What are teeth aligners?

Teeth aligners are a modern version of braces that help align the teeth and correct the bite in the mouth. Braces are brackets that are connected with the help of the wire. Over time, the wire is tightened to help move the teeth in the right position. Teeth aligners, on the other hand, are custom-made mouthpieces. These mouthpieces slide over your teeth and should fit your teeth right. The aligner needs to be changed every few weeks to ensure that they correct your teeth appropriately.

How do teeth aligners work?

The process is relatively simple. Once the orthodontist or the dentist has confirmed the method to correct your bite, they will measure your teeth. They will create a mouthpiece made of acrylic or clear material using these measurements. This mouthpiece should fit tightly over your teeth. Getting clear aligners will require you to get several adjustments over the course of the correction. Fittings will be done every two to three weeks for maximum effect.

Who can get teeth aligners?

Teeth aligners are not for everyone. Your dentist or orthodontist will decide if you need to get aligners or braces. The individual’s age and their bite play an important role in deciding if the individual needs aligners or braces. Aligners are perfect for teens and adults but not suitable for children. Typically, teeth aligners are used when there are mild or moderate crowding issues or smaller spacing issues. Individuals who have severe dental issues will require complex treatment.

How long do aligners take to work?

Correcting the bite with teeth aligners will vary from person to person, depending on how they need to move or rotate their teeth. If your bite is off, it will take much longer. Typically, treatment lasts anywhere between 10 to 24 months. But if someone has had braces before, the treatment will take barely 10 weeks.

Why should you get teeth aligners?

A lot of individuals think that getting braces or teeth aligners is all about getting the perfect smile. But that’s not true. Braces and teeth aligners are mainly used to correct the bite of an individual. Correcting crooked and misaligned teeth helps promote overall oral health and helps protect your teeth. Of course, you can also get a good smile out of it.

How much do teeth aligners cost?

Treatment by aligners is usually much more expensive than traditional braces. Your orthodontist or dentist usually sets the costs for the teeth aligners. Generally, they cost anywhere between $5,000 and $6,000. If you were to use traditional braces, the general cost of the complete orthodontic treatment would be approximately $5,300 for young children and adolescents and around $5,600 for adults.