Clear Aligners – What You Need To Know

Understanding Their Potential and Limitations in Orthodontic Treatment

Dr O Dadashian

Clear aligners have revolutionised orthodontic treatment, offering a nearly invisible alternative to traditional braces. However, like any medical treatment, their success depends on careful patient selection and professional expertise. Let’s explore when clear aligners work best and why professional guidance matters.

When Clear Aligners Work Best

Research shows clear aligners are particularly effective for:

• Mild to moderate tooth misalignment
• Minor spacing issues
• Simple rotations
• Some types of bite correction
• Non-extraction cases
• Adult patients who aren’t still growing

What Clear Aligners Can Predictably Achieve

Scientific studies have shown clear aligners are reliable for:

• Levelling teeth (making them even)
• Tipping teeth into better positions
• Simple tooth rotations
• Closing small gaps
• Improving mild crowding

The Importance of Professional Expertise

Success with clear aligners depends heavily on:

1. Careful Case Selection

• Not every orthodontic case is suitable for aligners
• Your Bromley dentist needs to assess various factors
• Some cases may need traditional braces
• Complex cases might require specialist care

2. Clinical Experience

• Understanding the limitations of aligners
• Predicting potential complications
• Making necessary adjustments
• Monitoring progress effectively

3. Professional Knowledge

• Keeping up with latest techniques
• Understanding biomechanics
• Knowledge of alternative treatments
• Ability to spot potential problems

When Traditional Braces Might Be Better

Clear teeth aligners may not be the best choice for:

• Complex bite issues
• Cases requiring tooth extraction
• Significant rotation of certain teeth
• Major spacing issues
• Growing children
• Cases requiring precise control of tooth movement

The Role of Specialist Support

Having access to specialist orthodontists is crucial because:

• They can advise on complex cases
• Provide backup for unexpected challenges
• Help with treatment planning
• Offer alternative solutions when needed

Treatment Success Factors

For the best results with clear aligners:

• Follow your dentist’s wearing instructions
• Attend regular monitoring appointments
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene
• Have realistic expectations
• Understand treatment limitations

Making Your Decision

When considering clear aligners, remember:

• They’re excellent for specific types of cases
• Professional assessment is crucial
• Success depends on patient compliance
• Regular monitoring is essential
• Some cases may need alternative treatment

The Bottom Line

Clear aligners can be an excellent choice for many patients, but success depends on:

• Proper case selection
• Professional expertise
• Regular monitoring
• Patient compliance
• Access to specialist support when needed

While clear aligners offer a modern solution to orthodontic treatment, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Working with experienced professionals who can properly assess your case and have access to specialist support when needed ensures the best possible outcome for your smile.

References:

1. Papadimitriou A, Mousoulea S, Gkantidis N, Kloukos D. Clinical effectiveness of Invisalign® orthodontic treatment: a systematic review. Prog Orthod. 2018;19(1):37.

2. Jaber ST, Hajeer MY, Sultan K. Treatment Effectiveness of Clear Aligners in Correcting Complicated and Severe Malocclusion Cases Compared to Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2023;15(4):e38311.

3. Shrivastava A, Mohanty P, Dash BP, Jena S, Sahoo N. Proficiency of Clear Aligner Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus. 2023;15(9):e45072.