There have been many instances where new techniques or treatment plans are introduced and that are not happily accepted by the patient. However, it’s been the exact opposite for dental aligners. Patients accepted dental or invisible aligners very happily because of their ultra-clear, almost invisible aesthetics and comfortable course.
However, every new thing comes with lots of curiosity, myths, taboos, and suggestions and invisible aligners also accompany them. This article targets all those general myths that are associated with the invisible aligners and the truth behind them.
Before starting the myth series, let’s first understand how invisible aligners work, the science behind them and every basic detail.
What Are Invisible Aligners?
Invisible aligners are orthodontic devices that are to be worn over your teeth like trays. These clear plastic trays are made of medical-grade plastic that straighten your crooked teeth. You wear them over your teeth and most people can’t even see them.
How Invisible Aligners Work?
Aligners fit tightly over your teeth and exert pressure on the crooked teeth to shift them into the right position. This pressure is called orthodontic force. Once, the teeth come in the desired position, the patient needs to wear retainers, which retain the teeth in position.
Myth 1: They Don’t Work as Well as Braces
Truth: Invisible aligners work on the same principle as braces, without wires and brackets. Both braces and aligners shift the tooth using orthodontic forces and do not pose any risk or complication. For many cases like crowded teeth or gaps, aligners can work as fast as braces which is almost invisible. Your dentist will be the perfect person to check if they’re right for you.
Sometimes in very complex cases, aligners may be given along with braces.
Myth 2: They’re Only for Adults
Truth: Not true! Teens can wear them too. Companies like Illusion Aligners provide products like Illusion Aligners Teen that are made especially for growing kids. These aligners are made to adjust with the growing teeth and jaw and are thus easy to maintain by the teens. They fit very well and even help boost the confidence of teens by giving invisible treatment regimens.
Myth 3: You Can Eat with Them On
Truth: You should not eat with aligners on. Though aligners are stain-free and breakage-resistant, they are not made to be worn during eating. It is advised to take them out when eating and drinking (except water). This keeps them clean and strong. Also, it’s easy to maintain oral hygiene because you can remove the aligners and brush & floss your teeth.
Myth 4: They Hurt a Lot
Truth: Aligners may feel tight for a few days when you change to a new set. It is essential for your aligners to have a tight fit to work properly. A simple painkiller medicine can sort out the issue. But the truth is they are smooth, and made of biocompatible material. They do not have any metal wires and brackets and that’s why they don’t poke or cut your mouth like metal braces can. Most people find them more comfortable, feasible, and user-friendly.
Myth 5: They Make You Talk Funny
Truth: Any new thing introduced in the body takes time to get adjusted to. Some people lisp a little at first, not because of any discomfort but because of the foreign feel. This feeling fades away in a few days, and most patients get used to talking with aligners in just a day or two.
Myth 6: They’re Not Safe
Truth: They’re made from safe, medical-grade plastic. No BPA. No metal. Companies like Illusion Aligners are backed with 510 k cleared aligners, which means they are certified safe and are completely non-toxic. So, even if invisible aligners are made of plastic, they are safe, quality-checked, and trusted by dental experts.
Myth 7: They’re Too Expensive
Truth: The price depends on your teeth alignment and how much movement is needed. Some aligners, like Illusion Aligners, offer affordable plans too. Plus, fewer dentist visits can save money in the long run.
Invisible aligners though little expensive than the braces, completely justify the benefits they offer over metal wires.
Myth 8: You Don’t Need a Dentist
Truth: Invisible Aligners are a proper treatment that has to be directed by your dentist. Whatever fancy the DIY aligners may look, only a legit dentist or orthodontist must plan your treatment. They check your progress and make sure everything is going right. DIY aligners can be risky! It’s always better to go through aligner treatment under a dentist’s supervision and trusted materials.
Myth 9: Results Don’t Last
Truth: After aligners, you must wear retainers. Retainers help keep your new smile in place. This is true for both aligners and braces.
Final Thoughts
Invisible aligners are safe, smart, and effective – but only when used the right way. Don’t let myths stop you from getting your dream smile. Talk to your dentist, ask questions, and get the facts straight.
