How Do Aligners Straighten Teeth?

Aligners help straighten the teeth using a series of customized trays specifically made for each patient. They work much like braces since they move the misaligned teeth into position. 

Clear Invisalign® aligners are removable and convenient, and they help straighten teeth while being less noticeable than traditional braces. Manufacturers make the aligners from clear, flexible plastic, and users switch the trays every two weeks. It is vital to understand how aligners straighten teeth. 

Scanning the Teeth

The first step in getting aligners will involve scanning the teeth. The scanning helps create custom aligners that fit perfectly. Where necessary, the dentist or orthodontist may place small, clear or tooth-colored attachments on specific teeth. 

The attachments connect to the aligners to give them extra strength. They work as pressure points and allow the aligners to grip the teeth for better shifting.

Orthodontic Elastics

Elastics that dentists use during orthodontic treatment include Invisalign. The elastics or rubber bands draw the teeth into proper alignment. The tiny bands help correct the bite alignment on both the top and bottom teeth. 

The elastics hook onto the attachments, and the number required will vary depending on the patient. The specific details are customized to fit the patient’s treatment program. 

Series of Customized Trays

The patient will receive a series of trays and wear each tray for one or two weeks. The patient should wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day and only remove them for eating or cleaning. 

Each tray will move the teeth a few millimeters, taking 12 to 18 months to complete treatment. It usually takes 25 trays to move the teeth to the ideal position, and you can see the gradual movement as each tray moves the teeth into their best place.

Interproximal Reduction

In some cases, the patient may require an interproximal reduction (IPR) procedure. This process involves the creation of small spaces between teeth pairs. The spaces allow for the movement of teeth during the treatment process. 

IPR will involve resizing or reshaping specific teeth to reduce crowding and eliminate black triangles. The procedure is minimally invasive and can eliminate the need for tooth extraction. 

Wearing a Retainer

Aligners can help effectively fix misaligned teeth as each set adjusts the teeth gradually. They help move the teeth into the desired position. After using the aligners, you need to wear a retainer to keep the teeth from moving back to the original spot. 

Retainers are vital for any teeth-straightening procedure. Follow the orthodontist’s instructions to ensure the best results and proper maintenance. 

Proper teeth alignment is essential for maintaining good dental health. Properly aligned teeth make it easy to clean or care for the teeth. Proper alignment also makes it easier to chew well and avoid teeth grinding. Invisible aligners can straighten teeth, resulting in healthier teeth and gums and a better smile. 

Contact Us

To find out how aligners straighten teeth, visit Align Dental at our office in Boston, Massachusetts. You can call (617) 340-5300 today to schedule an appointment.