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Aligners
Aligners are often used as an alternative to traditional braces. Here you can find out everything you need to know about how aligner treatment works, how long it takes and the benefits.
Author
Dr. Fabian von Rom
Date
Estimated reading time
approx. 3 Min
Aligners
Contents
This is an aligner
Aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces. They are transparent plastic splints that help to gradually move the teeth. Aligners are made individually for each patient. They are removable and almost invisible. This makes aligner treatment particularly comfortable compared to fixed braces. New clear aligners are inserted every 1-2 weeks until the desired tooth position is achieved.
The number of aligners required depends on the extent of the planned tooth movement and therefore varies from case to case. The clear aligners are either produced in the practice’s own laboratory using 3D scanning and 3D printing or the orthodontist works with an external aligner manufacturer.
How aligners work
Aligner therapy is divided into small steps. In each step, an aligner splint is produced that differs slightly from the previous one. This allows the teeth to gradually move into the correct position when the aligners are changed. The transparent splint exerts gentle pressure on the teeth, which leads to the desired tooth movement. Attachments are often used to improve the transfer of force to the teeth. These are not tooth-colored plastic knobs that are attached to some teeth for the duration of the aligner treatment.
Duration of aligner therapy
The duration of treatment with aligners is individual. The extent of the desired tooth movement determines the number of aligner splints. Each aligner must be worn for 1-2 weeks. This results in the individual treatment duration. By consistently adhering to the wearing time of 22 hours a day, the total treatment duration can be positively influenced.
When aligner therapy makes sense
Transparent aligners are particularly suitable for correcting mild to moderate malocclusions and crowding. They are used as part of orthodontic treatment for children, adolescents and adults. In cases of mild to moderate misalignment of the teeth, the benefits of aligner therapy outweigh those of traditional braces. Aligner treatment should always be preceded by thorough diagnostics and treatment planning by an experienced orthodontist.
Advantages of aligner treatment
Aligners are a popular treatment option because they are less visible than conventional braces. What’s more, they can be removed for eating and brushing teeth. This makes treatment with clear aligners particularly comfortable for the patient.
Your expert for orthodontics
Dr. Fabian von Rom
In the specialist practice for orthodontics, Dr. med, dent. Fabian von Rom uses his extensive expertise and many years of experience to offer patients the best possible care. The practice offers the entire spectrum of modern orthodontics and specializes in innovative and advanced treatment methods. In addition to traditional procedures, the focus is on treatment with invisible braces for teenagers and adults – one of the most modern and discreet solutions in orthodontics. Dr. med. dent. Fabian von Rom attaches great importance to ensuring that medical precision goes hand in hand with a high level of patient satisfaction. By equipping the practice exclusively with individual treatment rooms, individual and professional care at the highest level is guaranteed.
Further topics
In our guide you will find lots more information on current, relevant and interesting topics relating to orthodontics. We hope you enjoy reading it!
