What are Clear Aligners?
Clear Aligners are a novel orthodontic treatment modality where trays are made using 3D scanning, designing and printing technology to move and align teeth rather than traditional wire based braces. They have been around for about 15 years now and the technology is considered mature and advancing rapidly with Invisalign being one of the first to market.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that uses state of the art digital 3D planning and printing and uses a series of custom made removable clear medical grade almost invisible aligners (appliances) to move teeth into a more desired position.
Is Invisalign better than other Aligners?
Invisalign is a brand and the final results of any orthodontic treatment really depend on the dentist performing it. There are now over a 100 different clear aligner manufacturers and they mostly share a similar technology. Basically, the movement of the teeth is planned digitally by your dentist, 3D printing technology is then used to fabricate aligner “trays” that are then delivered to align your teeth.
In short, our team understands the pros and cons of each aligner system and will make treatment recommendations based on your needs and not based on the brand.
Why should you consider Invisalign and Clear Aligners?
Straight teeth improve your smile, the way you feel and see yourself and they also have a positive impact on your oral health. Rotated and tipped teeth can accumulate more plaque and calculus, are more difficult to clean, are more prone to gum disease, and to developing cavities. However, properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, thus less likely to suffer from gum disease, cavities, sensitivity!
As of 2021, Clear Aligners have helped transform 20 million smiles around the world and has transformed the traditional world of orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry.
How long should I wear these?
The comfortable aligners are meant to be worn continually, except for when eating, brushing or flossing. Unlike conventional braces, the advantage of these aligners is that they may be removed, facilitating brushing and flossing, do not require any changes in diet and a minimal change in appearance. They also work faster than traditional braces – most cases can be treated in as little as a year!
Dr. Ramesh at Stouffville SMILES Dentistry is specially trained in Invisalign to help you achieve straight teeth in less time than traditional braces. He is a preferred Invisalign provider.