In recent years, clear aligners have become a popular choice for patients with aesthetic concerns who do not want to wear braces. Clear aligners provide an invisible and comfortable solution during the dental correction process. But how does treatment with clear aligners work, and what should you pay attention to during the process? In this article, we will explore the stages of dental treatment with clear aligners and detail the care tips that should be followed throughout the treatment.
Clear Aligners Treatment Process
Clear aligner treatment is based on gradually moving the teeth into the desired position with custom-made aligners. Unlike traditional metal braces, these aligners are completely transparent and not noticeable from the outside. They apply gentle and consistent pressure to align your teeth.
1. Initial Examination and Planning
The first stage of clear aligner treatment begins with a comprehensive examination by your dentist. During this examination, the condition of your teeth is evaluated, and it is determined whether aligners are suitable. Digital scans or molds of your teeth are taken to plan how the aligners will be made.
2. Aligners Production
After your teeth are digitally scanned, the data is sent to the laboratory where the aligners will be produced. Clear aligners are custom-designed according to the current position of your teeth and the desired outcome. Typically, the aligners are ready within a few weeks.
3. Delivery of Aligners and First Fitting
Once ready, your dentist will deliver the aligners and explain how to wear them. One of the biggest advantages of clear aligners is that they are removable. However, for the treatment to be effective, it is essential to wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day. You should only remove them when eating and brushing your teeth.
4. Progress During Treatment
During clear aligner treatment, a new set of aligners is provided every two weeks. Each new set moves your teeth slightly more compared to the previous set, bringing them step by step toward the final position. The treatment period usually ranges from 12 to 18 months, depending on the condition of the teeth and adherence to the treatment plan.
What to Pay Attention to During Clear Aligner Treatment
While clear aligners offer significant aesthetic advantages, there are some important rules to follow during the treatment process. Developing certain habits is crucial for the aligners to work effectively.
1. Wearing the Aligners Regularly
For the treatment to be successful, aligners must be worn consistently. They should be kept in place for at least 20-22 hours a day. If the aligners are not worn, the treatment duration may extend, and the teeth may not reach the expected alignment.
2. Keeping the Aligners Clean
Clear aligners require daily cleaning, just like your teeth. It is recommended to gently clean them with lukewarm water and a soft brush each time you remove them. Avoid cleaning them with hot water, as it can damage the structure of the aligners.
3. Removing Aligners Before Eating
Clear aligners should be removed during meals. Eating with the aligners in place can damage them and lead to food residue building up. Additionally, removing them while drinking is important to prevent discoloration.
4. Brushing Your Teeth Regularly
You should brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in. Keeping the teeth under the aligners clean is crucial for maintaining dental health. Since the aligners fit tightly over the teeth, food particles or plaque buildup can remain under them, leading to cavities.
Post-Treatment Care After Clear Aligners
After completing treatment with clear aligners, it is necessary to wear a retainer to stabilize the teeth in their new position. Retainers prevent the teeth from shifting back and help maintain the results achieved through treatment.
1. Using a Retainer
To prevent the teeth from returning to their previous position, your dentist will recommend a retainer after the treatment. These devices, typically worn at night, help keep the teeth in place. Failure to use the retainer may cause the teeth to shift back over time.
2. Regular Dental Checkups
Even after the treatment is complete, regular visits to your dentist are important. Your dentist will monitor the results of the treatment and may suggest additional treatments if necessary. Regular checkups with your dentist help ensure your dental health is maintained.
3. Continuing Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene after clear aligner treatment is essential for preserving your dental health. Brushing your teeth, using dental floss, and visiting the dentist for checkups will help keep your teeth healthy.
Clear aligner treatment is a modern orthodontic method that combines aesthetics and comfort. Wearing the aligners consistently and applying proper care throughout the treatment is critical to achieving successful results. Keeping the aligners clean, brushing your teeth regularly, and attending checkups with your dentist will ensure that your teeth become healthy and properly aligned. Clear aligners are an excellent option for patients who are concerned about aesthetics and do not want to wear braces.
