We answer this and some other common orthodontic misconceptions to set you straight (pun intended).

Traditional braces are clunky, painful and, to the wearer, unsightly. Braces have been around for decades, so everyone is familiar with them and believe them to be THE way to correct crooked teeth. In some cases, wearing braces is unavoidable, but in others, a clear aligner is all that is needed for you to get a perfect smile. We understand that people may be sceptical of the benefits of clear aligners over braces, so allow us to address some of this uncertainty.

1. It is true that clear aligners are as effective as braces
As a Gold Invisalign Provider, we know exactly how effective clear aligners are at straightening teeth. Invisalign devices have corrected over 4.5 million smiles and counting. That said, if we at DentalCareXtra believe that a clear aligner is not the right option for you, we won’t recommend it, and will discuss other corrective options with you.

2. Clear aligners mean fewer dental check-ups
Traditional braces require regular adjustments to the wires and bands, leaving patients feeling sore and dreading their next visit. But, if you are using clear aligners, we only need to see you every six to eight weeks.

And, to make it even easier, DentalCareXtra are now offering Dental Monitoring via your smartphone. This method of monitoring allows you to send through photographs of your teeth for our team to review which could save you money, travel and time as it could down on the dental visits even further.

With these options, it is up to the patient to remember to change out their aligner every two to three weeks to keep the straightening progressing.

3. Clear aligners are worn for as long as braces
A perfect smile takes time. 18 to 24 months in fact. But, the big difference is the sight and comfort of clear aligners versus braces. Clear aligners can be removed for special occasions, eating and drinking, or cleaning, whereas braces can’t. Temporary removal of the clear aligner is not going to impede the progress of your tooth straightening. In fact, removing them allows for better dental hygiene practices, something which is made difficult with traditional braces.

4. Retainers are for life
At the conclusion of your straightening treatment (whether it be braces, Invisalign, Myobrace or another method) you may be required to wear a retainer. The purpose of a retainer is in the name. It ‘retains’ the straightened teeth and without it, you risk your teeth moving back to their crooked formation. Retainers aren’t as inconvenient as they sound because they only need to be worn at night while you sleep or your retainer may in the form of a fixed wire which you won’t even know you’re wearing. But, retainers are patient specific. Your dentist will discuss the necessity (or not) of a retainer with you at the end of your treatment.

If you have any other questions or concerns about clear aligners, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team at DentalCareXtra. Alternatively, complete the form below and a member of our team will contact you.

References:
Invisalign.com.au (2018) Advantages of Invisalign Treatment over Braces [online]