Clear aligners or invisible aligners have become a popular option in the field of orthodontics. They are a type of orthodontic treatment that corrects misaligned or crooked teeth. The aim of clear or invisible aligners is to improve such dental imperfections, which also includes crowding, too much space between teeth, crossbite, overbite, and open bite. 

They are practically invisible and have the option of being removed as needed. These are designed around convenience and flexibility, along with providing the best results. If you are looking for alternatives to traditional braces, clear aligners are your best bet to bring back your aesthetically pleasing smile. 

How are clear aligners different from traditional braces? 

Clear aligners work similarly to traditional braces as they both use gradual and progressive force to guide teeth into a new, proper position, but without any metal wires or brackets. 

The difference is that clear aligner are made of a strong, clear, and plastic material that is customized to the patient's teeth, while traditional braces use metal wires and brackets. In terms of visibility, clear aligners are invisible or difficult to spot. 

Clear aligners are flexible and removable, unlike the traditional braces. Clear aligners can be removed while eating, brushing, or flossing, and since it is removable, it is easy to maintain routine healthy oral care. 

Further, clear aligners take relatively less time to show results compared to traditional braces (but it depends on every case and the severity of teeth misalignment (malocclusion)). There are plenty of other differences, but these are a few that stand out. 

How do clear aligners work in fixing the teeth position? 

Clear aligners are designed to move teeth in the desired direction and are custom-made for each case. This is achieved by digitally capturing impressions and processing them using specialized software. Then the future projections for straighter teeth are computed and then a 3D printing technology (machine) automatically custom fabricates the set of trays. On average, a person needs approximately 25-40 sets for complete teeth alignment. 

Every new tray is prepared to be slightly closer to the ideal position of the person’s teeth. When a new aligner is placed in the mouth, it will be tight and as the teeth shift to fit into the new tray the older aligner will no longer be tight. 

What is the complete procedure for clear aligners? 

1. Custom Treatment Plan 
After a complete and thorough examination of the teeth, the dentist will take a precise digital scan of the mouth and the teeth impressions and prepare a custom treatment plan. A digital preview of your new smile is shown before the aligners are prepared.

2. Aligners Preparation 

After teeth impressions are taken, the custom treatment plan is sent to a digital treatment facility or if the facility is in-house, the aligners are fabricated in-house. First, the lab technicians examine all areas to ensure proper fit - the dental arch, the gingiva, etc. 

Then, the digital plan is again reviewed by the dentist and upon approval, the aligners are fabricated. A series of clear trays are needed to eventually move the teeth into place. However, the duration of treatment and number of trays will vary from person to person. 

3. Aligners upkeep 

Every 1 - 2 weeks, patients receive a new set of aligners. Each set of aligners will gradually move the teeth into the correct position, as per the individual’s treatment plan. Depending on the patient, the severity, and post-care measures taken, treatment can take anywhere from 3 to 24 months, sometimes longer. 

Aligners have to be worn for at least 20-22 hours a day, only being removed for eating or brushing the teeth. 

4. After Treatment 

Your orthodontist will now advise retainers to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their previous location. From a mold of the newly straightened teeth, a custom retainer is made. Retainers are advised to be worn every night while sleeping. 

Results after using clear aligners - 

The results of the treatment are permanent, provided the aligners are worn for at least 20-22 hours every day, and retainers are used after the treatment. The results start showing anywhere between 4-6 weeks and on average and can take about 12-14 months for the complete transformation to be accomplished (The time is completely dependent on the severity of the case). 

Here are a few tips for preserving Clear Aligners: 

• Rinse them with cold or lukewarm water after removal. 

• Do not clean them with hot water as the heat can damage the plastic.

• Always brush and floss your teeth before wearing the aligners.

• Soak them in a retainer or denture cleaner for a couple of minutes.

• Remove the aligners before eating.

• Never clean them with toothpaste. 

What is the price or cost of clear aligners treatment in India? 

Aligners are costlier than traditional braces, however, considering the effectiveness, it is worth the cost. The invisible braces cost in Bangalore may vary depending on the severity, brand, location, and more. However, on average, the price of clear aligners ranges from Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 3,00,000. You will get clear aligners at a low cost in Bangalore at Sakra World Hospital and you will also be guided by the Best Dentists throughout the surgery.

For more information, get in touch with us. We are among the most recognized and trusted dental hospitals in Bangalore.

FAQs

1. What is the clear aligners treatment procedure?

Clear aligner treatment begins with a dental examination, digital scans or impressions, and a personalised treatment plan. A series of transparent, removable trays is then designed to move the teeth gradually into the desired positions.

2. How do clear aligners straighten teeth?

Clear aligners apply gentle, controlled pressure to move teeth gradually into better alignment. Each set is worn for a prescribed period before progressing to the next set, following the orthodontist's instructions.

3. How long does clear aligner treatment take?

Clear aligner treatment typically takes around 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case and how consistently the aligners are worn. Some cases may require less or more time, along with follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

4. How do I clean and maintain clear aligners?

Clean clear aligners daily using a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water or a cleaner recommended by the orthodontist. Avoid hot water, which can distort the plastic, and remove the aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.

5. Are clear aligners effective for crooked or misaligned teeth?

Yes, clear aligners can treat many cases of crooked teeth, crowding, spacing, and certain bite problems. However, complex orthodontic conditions may require braces or other treatments, so an orthodontist should assess suitability.

6. Do clear aligners affect speech?

Clear aligners may cause a slight lisp or temporary change in speech when first worn. Most people adapt within a few days as the tongue adjusts to the trays.

7. When should I consult an orthodontist for clear aligner treatment?

Consult an orthodontist if you have crooked teeth, gaps, crowding, bite problems, or difficulty cleaning misaligned teeth. An orthodontic assessment can determine whether clear aligners are suitable and help establish a treatment plan based on your dental needs.