatment plan is followed. Because clear aligner treatment is planned according to the individual's needs, the duration of the procedure can be determined by the orthodontist conducting the treatment.
Are Clear Aligners Removable?
Clear aligners are removable for a specific period of time. This is one of the key advantages of clear aligner treatment for patients. Clear aligners are generally worn for 20 hours a day and can be removed for eating and brushing teeth. Some plans include only 10 hours of nighttime wear during sleep. Some of the advantages of clear aligner removal are as follows:
Compared to traditional braces, eating comfort and food residue not getting stuck in the plates
For a good oral and dental hygiene , brushing and flossing should be done more easily after eating.
Removal of plaques in situations requiring participation in special occasions or social events to achieve an aesthetic appearance.
While removable aligners offer many advantages, it's important to wear them for the duration recommended by your doctor. Shorter aligners can prolong treatment and may not produce the desired results.
Who can have clear aligners made?
Clear aligner treatment is a suitable treatment for teeth with mild to moderate misalignment. Clear aligners are preferred by those with these types of teeth due to their more comfortable treatment and aesthetic concerns. For those with more than mild to moderate misalignment of teeth and more problematic jaw structures , traditional metal braces are recommended.
What to Pay Attention to After Treatment?
There are certain points to consider when using clear aligners or other orthodontic treatments . The post-treatment period is crucial for protecting the new teeth. Therefore, space maintainers should be worn for the recommended periods by your dentist. Additionally, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid hard, sticky, and sugary foods to prevent the risk of tooth decay, adopt healthy eating habits, and schedule dental checkups at least every six months.
Are There Any Complications of Clear Alignment Treatment?
Clear aligner treatment, like other orthodontic treatments, can have complications. Some of these potential complications include:
Feeling of discomfort: In the early stages of treatment, you may experience difficulty speaking, swallowing, and general discomfort due to the presence of a foreign object in your mouth.
Mouth sores: In case of inadequate oral hygiene and friction, mouth sores may occur.
Longer treatment: Since clear aligners do not stay in the mouth permanently, they may require a longer treatment period than metal braces.
Difficulty in maintenance: Clear aligners require regular changing and cleaning. If not maintained regularly, they can darken or develop a foul odor over time.
Damaged aligners: Aligners can break or become damaged during removal or cleaning, which can extend treatment time and incur additional costs.
Other side effects: Clear aligners may not fit well in some people and may cause side effects, including increased salivation, headaches, or jaw pain.
Clear Align Treatment (Invisalign etc.) FAQ
Q: Are clear aligners better than braces? A: This isn't a matter of "goodness," but rather "convenience." Clear aligners (Invisalign) offer significant advantages, including being virtually invisible, removable for eating, and easier to clean. However, not every case (especially severe crowding) is suitable for clear aligner treatment.
Q: How many hours per day should the aligners be worn? A: For the treatment to be successful and complete on time, aligners must be worn for an average of 20 to 22 hours per day. They should only be removed when eating or brushing your teeth.
Q: How long does clear aligner treatment take? A: Treatment time varies depending on the difficulty of the case (the degree of crowding). Very mild cases may take 4-6 months, while average cases may take 1 year, and more complex cases may take 1.5-2 years. This timeframe is similar to that of braces.