Your Guide to Aligners for Teeth Straightening

Aligners are transparent, flexible dental appliances that straighten mild to moderately crooked teeth without using metal bands or wires. Aligners for teeth straightening in Wilmington, North Carolina, can also correct underbites, overbites, and gaps between teeth. Made from medical-grade materials that are practically invisible when worn, aligners offer a discreet, affordable solution for straightening teeth.

Things You Should Know About Aligners

Aligners Straighten Teeth Without Causing Soreness, Bleeding, or Damaging Teeth

Aligners are an effective way to straighten teeth while prioritizing comfort and oral health. Unlike traditional braces, which can cause soreness and discomfort, aligners are designed to gradually shift teeth into the desired position without causing bleeding or damage. This makes them a popular choice for those looking to improve their smile with minimal disruption to their daily lives. With aligners, you can achieve a straighter smile comfortably and safely.

Each Aligner Differs in Shape and Degree of Force on Teeth

Each aligner is uniquely designed, differing in both shape and the degree of force it exerts on the teeth. This variation allows for precise adjustments during the teeth straightening process, ensuring that each tooth moves into its optimal position. Orthodontists can address unique alignment issues and enhance the overall treatment outcome by customizing the aligners to the individual’s dental structure.

Aligners Can Be Removed Anytime

You can remove aligners with your fingers or a designated aligner removal tool. To reinsert aligners, you place them over your teeth and gently push them down until they are positioned correctly. Dentists recommend running your tongue around the edges of the aligners to ensure there are no gaps. Aligners should be removed when you eat to avoid skewing their shape.

Duration and Adjustment of Aligner Treatment

Each set of aligners is usually worn for two weeks before moving on to the next set or until the dentist decides it’s time to change. The duration of treatment varies based on how much adjustment is needed for the teeth. For instance, a minor gap between teeth can be corrected more quickly than issues like overbites or underbites. Most patients typically wear the aligners for six months to two years to achieve the desired results. 

Much Less Conspicuous Than Metal Braces

Although aligners may be advertised as invisible, they are not entirely transparent. Someone would need to stand close to you to notice them. This near transparency means you feel more confident in professional and social settings when you know aligners are hardly noticeable when you speak or smile. In addition, aligners can be quickly and discreetly removed before eating.

Minor Attachments with Aligners

While basic aligner treatment plans may not require attachments depending on the complexity of the treatment, aligners may require enhancement with enamel-colored attachments to help with specific tooth movements. Bonded to the teeth to provide extra grip for aligners, attachments help move teeth into precise positions when adjustments involve significant movement. Reasons for aligner attachments include rotating teeth or shifting teeth up or down.

Call Wilmington Smiles to Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Gregory Garrett at Wilmington Smiles welcomes new and existing patients interested in aligners for teeth straightening in Wilmington, NC. Call (910) 208-6721 to speak to a friendly team member or to make an appointment.

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