What are Teeth Aligners?
Teeth aligners are orthodontic devices designed to straighten misaligned or crooked teeth. They are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces, which use wires and brackets to move teeth into the desired position.
Aligners are made of a clear, flexible material that is custom fit to the patient’s teeth. They are worn over the teeth and apply gentle pressure to shift them into the correct alignment. The aligners are usually worn for 20-22 hours per day and are replaced with a new set every two weeks as the teeth move.
Unlike metal braces, aligners are removable. The patient is responsible for putting them in and taking them out. Patients receive sets of aligners designed to move their teeth using the same method as braces: constant, gentle pressure.
What are the benefits of Teeth Aligners?
- Improved Appearance: Teeth aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for people who are conscious about their appearance.
- Comfort: Aligners are made of smooth plastic, which is more comfortable than traditional braces, which can have sharp edges and cause irritation to the mouth.
- Removability: Aligners are removable, which means that you can take them out when you eat or brush your teeth, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Custom-Fit: Aligners are custom-made for each patient’s teeth, ensuring a perfect fit that can result in more effective treatment.
- Shorter Treatment Time: In some cases, aligners can straighten teeth faster than traditional braces, which can take two to three years to achieve the desired results.
Types of Aligners & Braces:
- Traditional Braces – Traditional braces are orthodontic appliances used to align and straighten teeth. They consist of metal brackets and wires that are adjusted over time to move the teeth into the desired position.
- Ceramic Braces – Ceramic braces are orthodontic appliances that are similar to traditional metal braces but are made of clear or tooth-coloured materials.
- Lingual Braces – They work similarly to traditional braces, using brackets and wires to gradually move the teeth into their desired position, but with the added benefit of being less noticeable.
- Clear Aligners – Clear aligners are Transparent aligners. They are made of clear plastic material. We have to remove them before eating food.
- Invisalign – Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that are used for orthodontic treatment. They are custom-made, removable trays that are designed to gradually shift teeth into their desired position. Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces because they are virtually invisible, comfortable to wear, and allow for easier brushing and flossing.
- 3M Clarity aligners – Clarity Aligners gradually move your teeth – but without any metal wires or braces.
- Clear Correct aligners – Clear Correct aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that use a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into their desired position.
Teeth Aligner Prices in India:
The price of teeth aligners in India can vary depending on the type of aligner and the orthodontic treatment plan.
In general, traditional metal braces can cost anywhere from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 60,000 or more, while clear aligners can cost from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,50,000 or more depending on the brand and the complexity of the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Are Teeth Aligners safe? Yes, teeth aligners are generally considered safe and effective for straightening teeth. However, there are potential risks and side effects, and it is important to follow instructions and discuss any concerns with a dentist or orthodontist.
- How long will aligners take to straighten my teeth? The duration of treatment with aligners depends on the severity of orthodontic issues and can range from several months to two years.
- Are teeth Aligners better than Braces? Teeth aligners and braces both have their advantages and disadvantages, and which one is better depends on individual needs and preferences.
- Can I talk with the aligners clearly? Wearing aligners may take some time to adjust, but most people can talk clearly after a brief period of adaptation.
- How to maintain clear aligners? To maintain clear aligners, it’s important to clean them regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap or a cleaning solution recommended by your dentist. Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing aligners and be sure to store them properly when not in use.