Benefits Of Clear Aligners

Explaining The Benefits Of Clear Aligners – Are They Right For You? 

Clear aligners like Invisalign are a great alternative to braces. But what are their benefits, and why should you choose clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces? In this blog from Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics, we’ll discuss a few of the benefits provided by this popular braces alternative. 

1. Clear Aligners Are Invisible And Don’t Affect Speech

Particularly in older patients, the appearance of braces can cause self-consciousness. There’s an unfortunate social stigma associated with braces, despite their importance for a straight, healthy smile.

Clear aligners allow patients to avoid this. They are totally invisible when worn, and they won’t affect your speech, either. If you’re worried about how braces may look, clear aligners are a great alternative. 

2. You Can Remove Clear Aligners To Eat And To Clean Your Teeth

With braces, you’ll need to follow some dietary restrictions to avoid damaging or dislodging the metal brackets, wires, elastics, and other components of your braces. It can also be harder to clean around your teeth.

In contrast, clear aligners are removable. You can just take them out to eat and drink, and to brush and floss. This makes them a lot more convenient. They can even be removed to play sports and musical instruments, which may make clear aligners more suitable for your lifestyle. 

3. Clear Aligners Are More Comfortable Than Braces

You get used to them eventually, but braces can poke and irritate your lips, gums, and tongue. The metal components used for braces can be quite sharp and may cause discomfort. 

Clear aligners, on the other hand, are made of smooth plastic. There are no metal components that will irritate your mouth or cause discomfort. They tend to move teeth a bit more gradually than braces, too, so this also enhances comfort during treatment. 

4. Fewer Office Visits Are Needed For Clear Aligner Treatment

Usually, you’ll visit your Wyomissing orthodontist about every 4-8 weeks to get a few new sets of aligners, and to have your progress checked. This only takes a few minutes. In contrast, braces may need to be adjusted much more frequently, and appointments take longer. If you have a busy schedule, it may be easier to get treatment with clear aligners.

5. Clear Aligners Often Offer Faster Results Than Braces

The average treatment time for clear aligners is about 1 year. Braces usually require at least 12-18 months of treatment. While the treatment time for both methods of orthodontia may vary depending on your specific needs, clear aligners generally offer faster results if you’re a good candidate for both braces and aligners. 

Interested In Clear Aligners In Wyomissing? Come And See Dr. Hottenstein!

At Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics, Dr. Hottenstein offers both clear aligners and traditional braces. Not sure which treatment is right for you? Interested in more information about orthodontics? We’re here to help. Contact us online or call today at (484) 258-2299 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hottenstein, get the answers you need, and start your journey toward a straighter, healthier smile in Wyomissing.