Why Patients Prefer Clear Aligners

If you have crooked teeth or a misaligned bite pattern, there are orthodontic treatment options available to straighten your smile. Many patients think that their only option for straightening their teeth is traditional metal braces; however, modern dentistry has advanced to allow patients the opportunity to straighten their teeth with clear aligners. Learn why so many patients prefer clear aligners compared to traditional braces.

clear aligners

Understanding Metal Braces

Metal braces utilize a system of brackets and wires that are firmly secured to your dental structures for the entire duration of your treatment plan. Orthodontic treatment of any kind can take several months or even years to complete, so it’s important to consider the lifestyle alterations required to successfully undergo treatment with traditional metal braces.

Patients with traditional metal braces are encouraged to abide by certain dietary restrictions. Excessively chewy or crunchy foods can easily damage the orthodontic hardware and prolong your treatment plan. Additionally, patients with traditional metal braces are encouraged to take additional oral hygiene precautions after meals to ensure that no food residue is caught in the orthodontic hardware.

In order the maintain the pressure needed on your teeth to cause them to straighten, patients with traditional metal braces will need to attend monthly tightening appointments at their orthodontist’s office. During these appointments, your orthodontist will tighten the wires and replace the elastic bands securing the wires to the brackets on your teeth. If you are looking for a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces, clear aligners are a great option to consider.

How Clear Aligners Work

Clear aligners utilize a system of plastic sets of aligners worn over your teeth while in use, similar to retainers. The aligners put pressure to your teeth and shift them into position. Your dentist will give you all of your aligners upfront to reduce the amount of time you spend in the dental chair. This leaves more room for after-school and after-work activities.

They will instruct you on when to change to a new set of aligners, usually once every two weeks. In the meantime, patients enjoy many quality-of-life benefits with clear aligners including removability. The aligners are completely removable and should be removed whenever you want to eat, drink, or brush your teeth.

Patients love clear aligners because they do not have to worry about any dietary restrictions or oral hygiene hazards as they would with traditional metal braces. Plus, the aligners can be removed for special occasions like weddings, job interviews, or first dates. If you want to spend less time in the dental chair while still acquiring the same beautiful straightening results, clear aligners may be the right choice for you.

Clear Aligners in Virginia Beach, VA

Are you looking for clear aligners in Virginia Beach, VA? Coastal Cosmetic + Implant Dentistry offers clear aligners via ClearCorrect. Learn more about your orthodontic treatment options by scheduling an appointment with our Virginia Beach, VA dentists. We look forward to helping you achieve your dream smile.