You Ask , They Answer
Q
: What are invisible braces or Aligners and are they a game changer ?
A
: Invisible braces are a technological leap in dentistry . Some of the reasons people wear braces are to improve their appearance by straightening crooked teeth , improve their ability to chew , or make it easier to maintain and clean their teeth .
Braces ‘ move ’ teeth and traditional braces move teeth using a wire and brackets fixed on individual teeth which then are manipulated to move teeth in the planned direction .
Invisible braces are a removable appliance made of a special medical grade plastic which fits over the teeth . The term “ invisible ” comes from the fact that these appliances or aligners are transparent . Once they sit over your teeth , they can hardly be seen compared to traditional braces which have brackets attached to each tooth and are much more visible .
Q
: Are they effective and reliable ?
A
: The basis of Aligner technology is cad / cam technology , digital scanning , and a powerful AI . The last few years have seen a tremendous advancement in all these areas . This means that the ability for aligners to move teeth in a specified way is now very reliable . Success rates are very high even in cases that used to be too complex for aligners before .
The ability to use technology to simulate outcomes before even starting treatment has been a game changer . The accuracy and reliability of these simulators are remarkable . Orthodontic Specialists and practitioners with aligner training and experience can use these simulators and incorporate them into their treatment planning to ensure great results for patients .
Q
: What are some of the advantages of invisible braces ?
A
: Visibility - Not easily visible when in use .
Hygiene - It is much easier to maintain dental hygiene with aligners compared to traditional braces because aligners can be removed and the teeth can be brushed and flossed normally .
Eating - It is less cumbersome to eat because aligners are removed while eating . The usual difficulty of food getting trapped with normal braces is avoided here .
Fewer visits - The aligners are given as a set in sequences and do not usually need as many visits as traditional braces . Movement occurs with the changing of the aligners which is done at home rather than having to visit the dental office to adjust the traditional braces .
Q
: Can invisible braces always replace traditional braces ?
A
: Up till a few years ago , many complex movements were beyond what invisible braces could do . However , the improvements in digital technology and materials have enabled invisible braces to complete much more complex movements and , in some cases , in an even more controlled way . There are still some situations which are best treated with traditional braces , and its always best to seek a consultation to see which option is best for you . Today , more and more orthodontic cases can be completed succesfully using invisible braces .
Q
: Which would be more suitable for an international patient ?
A
: Traditional braces are usually not recommended for patients who are not able to visit the same practice frequently . With invisible braces , it is possible in many cases for the entire treatment to be started and completed without multiple visits to the practice . Progress can even be montiored using digital Apps . The suitability for treatment in this situation can be determined after a digital scan is done .
Dr Suresh Nair
Dr Suresh Nair is a dental doctor at Pristine Dental Centre in Kuala Lumpur .
10 ISSUE 5 | 2022 GlobalHealthAsiaPacific . com