I was talking with the mother of one of our teen orthodontic patients the other day and she asked me this question. It surprised me and made me realize that we have not done a good enough job informing people about the many options that we offer here at Coleman Orthodontics to create life-changing smiles.
In recent years, the field of orthodontics has witnessed a revolutionary transformation with the introduction of aligner treatment. In this blog, I’ll share with you what I feel is the most valuable information to consider with regard to aligners and their use in orthodontic treatment.
The Rise of Aligner Treatment:
Invisalign® was the first and only orthodontic company to offer aligner treatment for many years. Coleman Orthodontics was one of the first orthodontic practices in this area to use aligners over 20 years ago. Today, most orthodontic companies have a line of aligners that they offer. The rise of aligner treatment represents a shift towards a more patient-friendly and aesthetically pleasing solution. Aligners, made from clear plastic, offer an invisible alternative to metal braces, making them a popular choice for both late-teen orthodontics and adults.
How Aligners Work:
Aligners work by gradually shifting teeth into their desired position using a series of custom-made, removable trays (aligners). Each tray is worn for a specified period, typically one to two weeks, before progressing to the next one. This sequential process ensures a gentle and consistent adjustment, reducing discomfort compared to the periodic tightening associated with traditional braces.
Advantages of Aligner Treatment:
Aesthetics: One of the primary advantages of aligners is their discreet appearance. Unlike traditional braces, aligners are invisible, allowing individuals to undergo orthodontic treatment without feeling self-conscious about their smile.
Comfort: Aligners are made from smooth, comfortable materials, eliminating the discomfort often associated with metal braces. There are no wires or brackets to irritate the mouth, making the treatment experience more pleasant.
Removability: Aligners can be removed for eating, brushing and flossing. This not only promotes better oral hygiene but also allows individuals to enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions.
Shorter Treatment Time: In some cases, aligner treatment may lead to shorter overall treatment times compared to traditional braces. This, coupled with fewer required office visits, makes aligners a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.
“I Can Just Order My Aligners On The Internet”:
Yes, you could do this if you wanted. But keep in mind, if you do seek out this “direct to consumer” approach to aligner treatment, you won’t have a dedicated orthodontist planning out your treatment or monitoring your results and making changes along the way as needed. Aligner treatment is still orthodontic treatment. It is complicated to plan and often the teeth don’t move exactly according to that plan. Orthodontists are specifically trained to keep treatments on track through regular office appointments and to know when a course correction is necessary. Trust your aligner treatment and smile to an orthodontist… it’s what we do all day, every day!
My answer to that patient’s mother that day was, “Yes! We definitely provide aligner treatment and have been doing so for over 20 years.” Before leaving the office that day, she made an appointment for herself and is now in the middle of her aligner smile transformation. As technology and materials improve, we are treating more and more patients with aligners in our office than ever before. I think we’ll find that as people continue to realize the benefits of a confident smile and learn that it can be achieved with an alternative to braces, aligner treatment will continue to grow in popularity for many years to come. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, why not join the countless individuals already embracing this transformative approach to a straighter, more attractive smile? Call our office at 801-614-9090 to schedule a free consultation!
Keep Smiling,
Dr. Coleman