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As we know at Woodbury Park Dental, a smile can leave an indelible impression. It’s an outward expression of joy, comfort, and self-assurance. The desire for a ‘perfect’ smile has driven people for centuries to seek ways to align their teeth. With the advent of dental technology, this dream is now within reach for most of us. Among the variety of dental appliances available today, one innovation has caught the eye of many who come to our practice: clear Invisalign in Tunbridge Wells. This system offers an appealing alternative to traditional braces, both in aesthetics and in functionality. But what exactly are clear aligners, and how do they work to give you that million-dollar smile?
The science behind the magic
Clear aligners like Invisalign in Tunbridge Wells operate on a relatively straightforward premise. They are custom-made, transparent trays that snugly fit over your teeth. Crafted from medical-grade thermoplastic material, these aligners work to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions over time.
Totally unlike old-school traditional metal braces, which rely on brackets and wires, clear aligners do away with such complexities, offering a smooth surface that doesn’t irritate your gums or cheeks. But that’s just the surface-level explanation. Beneath this simplicity lies a world of precision and advanced technology.
Each aligner set in your treatment plan is engineered to move specific teeth at particular times. The aligners exert a constant, yet gentle, pressure on the teeth, which instigates the bone cells in your jaw to break down on one side and build up on the other. This process is known as ‘bone remodelling’, and it’s the science behind how all orthodontic treatments work, including traditional braces. The minute differences in aligner shapes are calculated using computer-aided design, which takes into account various factors like the alignment of adjacent teeth and the optimal path for tooth movement.
Aesthetic and comfort advantages
Beyond their transparent nature, which offers an aesthetic edge, clear aligners boast several advantages in terms of comfort and ease of use. Firstly, they are removable. This means you can easily take them out before eating or drinking anything other than water, thus reducing the risks of food particles getting trapped. You can also remove them briefly for special occasions or photo sessions, although it’s essential to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day for effective treatment.
Furthermore, because they lack the wires and brackets of traditional braces, clear aligners are easier to clean and maintain. The absence of such elements also means fewer visits to the orthodontist for adjustments, although periodic check-ups are still necessary to monitor your progress.
But are they right for everyone?
As intriguing as Invisalign in Tunbridge Wells clear aligners might be, they are not a universal solution. Generally speaking, they are ideal for correcting mild to moderate orthodontic issues like crowding, spacing, and some bite problems. Severe conditions like large overbites or complex rotations might still require traditional braces for more robust and controlled movement.
It’s crucial to consult our qualified dentist for an in-depth examination and assessment to determine if clear aligners are the right choice for you. They will typically use digital scans or dental impressions to create a detailed 3D model of your teeth, which will then serve as the foundation for your personalised treatment plan.
Taking the next steps
Investing in a set of clear aligners involves both time and financial commitment. Insurance might cover a part of this cost, but it’s essential to verify your coverage details before embarking on this journey.
As for the time involved, treatment duration varies based on individual cases, but it generally ranges from six to 18 months. This window can seem daunting, but it’s essential to remember that a lifetime of perfect smiles awaits you at the end of this journey. The subtle progress you’ll observe as you switch from one aligner to the next serves as a motivational stepping stone, fostering a sense of excitement and anticipation for the final outcome.