Common Issues Corrected by Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are fast becoming a popular method of correcting orthodontic and cosmetic issues with teeth. One of the first things people will notice about you during a meeting is your smile. If you are not happy with the way your teeth look, you may feel self-conscious during these occasions. You can have good self-esteem and a positive self-image by doing a treatment with aligners. Your dentist can get you started.

A description of clear aligners

Other treatments can be effective but stand out and can be uncomfortable. An aligner is a plastic mouthguard that fits over the teeth. Over time, it puts pressure on the teeth, forcing them to move into the proper positions in the mouth. Aligners offer an aesthetically pleasing solution to various tooth and jaw dysfunctions.

Treatment with aligners is often shorter than what alternatives offer. Plus, patients will not have to wear the aligners 24 hours a day. The dentist starts by taking 3D images, creating a model of the patient’s mouth. From these, the dentist makes a treatment plan and the first set of aligners. The patient will get a new set every few weeks.

Crooked teeth

It is not uncommon for people to contend with having crooked teeth. This issue can hamper a smile and make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene. Aligners can straighten teeth by gradually shifting the teeth into the correct locations. Clear aligners can usually accomplish this in 12 to 18 months. The length of the treatment will depend on the severity of the person’s condition. The patient’s diligence in wearing the aligners will determine the treatment’s success.

Crowded mouth

When a person does not have enough space in the jaw, the emerging teeth can come in at odd angles. The results can make teeth appear twisted and overlap. This also creates problems for the person’s oral health, as food can become stuck in between the small spaces. Plaque and tartar can build up, causing cavities and gum disease. Clear aligners can properly position the teeth and make enough space in between them.

Gaps

Sometimes, people deal with the opposite problem of a crowded mouth. Large spaces in the jaw create unsightly gaps where it can look as though teeth are missing. This can be an embarrassing condition. Fortunately, clear aligners can address this concern. The aligners will move the teeth closer together, reducing the distance between teeth.

Bite abnormalities

When the upper front teeth overlap the bottom front teeth, an overbite occurs. The opposite situation results in an underbite. Another type of bite problem, a crossbite, can also cause problems. This happens when a person’s upper teeth fit behind the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. All three of these conditions can affect the person’s ability to chew effectively. There are also implications with the person’s speech and smile.