You only have one set of adult teeth, and they need to last until you are 80, 90, or beyond. The actions you take towards your teeth today will either benefit you or harm you in the future. Of course, good dental care starts with seeing a dentist regularly. You should go in for cleanings and checkups, and any other time you think something might be amiss with your teeth. Education is important when it comes to any aspect of your health, so start reading the articles on this website to educate yourself about dentists and dental care. We promise that when you're 80 and you still have your teeth, you won't regret the time spent.
The Tooth of the Matter: A Dental Blog
Need Braces? Choose Clear Aligners
Sofia Curtis
If your orthodontist has told you that you need braces you have different options. One option is the traditional metal braces. Another option that may work well for you is clear aligners. Below is information on what this is, as well as some benefits this offers you.
Clear Aligners
Traditional braces are made of metal and have wires and brackets that are used to secure the braces to your teeth. Clear aligners do not use any kind of metal but instead are made with a durable plastic. The braces are molded so that they fit perfectly inside your mouth and on your teeth. Aligners are also used to straighten your teeth. The aligners work much like traditional braces in that they slowly move your teeth to straighten them. Aligners can be removed but you must wear them most of the time for them to work. Your orthodontist will give you information about this.
Clear Aligner Benefits
One main benefit of clear aligners is they are much more comfortable to wear because no metal wire or brackets are used. Metal braces can irritate your cheeks and gums, which can be painful. You will not have to worry about this with clear aligners.
In some cases, they work faster so you will not have to wear the aligners as long as metal braces. This will depend on how crooked your teeth are, however. In some cases, you wear them only for a few months. These aligners work best if your teeth are not severely crooked. They will not take care of problems with an underbite or an overbite, however.
Because you can remove these aligners, they are easier to take care of. With metal braces, food can easily get stuck in the wires. This requires a special tool to remove the food to keep your teeth clean. If not done correctly, you may have tooth decay when your metal braces are removed. With aligners, you remove them to brush and floss your teeth then put them back in.
Because the aligners are clear they are not as noticeable as metal braces. This can make you feel better about yourself. These aligners can also save you money as they are generally less expensive when compared to having metal braces.
Your orthodontist will give you much more information on clear aligners. They will do an examination to determine if these aligners will work well for you.
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