Plenty of adults wish their teeth were straighter, picture metal braces and decide it’s too late. It isn’t. Clear aligners have made orthodontic treatment much easier to fit into adult life, and teeth can be moved at any age as long as your teeth and gums are healthy.
How clear aligners work
Aligners are a series of thin, clear plastic trays, each made to fit your teeth closely. Each set is shaped slightly differently from the last, and wearing them in order moves your teeth gradually into position. Treatment is planned from a digital scan or impressions, so you can see the expected result before you start.
What they can treat
Aligners work well for many common problems, including crowding, gaps and mild to moderate bite issues. More complex cases may need fixed braces or a combination of approaches. An orthodontic assessment is the only way to know which suits you.
What wearing them is like
- Wear time: aligners need to be worn for most of the day, typically 20 to 22 hours, so they only come out to eat, to drink anything other than water, and to clean your teeth.
- Comfort: each new set can feel tight for a day or two. That’s a sign they’re working.
- Speech: some people notice a slight lisp for the first few days, which usually fades quickly.
- Cleaning: brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in, and clean the aligners themselves as your orthodontist advises.
Aligners or braces?
Both move teeth well. Aligners are nearly invisible and removable, which makes eating and cleaning easier, but they only work if you wear them for the full time each day. Fixed braces work around the clock without you having to remember anything, and can manage some movements that aligners can’t. Your orthodontist will tell you honestly which suits your teeth and your routine.
How long treatment takes
It depends on how much movement is needed. Simple cases can take several months; others take a year or more. Your orthodontist will give you an estimate based on your own plan.
Check-ups along the way
You’ll have regular appointments so your orthodontist can check progress and give you your next sets of aligners. Keep up your usual dental checkups and cleans too: straighter teeth are only an improvement if they’re healthy as well.
Keeping your new smile
Teeth tend to drift back after treatment, so you’ll be given a retainer to wear afterwards. Wearing it as advised is what keeps the result for the long term.
Talk to our orthodontist
Dr. Tom Ashby specialises in clear aligners for adults and teens. See how orthodontics at Calma Dental works, or book an assessment.