Clear aligners, also known as "invisible braces", or "clear braces" use a series of custom-made clear plastic trays to straighten your teeth over time. With brands like Invisalign® and ClearCorrect® leading the market, clear aligners are popular for those seeking a more discreet orthodontic solution.
Bite:
Difficult to achieve a perfect bite
Treatment:
Orthodontist not in complete control of tooth movement because patient can remove aligner
Visibility:
Almost invisible. Can be removed on special occasions.
Movement:
Limited ability to move teeth. More suitable for small and intermediate corrections.
Eating:
No restrictions because they can be removed before eating
Speech:
Takes longer to improve speech.
Colour:
Clear plastic
More about clear aligners and braces
Clear aligners represent a recent and trendy innovation within the realm of orthodontic treatment, a trend that has gained significant traction in South Africa over the past few years. These aligners have revolutionised orthodontics by providing an inconspicuous alternative to traditional braces, avoiding brackets, bands, or wires. In particular, Invisalign has emerged as a preeminent player in clear aligner technology, often serving as a generic term to describe this transformative approach. It is renowned for utilising cutting-edge and widely acclaimed clear aligner technology.
The modus operandi of clear aligners, such as Invisalign, involves a sequential series of customised plastic trays reminiscent of slim sports mouth guards gently guiding misaligned teeth towards their correct positions. These trays discreetly rest over the teeth, are entirely removable, and remain virtually invisible to observers.
Clear aligners have proven highly effective, particularly for individuals in South Africa who previously underwent orthodontic treatment in their youth and now require minor adjustments. They are equally suitable for patients with mild to moderate dental concerns, including misalignment, significant overbites, absence of jaw alignment issues, or anterior tooth gaps, commonly referred to as open bite. To maximise the efficacy of Invisalign, patients must diligently wear the trays as frequently as possible. However, it is imperative to acknowledge that the clear aligner system does have notable limitations when addressing intricate orthodontic challenges or comprehensive treatment regimens.
For complex cases, such as those with challenging orthodontic issues, a combination of clear aligners and lingual braces placed behind the teeth can present a distinctive and aesthetically pleasing treatment solution in South Africa. This tailored approach ensures patients receive the most suitable and effective orthodontic care for their needs.
Advantages
Enhanced Aesthetics: Clear aligners are visually appealing due to their transparent appearance, making them a discreet orthodontic option.
Removability: They can be easily removed when necessary, offering convenience for eating, special occasions, or oral hygiene routines.
Improved Oral Hygiene: Clear aligners allow for more straightforward brushing and flossing, promoting better oral health throughout the treatment.
Accelerated Treatment: In some instances, clear aligners can achieve faster results than traditional braces, especially for limited orthodontic corrections.
Reduced Dental Visits: Fewer visits to the dentist or orthodontist are required during clear aligner treatment, contributing to convenience.
Shorter Appointments: Appointments for clear aligner adjustments are typically shorter than those for traditional braces.
Minimal Discomfort: Clear aligners are generally more comfortable than metal braces, as they do not cause the same pain or discomfort.
Disadvantages
Limited Applicability: Clear aligners may not be suitable for addressing all types of orthodontic issues, requiring a case-by-case evaluation by an orthodontic specialist.
Removal for Eating and Drinking: Clear aligners must be removed before consuming dark liquids or eating to prevent staining and bacterial growth, which may necessitate frequent removal and reinsertion.
Thorough Cleaning Required: Maintaining the clarity and invisibility of aligners demands diligent cleaning routines to prevent discolouration.
Strict Wear Schedule: Clear aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours daily to achieve optimal results; failure to do so may compromise treatment effectiveness.
Tooth Soreness: Removal of aligners can occasionally lead to tooth soreness, which may limit food choices during the initial adjustment period.