Hamilton, Ontario, is a very diverse city. This means that the dentists in this area are used to working with patients from different backgrounds. They are friendly and caring towards their patients.
These professionals also understand how difficult it can be for some people to go to a dentist’s office for treatment or an exam. It’s why they do everything they can to ensure that each visit goes smoothly.
The dental care services they provide are also top-notch. Any dentist in Hamilton, Ontario, can offer everything from basic cleaning to placing clear aligners to root canal therapy. If you meet the right Ontario dentist for you, you’ll never need to look for another one again.
If you are considering getting clear aligners from an Ontario dentist, the reasons above should convince you to find one. However, if you want to get these aligners but are unsure what they are exactly, this post is for you.
What Are Clear Aligners?
You’ve probably heard of clear aligners before. They’re the trendy teeth-straightening option that’s been taking over the dental world. Invisalign, a brand manufactured by Align Technology, is an example of a clear aligner.
But how do they work, and what materials are used to make them? How effective are they?
The science behind these teeth aligners is pretty simple. The makers use polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) to make them. They’re essentially transparent thermoplastic sheets that form a mould around your teeth and gradually move them into place.
Despite what others think, it’s not just about aesthetics. Clear aligners work well because they allow your teeth to move more freely than traditional braces. You’ll have an easier time getting them on and keeping them in place than you would with metal brackets or wires.
Clear aligners also offer some other benefits that traditional braces don’t have. You can take them out if you want to eat or drink something hot or cold without worrying about damaging your teeth. They also come in various colours and are less likely to break than braces.
What Dental Issues Can Clear Aligners Correct
Clear aligners can treat various dental issues. However, they are not the right choice for every patient.
If you have crowding, spacing, or crooked teeth, clear aligners can be of help. As they are made of a plastic material customized to fit your mouth, you can wear them comfortably throughout the day. This helps move your teeth into their proper position over time gradually.
Dentists recommend clear aligners for patients between ages 12 and 25 who want a quick treatment option without braces. Your dentist can also recommend them for adults struggling with oral health issues or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
How To Know if Clear Aligners Are for You
The first step in determining whether clear aligners are right for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, they take an in-depth look into your teeth. They will help you determine whether getting clear aligners is your best option.
If they are, your dentist will recommend that you wear them for about 18 months. After which, you will be moving on to traditional dental care methods.
You don’t need to have braces or any other type of orthodontic treatment before receiving clear aligners. However, you mustn’t have any significant dental problems or issues that may worsen by wearing them. For example, if you have gingivitis or periodontal disease, it’s best not to wear them until it’s resolved.
Your dentist may also recommend wearing white strips around your teeth before receiving clear aligners. This is so they can be more accurately aligned during treatment. This is especially helpful if your teeth are crooked or misaligned.
How Effective Are Clear Aligners
The effectiveness of clear aligners depends on whether you follow the instructions given by your dentist. The better you observe instructions, the better the results will be.
After wearing your aligners for around a month, you should see some improvements in your teeth alignment treatment. These developments will continue as you continue to wear them.
However, you should not wear them for more than 24 hours each day. Ideally, you should only wear them for 20 to 22 hours daily, with at least two hours allocated for eating.
Clear Aligners Pros and Cons
There are various benefits and downsides to wearing clear aligners. One of the most significant advantages is that they’re removable. You can take them off at any time you want. This is easier than traditional braces if you have a special event or need to go on vacation.
They let you eat anything while you have them on. This is helpful if you’re a picky eater or have food allergies. They don’t require drilling into your teeth, so they’re less invasive than traditional braces.
The biggest downside of clear aligners is that they take longer than other options. Hence, it’s not always ideal for those who need their teeth fixed quickly. Because they’re removable, they can also fall out if you don’t take care of them properly.
Clear aligners may also not suit you if you have sensitive teeth or gums. They can irritate the soft tissue inside your mouth.
Know What You’re Getting Yourself Into
Clear aligners are excellent at straightening without wearing bulky metal braces. They are comfortable, affordable, and easy to wear. If you want these aligners, you must do your research beforehand. Before deciding, you should know the best types of aligners suitable for your needs.
Once you have decided on the type of aligner you want, you must find an experienced orthodontist. A good one should be able to give you advice on how long it will take for your teeth to straighten out. They would also inform you how much it will cost if additional treatment is needed after your alignment regimen ends.
Like other medical procedures, there are risks involved with getting clear aligners fitted. So you must discuss all possible risks with your dentist before agreeing to proceed with the treatment.
