Enjoying Better Alignment with Clear Braces
April 1, 2019
When you hear the word “braces” you probably think of metal orthodontics, such as brackets and arch wires. However, we offer people in Kansas City, MO, an alternative. To help address misalignment, we may discuss orthodontic treatment with cosmetic orthodontics, such as clear braces. How do these clear and comfortable aligners address a smile’s alignment?
What Risks Does Misalignment Pose?
Why should you make addressing your smile’s alignment a priority? Simply put, when we have crooked and crowded teeth, our smile’s health suffers. For example, even if you brush and floss, food particles could remain trapped between your teeth. Over time, this leads to a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, your jaw joints, which control the actions needed to eat and speak, may undergo excessive strain due to poor alignment. Soon, TMJ disorder and/or bruxism could develop, causing painful headaches, popping in the jaw, toothaches, and jaw pain, among other uncomfortable symptoms. When you undergo orthodontic treatment, you help safeguard your smile from these serious issues.
How Do Clear Braces Work?
Typically, misalignment will be treated with metal braces. Metal brackets will be placed onto the front of the teeth and connected with an arch wire. The dentist then adjusts the tension to reposition the teeth. Patients must endure metal brackets for up to two years. With clear braces, we instead take detailed digital impression of your smile, which we use to design and fabricate a series of aligners from a BPA-free plastic material. The clear aligners will be worn daily for between 20 and 23 hours, with patients upgrading to the next set after about two weeks. This gradually and gently repositions your teeth, often in as little as one year.
Can I Remove Them?
Yes! As long as you wear them for the amount of time the dentist recommends, you can remove them occasionally throughout the day. For example, you take out your aligners before you eat, which means you don’t have to alter you diet as you would with metal braces. You also have an easier time brushing and flossing your teeth after removing your orthodontic aligner. Finally, they can be taken out for special occasions, such as dates or gradations. If you have any questions about clear braces, or if you’re ready to schedule a consultation to see if they’re right for your smile, then contact our team today.
Do You Want to Learn More About Clear Orthodontics?
Our team wants to help you enjoy a more even and healthy smile. To learn more about our clear and comfortable aligners, schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018. Let 2019 be the year you obtain a beautiful smile!