If your teen has overcrowded teeth, gaps, or jaw misalignment problems, their dentist may recommend clear aligners. This revolutionary orthodontic tool is designed to shift teeth into place.
In the world of orthodontic tools, clear aligners offer benefits over traditional methods of tooth alignment. If your teen is just now beginning their journey using clear aligners, it’s important to know how aligners work, how they’re maintained, and what you can do to support your teen while wearing aligners.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional braces. They’re made from clear material that fits over your teen’s teeth. There are many benefits to aligners that distinguish them from traditional braces.
For example, aligners can be easily removed for meals and toothbrushing, and traditional braces cannot. In addition, clear aligners are subtle, while traditional braces are very visible. These important distinctions make clear aligners a preferred option for many teens.
Are Aligners Suitable For All Teens?
Not every orthodontic problem can be fixed with clear aligners. Your teen may be a good candidate for clear aligners if their secondary molars have erupted and they have mild to moderate alignment issues to correct.
A dental evaluation will determine if clear aligners are right for your teen. Talk to the professionals at Weninger Dentistry to find out if clear aligners are right for your child.
How Clear Aligners Can Benefit Your Teen
If the dentist determines that your child is a good candidate for clear aligners, here are some ways that aligners can benefit your teen.
- Boost self-esteem. Clear aligners help straighten your child’s teeth and give them more confidence in their appearance.
- More comfortable, more convenient. Whereas traditional braces can feel rough on the inside of the mouth, clear aligners are more comfortable and convenient.
- Easier oral hygiene. Keeping teeth clean when wearing braces can be challenging, but clear aligners can be removed for cleaning.
- No restrictive diets. Clear aligners are removed for meals, so you don’t have to worry about causing damage to aligners when you chew. This allows you to enjoy the same foods you normally eat.
- Fewer visits to the dentist. Compared to clear aligners, braces require more frequent checkups with the dentist.
How the Process Works
To get clear aligners, your teen will start with a dental consultation. The dentist will create a tailored treatment plan and fit your child for their first set of aligners. You’ll bring your teen back to the dentist regularly to track their treatment plan. When your child has finished their course of clear aligners, the dentist will recommend post-treatment actions (like a retainer).
Supporting Your Teen in Their Journey
Overall, wearing clear aligners can be a positive experience for your teen. Help them have a positive experience by relaying the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.
Clear aligners need regular rinsing and daily cleaning to avoid stains. If they cause discomfort, the dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain medication. Schedule their routine checkups as needed to keep the process moving.
Think your teen can benefit from clear aligners in Tampa? Call Weninger Dentistry to make an appointment for their consultation.