If you are not happy with the alignment of your teeth, you could be interested in the idea of wearing clear braces. Although you might want to do what you can to improve the look of your smile, you might not like the idea of wearing clunky, metal braces. These are some of the things that you might want to know about clear braces; then, you can determine if they are right for you, and you can have a better idea of what to expect during your orthodontic treatment.
1. They Aren't Actually Braces At All
First of all, you should know that clear braces are not actually braces at all. With this type of orthodontic treatment, you will wear clear aligners to shift your teeth and improve your smile. You will actually need to put your own aligners in and take them out on a daily basis.
2. It's Important to Stick to Your Treatment
With traditional braces, your orthodontist does most of the work throughout the course of the treatment. He or she puts your braces in, tightens them and eventually removes them. If you choose clear aligners, however, you will need to participate in the process. For example, you will be required to change aligners every few weeks so that you can continue with your treatment. You will need to take out your own aligners and clean them yourselves on a regular basis. You will also need to make sure that you keep your aligners in for the vast majority of the day, which can be hard to do when they are so easy to remove. If you want the best possible results from your clear aligners, it is important to educate yourself about the treatment process and to make sure that you stick to that process. Although this can be challenging, you will probably find that it's worth it when you're able to get the smile that you want.
3. It Doesn't Work For All Orthodontic Issues
Although clear aligners have many benefits, it is important to understand that they are not for everyone. Although clear aligners can help with a host of different orthodontic issues, they aren't always a good option for those who have more serious alignment or bite issues. Additionally, you will generally need to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy before starting this treatment. Luckily, your dentist or orthodontist should be able to provide you with more guidance.