There are different types of clear aligners available for interested and qualified orthodontic patients, but what many people discover is that customized aligners are the most user-friendly path to take. If you have a unique treatment plan or appreciate knowing you can get your hands on aligners with little wait time, this type of orthodontic treatment may be just right for you. Here are some fast facts to explains the ins and outs of customized aligners.
1. Aligners are made in-house.
Three cheers for constantly advancing technology! Your orthodontist’s customized aligners are made right in the office using a 3D printer. That means you get your trays immediately and they are tweaked to fit perfectly.
2. Every tray is personalized.
The work of customized aligners stays true to its name – they are made specifically for each unique patient. There is no such thing as one-size-fits-all in orthodontia and the trays are designed to target every tooth crown and root so they move efficiently into their proper positions.
3. Aligners work for complex treatment.
Some patients have complex orthodontic treatment plans – many have even been told that their bite and alignment problems cannot be corrected without surgery. While some patients do fit into this category, many find success through a combination of treatments, including a hybrid of customized aligners and metal braces.
4. Customization speeds up treatment.
In most types of clear aligner treatments, like Invisalign, patients must wait for a dental lab to create their trays then ship them to the orthodontist. When you give the orthodontist the green light for your treatment, the customized aligners are created in-office. The treatment planning software makes it possible to print the trays immediately.
5. Broken, lost, or damaged aligners are not the end of the world.
If you lose or damage a tray (let’s hope not!), there is little time lost when waiting for a replacement, thanks to the in-house 3D printing technology. The only downtime is the patient calling the orthodontist to be seen and waiting at the office for a new aligner to be created.
6. Expect typical treatment time.
The 3D-printed aligners certainly speed up the practical side of this orthodontic treatment, but the wearing of the trays is typical across the board. Average aligner wear time is about 12 months, which each set of trays being switched out every two weeks or so. These numbers vary, of course, depending on the misalignment or bite problems being corrected and the number of aligners that must be worn to complete the treatment.
7. You have a say in the braces you choose.
Dr. Mariana will conduct an examination of your mouth and review digital images and x-rays to make treatment recommendations. Express your desire for trays or conventional braces up front but be open to customized aligners. You might discover that this innovation is just what you need. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
