If you are contemplating using clear aligners to straighten your smile, you are probably wondering if the value you get is worth the cost. Here, our dentists in Halifax share some facts you might want to take into consideration when thinking about clear aligners treatment.
What Are Clear Aligners?
There are a few brands of clear aligners out there, and they all consist of a series of clear, custom-made aligners that you wear on your teeth and change about every 2 weeks. Each set of removable, custom-made clear aligners gradually adjusts your teeth in tiny increments.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
One of the reasons why clear aligners are a popular treatment option is that they can be removed to eat, drink, and brush your teeth, so there are no dietary restrictions.
Depending on which brand you select for straightening your smile, clear aligners could help correct various orthodontic issues such as crowding, bite issues, and teeth misalignments. Another benefit is that they offer a discreet appearance.
Your clear aligners also won’t have to be adjusted or tightened as braces do, which could be uncomfortable at times. You’ll just have to regularly visit your dentist so they can check in on your progress.
Costs of Clear Aligners
A few factors will determine the cost of your clear aligners:
- Any coverage you can get through an insurance plan
- Your oral health requirements and how much work you will need
- Your location and average prices for clear aligners
Depending on your individual case and the clear aligner brand you opt for, they will probably cost approximately the same amount as traditional braces - or maybe a bit more.
Duration of Clear Aligners Treatments
Investing in clear aligners to improve your smile is a commitment to carefully following your treatment process so you will be able to show off a straighter smile once your treatment is over. Only your dentist will be able to determine your specific needs, including the length of your treatment. Some factors that may impact the duration of your treatment include:
- Your compliance with your custom treatment plan
- The severity of your misalignment
- The number of aligners in your series
Provided you follow the treatment plan exactly as prescribed, clear aligners can help improve your smile and straighten your teeth. If you know how many aligners are in your series, you can find out how long your treatment will take by doing some simple math.
Assuming you have 16 sets of aligners and switch them every 2 weeks, you’d use 2 sets of aligners per month. 16 divided by 2 is 8, meaning your treatment will take 8 months.
Most patients begin to see results around the 4- to 6-week mark. You may want to take a photo of your smile each week so that you can get a good idea of how much your teeth are moving, and thus the value your clear aligners are bringing to your smile - and your oral health.