Straight teeth and a revitalized smile may no longer need to come from a mouth full of unattractive wire and bracket braces. Enhancing self-esteem and physical confidence, invisible braces offer an esthetic and barely visible alternative to conventional wire/bracket braces. The clear aligners (also called clear braces) are manufactured using advanced computer technology that predicts tooth movement, making it possible for the removable orthodontic appliance to gradually straighten teeth.

CONDITIONS TREATED WITH INVISIBLE BRACES

 Invisible braces can be used to treat the following orthodontic conditions:

  • Overbite or overjet
  • Crowded or widely spaced teeth
  • Crooked teeth

Invisible braces are designed for adults and older teenagers; invisible braces are not recommended when baby teeth remain. Children and younger teenagers faced with orthodontic problems will require traditional metal braces with brackets/wires on the front of the teeth. However, only your dentist or orthodontist can determine if you are a candidate for invisible braces. The clear aligner treatment was designed primarily for adults due to the need for absolute and rigid cooperation; the trays are worn 22 hours per day and should not be forgotten or lost.

However, since clear aligners are removable, they may require more motivation and self-discipline to wear consistently, and they are easier to misplace or lose. Lost clear aligners may result in treatment delay and additional replacement costs. While fairly comfortable, clear aligners can cause discomfort or mild pain, particularly at the beginning when new aligners are placed and exert pressure on the teeth to move them. Additionally, clear aligners are available only from dentists or orthodontists manufacturer-certified and trained to offer them.

  • Clear aligners are made after your dentist/orthodontist takes three-dimensional impressions of your teeth and sends them to a manufacturer-specific laboratory that fabricates your custom-fit clear aligners using computerized technology. 
  • These aligners are then sent to your dentist/orthodontist to be tried on and evaluated for suitability. Clear aligners are provided in sets.
  •  The number of aligners will depend on your specific orthodontic problem. You will wear each new aligner set for a specified amount of time, removing them only to eat, drink, brush and floss. 
  • With each new aligner set, your teeth slowly adjust and gradually realign to your desired smile. At periodic visits, your dentist/orthodontist will provide the next aligner set and evaluate your progress throughout treatment.