How Does Clear Aligners Teeth Straightening Work?

The benefit of clear aligners is that the tools can straighten the teeth discreetly. The patient can still enjoy many of their favorite foods during treatment. Plus, aligners make it easy to clean the teeth during treatment. Keep reading to learn about how the aligners work.

Using clear aligners

First, the orthodontist will examine the patient. The orthodontist can decide if the patient is the right candidate for aligners. There are many aligners, and even if one brand is incorrect, another one might be. The provider’s experience and skill are critical to the success of the treatment.

What to expect and how aligners work

The orthodontist can take a medical and dental history if the patient is the right candidate for clear aligners. The orthodontist might take X-rays of the mouth and photograph the teeth and face. The orthodontist then sends these to the lab to create the aligners. The lab makes a computer 3D model of the patient’s teeth, and the orthodontist can use that to create the trays.

The trays must be worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next. The teeth become slightly straighter with each new tray. The patient can expect the teeth to move around a tenth of a millimeter daily. Each new aligner pressures the teeth, encouraging them to move. If the patient wears them enough, the teeth can start to move to match the tray. The key is consistent, light pressure.

Using attachments

Sometimes, the patient might need to have attachments on the teeth to help the aligners move. These are plastic bumps that are tooth-colored. These allow the aligners to grip the attachment to become straighter. The goal is to place pressure on specific areas so that the aligners can move the teeth in the right location.

Sometimes, the patient might have to use rubber bands with the aligners. These bands can place more pressure on the teeth to correct the patient’s bite. That allows the aligners to do more than they could by themselves. Patients will need to follow the orthodontists’ instructions carefully.

How long are clear aligners necessary?

One advantage of clear aligners is that it is easy to take them out to drink, eat, or clean. Plus, it is not hard to care for the aligners. Patients need to wear the aligners for about 22 hours each day. Depending on the patient, the treatment time might be around six months to two years. The time depends on how severe the issues were.