Have you thought about straightening your teeth, but you don't like the idea of wearing braces? Clear aligners may be the solution. Here's what you should know.
The Advantages of Clear Aligners in Columbus
How They Work
Your clear aligners are custom-designed to fit snugly against your teeth and move them in small increments. Every two weeks, you'll change your aligners and move to the next set in the series. With periodic visits to your dentist every few weeks, we'll keep your smile on track. Most patients can finish treatment with clear aligners in 10 to 18 months, depending on their needs.
The Pros
Clear aligners provide several benefits over braces that most patients appreciate:
- Discretion — Because they're clear, your aligners are not as noticeable as braces are.
- Freedom — You're free to enjoy all the foods you love with clear aligners because they're removable.
- Ease — Brushing and flossing are easy and don't require changes with removable aligners.
- Comfort — Clear aligners are smooth and much more comfortable to wear than braces.
The Cons
Clear aligners are not ideal for severe crowding or complex bite concerns. Braces are a better choice for complicated bite corrections.
Compliance is also a concern with clear aligners. They must be worn at least 20-22 hours a day to be effective and should be removed for meals and snacks. They're also at risk of getting lost or thrown away, which you don't have to worry about with braces since they're attached to your teeth.
How Can I Get Started?
If you'd like to learn more about clear aligners and if they're right for your needs, booking an evaluation with one of our dentists is the first step. You can request a visit online or call our team to schedule an appointment.