When it comes to orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign in Kings Hill, patients have to consider important factors such as comfort when wearing the teeth-straightening device, maintenance of device and effectiveness of treatment. When compared to traditional fixed dental braces, clear plastic aligner trays find more favour with patients. We have discovered that patients find the fact that the aligner trays are scarcely discernible significantly influential, as is the brief period allowed for the trays to be removed before eating or cleaning teeth.
- It is difficult to tell if a patient is wearing aligner trays
The main difference between these clear braces and traditional options is that they are made from plastic and not metal. It is the exclusive purpose-made thermoplastic material that gives the trays their ‘invisible’ characteristic. To tell if someone is wearing these aligners, you would have to get really close to take a look at their teeth.
- The freedom to eat favourite foods
A complaint of traditional orthodontic devices is that patients have to stay away from particular foods that are sticky, chewy or hard. If these food types are a favourite, it can be a challenge for patients with fixed braces. With Invisalign in Kings Hill clear plastic aligners can be removed before eating so these food restrictions need not apply. The only factor that comes into play is that the trays should only be removed for a limited time so how long you have for meals is a consideration, not what you eat.
- Fewer dental visits required
Due to their unique design, aligners don’t need a dental practitioner to adjust them as fixed braces do. We do require our patients to visit our dental practice (on average this is every six weeks), but these visits are necessary to determine the progress of treatment. There is no need for adjustments to be made as patients wear a series of custom-made trays to reposition teeth. Our dental practitioner will advise on how often a patient will have to change trays based on their individual situation.
An important part of any orthodontic or cosmetic dental treatment is how well a patient is able to look after the dental device (braces, teeth implants, veneers and crowns) as well as their oral health. Patients opting for the aligner trays system will wear on average between 12 to 30 series of trays. Being able to remove the aligner trays to clean the mouth does make brushing and flossing a lot easier. To keep their orthodontic goals on track, patients are urged to take care of their aligners using the following useful tips:
- Clean your trays properly
Trays need thorough cleaning just as teeth and gums do. Bacteria can build up in trays just as they can in the mouth. Trays can be cleaned by soaking them in a dentist-approved soaking solution. Patients should get a separate toothbrush (don’t use the same one used to brush teeth) to be used solely to brush the trays. Regular rinsing with warm water every time the trays are removed is also recommended.
- Keep trays away from heat
The medical-grade plastic used in aligner trays are durable but should not be exposed to heat. High temperatures can cause damage to the plastic material.
- Place trays in a secure storage container when not wearing them
Even though patients are allowed to remove trays for just a short period each day, the trays should still be kept in a special container. This will prevent them from becoming damaged and ensure they retain their shape.
Interested in straightening misaligned teeth and want to know if clear aligners are the treatment for you? Schedule a consultation with a dental practitioner at One Smile Oral Care today.