Clear aligners are changing the approach to orthodontic treatment, with many patients opting for them. In fact, the clear aligner market is estimated to experience a compound annual growth rate of about 15% from 2025 to 2032. This growth projection is not surprising, considering the positive results they deliver.
For one, they may be an effective and discreet way to straighten the teeth without traditional braces. Are you considering getting clear aligners installed on your teeth? Schedule a consultation at Studio Smiles NYC with our experienced dentist to begin your journey toward achieving a beautiful smile. We are located in the heart of Manhattan on Park Ave.
If you want to learn more about how the clear aligner treatment works, this post offers a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process, from the first consultation to the procedure and the final result.
What is Clear Aligner Treatment?
Before going into the details of how clear aligner therapy works, let’s talk about what a clear aligner really is. Clear aligners are thin, transparent trays installed on the teeth to help the teeth gently shift into position.
They are made with medical-grade plastic and sit tightly on your teeth to align them to the right position. They are a possible alternative to metal braces because you do not have to worry about brackets or wires, and they sit discreetly on your teeth without anyone knowing.
Does Clear Aligner Therapy Actually Work?
Many patients find it works well. In fact, there are over 14 million patients across the world who have had Invisalign, and this is a testament to how well it works. Indeed, it can be an effective way of treating different dental issues, especially when customized aligners fit correctly and under the guidance of a licensed and experienced dental professional, like our dentists at Studio Smiles NYC.
What Age is too late for Invisalign Clear Aligners?
Generally, there is no age limit for Invisalign aligners. A lot of adults in their 50s and beyond often choose Invisalign treatment to correct any alignment issues and improve their smile. In fact, many people go through the treatment in their 50s and 60s to correct long-standing dental issues or to treat changes in their teeth caused by aging.
However, while no age is too late for clear aligner treatment, it is important to have healthy gums and teeth before getting a clear aligner. Untreated cavities, gum disease, or major bone loss around the teeth may make you ineligible for the Invisalign treatment.
Do Dentists Recommend Clear Aligners?
Orthodontists or dentists are actually the qualified ones who determine if Invisalign aligners are right for you. However, they are not for everyone. For instance, before our dentist at Studio Smiles NYC can recommend Invisalign treatment, they will look at your health and specific needs.
They will also carry out dental checks and X-rays to determine if you are eligible for Invisalign clear aligners. Book a consultation with our dentist today to discuss your eligibility.
What are the Disadvantages of Clear Aligner Therapy?
There are quite a few drawbacks that might make you think twice about visiting an Invisalign trained doctor, and knowing these will help you make an informed decision.
· Invisalign Treatment Cost
While Invisalign treatment effectiveness may be higher than traditional braces, it is more costly. However, some dentists may offer zero-interest credit to allow you to spread the treatment cost over a period. You can talk to our team at Studio Smiles NYC to see if you are eligible for this option.
· 20-22 Hours of Use Every Day
While you can remove your clear aligner if necessary, it is generally recommended to wear them for a minimum of 20-22 hours daily, depending on the Invisalign trained doctor’s advice. It is recommended that you follow our dentist’s advice so you can achieve the best results while avoiding frequent removal.
· Speech Difficulty during Use
After your clear aligner has been installed, you might find it temporarily difficult to talk, at least for a couple of days. Therefore, if you have to attend a seminar or meeting where you need to speak, we recommend scheduling your appointment with our dentists at Studio Smiles NYC only after the event. Only schedule an appointment when you know you have a few weeks free.
· Requires Care in Placement and Removal
While you can remove and replace your clear aligners whenever you want, you still need to exercise caution when doing so. When you remove or replace it incorrectly, it can shift the position of your teeth, and this can affect the Invisalign treatment effectiveness in the long run.
· Not Ideal when Treating Malocclusion (Bad Bites)
Malocclusions are sometimes very complex, and clear aligner therapy may not be suitable for all cases. For this, traditional braces are often recommended as they are typically more suitable in treating such cases.
Why Choose Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign treatment is can be an effective approach to correcting tooth alignment. With this treatment, you can treat different types of misaligned teeth issues, including crossbite, underbite, overbite, tooth spacing, crowded teeth, and other misaligned teeth issues. Some unique advantages that make the clear aligner a good choice are:
· They are Discreet
Unlike other orthodontic treatments where arch-wires and brackets are very visible, Invisalign treatment is discreet. The clear aligner itself is made of transparent material, which makes it invisible. With this, users feel more comfortable when speaking, smiling, or even simply opening their mouths.
· Easy to Brush Your Teeth
Brushing with traditional braces is difficult because of the arch-wires and brackets. This can increase the rate at which plaque builds up and teeth decay. However, since you can easily remove Invisalign aligners, cleaning your teeth is easy. All you need to follow are simple care tips.
· Easy to Install
An Invisalign trained doctor can easily set up your clear aligner and get you started with straightening your teeth. You do not have to worry about much discomfort or pain during use. The best part is that when your teeth become aligned, you can enjoy your beautiful smile with happiness and full confidence.
· Minimal Dietary Restrictions with Advanced Clear Aligners
Unlike with conventional edgewise braces, where you have many dietary restrictions and cannot eat hard foods, Invisalign treatment has very few restrictions on eating since the clear aligner is removable. You can simply remove them when you want to eat them, brush your teeth after eating, and replace them.
· Shorter Treatment Time with an Invisalign Trained Doctor
The required time to complete your Invisalign treatment is shorter compared to traditional brackets. Treatment times vary depending on individual cases, but many patients complete Invisalign within 12-18 months, while other conventional fixed appliances can take between 15 and 24 months.
How Does Clear Aligner Therapy Work?
Invisalign clear aligners treatment process offers a discreet alternative to metal braces. Patients often prefer Invisalign aligners because they are discreet and invisible. This is why they are a great choice for teens unlike braces. So, how does a clear aligner work?
Step 1 – Consultation and Evaluation in Between
Your Invisalign process typically begins with a consultation with a licensed and experienced dentist like the team at Studio Smiles NYC. During your appointment, our doctor will discuss your goals and examine your teeth. They may also take photos, X-rays, and impressions to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Step 2 – Digital Mapping
Next, our orthodontist will create a 3D digital model of your teeth using advanced software. This is to enable them to plan the specific movements required to achieve the desired alignment. While they are taking the digital mapping, you can see the virtual representation of the changes in your teeth during the treatment.
Step 3 – Creating Customized Aligners
When your treatment plan has been concluded, the lab will fabricate your customized aligners based on the impression taken. These aligners are made using a transparent BPA-free plastic designed to offer comfort and are discreet when worn.
Step 4 – Placement of the Clear Aligner
When your custom aligners are ready, you will receive a call from our dentist to come in for the placement. You will get a series of aligners, and you are to wear each of them for about ten days. You will wear them day and night, and only remove them when you want to eat, drink, and floss. As you continue through the series, your teeth start moving into the desired positions.
Our orthodontist will recommend that you come in for periodic check-ups to monitor your progress. Depending on your plan, the appointments could be every six to eight weeks, and during your visit, adjustments can be made if necessary.
When your treatment is complete, the dentists will recommend that you use a retainer to maintain the newly aligned teeth. It is recommended that you wear the retainers at night to prevent your teeth from moving back to their earlier positions.
How to Care for Your Clear Aligners
Visiting an angle orthodontist for straightening teeth is one thing; maintaining the treatment results is another. So, now that you are done with the unsightly braces and have embraced align technology, how do you care for your aligners?
The good news is that the maintenance requirements are not burdensome. The following are the simple ways to maintain clean, clear aligners:
- Rinse your aligners every time you remove them before placing them back.
- Use a soft toothbrush to brush them. Avoid abrasive toothpaste while wearing your aligners.
- To keep odors away, regularly soak them in cleaning crystals and dry them before replacing them.
- Avoid exposing your aligners excessively to hot water, as this can make them warped.
Final Thoughts
Align technology has influenced orthodontic treatment. It offers a discreet and comfortable way for patients to achieve straighter teeth and a smile. While it is not for everyone, removable aligners may be an effective option for straightening teeth without the stress of wearing braces.
Are you considering getting advanced clear aligners? Schedule a consultation with our dentist at Studio Smiles NYC to discuss your eligibility for the Align technology.