Clear Aligners

Advantages

The advantages of aligners include:

• Predictable results—before starting treatment, dentists use special software to simulate the necessary tooth movements and create a 3D model of the patient's jaws;
• No painful sensations, minimal discomfort, and quick adaptation to wearing the removable orthodontic device;
• No speech impairment—the material from which aligners are made is thin and does not hinder talking;
• Invisibility—caps are made from transparent polymer, are hard to spot when smiling or talking, and do not discolor even with prolonged use;
• Convenience—they can be removed and put on independently, reducing the need for frequent dental visits;
• Easy maintenance—simply remove the aligners and clean them with a toothbrush and regular toothpaste;
• Minimal contraindications.

If a patient cannot use braces for any reason, aligners are the only alternative.

Indications and Contraindications

Transparent plastic caps are fitted after a diagnosis. The dentist conducts an examination and takes X-ray images. Computer tomography may be required, which allows for highly accurate assessment of the patient's dental system.

With aligners, it is possible to:

• Correct minor tooth crowding;
• Address bite issues that affect the aesthetics of the smile;
• Eliminate interdental gaps, crevices, trema, diastemas;
• Correct the improper positioning of teeth.

They are also used when other orthodontic devices cannot resolve the issue.

Contraindications for fitting aligners include:

• Serious bite disorders;
• Dental diseases such as caries or pulpitis, which must be treated first;
• Absence of multiple teeth;
• Presence of unerupted teeth.

This option is not suitable for undisciplined individuals who might remove the caps despite recommendations on the duration of wear. Therefore, braces might be a better option for children.

Types of Aligners

The most effective caps are those made from impressions taken from the patient's teeth. Standard aligners with a generalized anatomical shape are also used in dentistry. This is a budget solution, which makes achieving the desired result more challenging. In most cases, removable orthodontic devices must be worn around the clock, with brief breaks for eating and oral care. However, there are nighttime aligners, worn only at night, used for correcting minor bite defects, alleviating bruxism, and securing the results of orthodontic treatment.

Stages of Teeth Alignment Using Aligners

Bite correction and other problem-solving are carried out in several stages. At the first consultation, the orthodontist will examine the patient, listen to complaints, and collect anamnesis. If necessary, additional diagnostics are prescribed to gain more information about the patient's dental system and identify contraindications. Next, the dentist will take photographs for the photo protocol and use a scanner to obtain digital impressions of the teeth. These are needed for 3D modeling of treatment results, based on which technicians in the laboratory will make the aligners. Before starting orthodontic correction, it is necessary to treat any dental and gum diseases and perform professional teeth cleaning. Then, the orthodontist will help the patient fit the first caps and issue a full set. Subsequently, the patient needs to independently change the pair approximately every 7-14 days, following the doctor's instructions. Regular visits to the orthodontist every 2-3 months are also necessary to monitor the progress made during the correction.