The Benefits of Clear Aligner Therapy Over Traditional Braces

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Braces, But Make It Invisible

Straightening your teeth doesn’t have to mean a mouth full of metal brackets and wires anymore. Clear aligner therapy has emerged as a popular and discreet alternative to traditional braces. As the name suggests, this treatment uses a series of clear, removable aligners to shift your teeth into their desired positions gradually. 

At our dental practice in North East, PA, Dr. Dina Nuhfer offers two leading clear aligner systems – Invisalign and SureSmile. While both systems are highly effective, clear aligners provide several advantages over conventional braces. Schedule your appointment today by calling (814) 725-4700.

Benefit #1: Virtually Invisible Appearance

One of the biggest draws of clear aligners is their virtually invisible appearance. The aligners are made of a transparent, plastic-like material that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. 

Unlike the very noticeable metal brackets and wires of braces, most people won’t even realize you’re straightening your teeth unless you tell them. This discreet treatment option is ideal for professionals, teens, and anyone who wants to improve their smile without drawing unwanted attention.

Benefit #2: Removable for Eating and Oral Hygiene

With traditional braces, you have to follow a restricted diet and take extra care when brushing and flossing to avoid damaging the brackets and wires. Clear aligners, on the other hand, can be temporarily removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. 

This means you can continue enjoying all your favorite foods without worrying about potential breakages or getting particles stuck in your braces. Plus, maintaining your regular oral hygiene routine is a breeze since you can brush and floss just like normal after taking out the aligners.

Benefit #3: More Comfortable and Fewer Food Restrictions

The metal components of traditional braces can poke and irritate the insides of your mouth, leading to sores and discomfort – especially after adjustments. Clear aligners have no protruding wires or brackets. 

Instead, they use a series of smooth, customized plastic trays to apply gentle, constant pressure and gradually reposition your teeth. You can say goodbye to the mouth irritation and food restrictions that often come with metal braces.

Benefit #4: Shorter Treatment Time and Fewer Office Visits

Treatment with clear aligners is often faster than traditional braces. While treatment times can vary based on the complexity of your case, clear aligner therapy typically ranges from six to 18 months for most patients – which is a shorter timeframe compared to the average of 18 to 24 months with braces. 

Additionally, you’ll spend less time at the orthodontist’s office since there are no wires to routinely tighten or adjust. Instead, you’ll simply switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks at home.

Benefit #5: Improved Oral Hygiene and Dental Health

One of the challenges of traditional braces is maintaining proper oral hygiene. The metal brackets and wires create many nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can accumulate, increasing your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues if not meticulously cleaned. 

With clear aligners, you simply remove them before brushing and flossing to easily clean your entire tooth. This helps you avoid many of the oral hygiene pitfalls associated with braces.

Say Hello to Our Discreet Orthodontic Treatments

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your smile, the team at our North East dental practice encourages you to explore clear aligner therapy. Systems like Invisalign and SureSmile offer a virtually invisible, comfortable, and convenient way to achieve your desired results without the hassles of traditional braces. 
Get ready to smile with confidence throughout your entire treatment! Contact us today at (814) 725-4700 to schedule a consultation and learn if clear aligners are right for you.