Adolescence is a transformative period, both physically and emotionally. Along with the changes in their bodies,
teenagers often face the challenge of dental misalignment, which can impact their oral health and self-confidence.
Understanding Teeth Misalignment
Teeth misalignment, or malocclusion, is a common dental issue that affects a significant number of adolescents. It
can manifest as crowded, crooked, or protruding teeth, as well as issues like overbite, underbite, crossbite, or
open bite. Not only can misaligned teeth affect the aesthetics of a teenager's smile, but they can also impact their
oral health. Malocclusion can make proper oral hygiene more challenging, leading to an increased risk of tooth
decay, gum disease, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are a modern teeth straightening solution that offers an effective alternative to traditional braces.
Unlike metal braces, clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them an attractive choice for teenagers
concerned about their appearance during the treatment process. Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays that
are worn over the teeth. They gradually shift the teeth into the desired position, correcting the alignment issues.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Aesthetics: Clear aligners are made of transparent plastic, allowing teenagers to undergo the dental
treatment without the visual impact of traditional braces. This can significantly boost their self-confidence and
reduce self-consciousness
Removability:Clear aligners can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. This feature allows
adolescents to maintain their oral hygiene routine with ease, reducing the risk of dental issues during treatment.
Comfort: Unlike metal brackets and wires, clear aligners have smooth edges and do not cause irritation or
discomfort to the soft tissues of the mouth. They provide a more comfortable experience for adolescents throughout
their treatment.
Convenience: Clear aligners require fewer to no visits to the orthodontist compared to braces. The aligners
are typically provided in sets, and teenagers can switch to the next set at home by themselves.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Assessment: The journey with clear aligners starts with online
assessment. Once the survey is completed, our dental experts will determine whether you’re the right
candidate for the treatment or not.
Customization: After the assessment, you’ll be asked to provide dental molds of your teeth. These impressions
serve as the basis for creating a series of custom-made aligners.
Treatment Plan:Using specialized 3D software, we will map out the movement of your teeth throughout the
treatment process. Then a series of aligners will be generated that will gradually shift the teeth into the desired
position
Wearing the Aligners: You will receive a set of aligners and wear each one for a specific duration, typically
two weeks. They must wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day for the treatment to be effective.
Completion and Retention:Once the treatment is complete, you will transition to a retainer to maintain the
new alignment of their teeth. Retainers are typically worn for a specified period to avoid any relapse.
Considerations and Precautions
Commitment:Wearing clear aligners requires discipline and commitment. You must diligently follow the
orthodontist's instructions and wear the aligners for the recommended duration each day.
Oral Hygiene:Good oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing after every meal, are essential
during clear aligner treatment. Adolescents must clean their aligners regularly and avoid consuming sugary or
staining foods and drinks.
Treatment Duration:The duration of clear aligner treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case. On
average, the treatment can last between 6 to 8 months.
Compliance: The success of clear aligner treatment depends on your compliance with wearing the aligners as
instructed. Failure to wear them consistently may prolong the treatment duration and compromise the desired outcome.
Conclusion
We understand that adolescents have a lot going in their lives. From school to sports, to family activities and fun
excursions they’ve already got their plate full. That's why Smilepath provides a convenient at home teeth
straightening solution.
FAQs
Are clear aligners noticeable when worn?
No, clear aligners are designed to be virtually invisible. They are made of transparent plastic, allowing them to blend with the natural color of your teeth.
What happens if a clear aligner is lost or damaged?
If a clear aligner is lost or damaged, it's important to contact your provider as soon as possible. They will advise you on the best course of action, which may involve moving to the next aligner in the series or obtaining a replacement aligner.
