Indications That Plastic Aligners Could Be Right For You

Dental misalignments are common. Many people do not have naturally straight teeth. Nevertheless, a misalignment can be corrected using orthodontic devices. 

Braces were once the only options available to people who needed to have their teeth straightened. The devices include brackets, an archwire, and elastic bands. The elastic bands connect the archwire to the brackets, which are bonded to the teeth. As the dentist or orthodontist adjusts the archwire, aligning pressure is applied to move the teeth into a straighter configuration. 

Nowadays, additional treatment options are available, including plastic aligners. Here are a few indications that plastic aligners, such as Invisalign, could be right for you.

Your Teeth Are Only Moderately Crooked

If your teeth are only moderately misaligned, plastic aligners could be a good solution to correct their placement. The aligners work best for minor to moderate alignment issues that can be corrected without the use of brackets and an archwire.

With aligners, after your teeth are assessed using digital imagery, a dental lab creates the aligning trays that will be used to straighten your teeth. The aligners are constructed from rigid plastic and gradually coax the teeth into the desired position. 

The trays fit over the teeth and apply pressure to align the teeth with the configuration of the plastic trays. Thus, more than one set of aligners is used during the treatment process. In fact, multiple sets are prescribed and worn in a specific order. Each set is applied for a few weeks and then replaced by the next set in the plan. 

Your Jaws Are No Longer Growing

Plastic aligners work best on people with palates that have are no longer growing. Thus, your dentist is only likely to prescribe the devices if you are an adult or older teen.

You Are Responsible Enough to Wear the Trays as Prescribed

In order for the aligners to work properly, they must be worn as prescribed. The trays should be left out of the mouth for no more than a couple of hours daily. Thus, the treatment plan requires the commitment and consistency of the patient. Nevertheless, the trays can be removed to allow for comfortable eating and teeth-cleaning. 

You Don't Want Your Treatment to Be Obvious

The aligners are transparent. Thus, if you are self-conscious about your appearance, you don't have to worry that they will be easily seen in your mouth.

To learn more about clear plastic aligners, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.