Here at Heaton Mersey, your orthodontists local to Manchester and Stockport, carry out clear aligners treatment on our patients regularly and are always as delighted as they are with their spectacular new smiles. Sometimes, we’re asked about the risks and limitations of clear aligners treatment. In this post, we’ll do our utmost to highlight exactly […]
Here at Heaton Mersey, your orthodontists local to Manchester and Stockport, carry out clear aligners treatment on our patients regularly and are always as delighted as they are with their spectacular new smiles.
Sometimes, we’re asked about the risks and limitations of clear aligners treatment. In this post, we’ll do our utmost to highlight exactly what you can expect from your new braces and anything else you need to know to make an informed decision.
Risks of Clear Aligners
The treatment in itself isn’t risky it can have hugely positive benefits for your oral health, especially if your smile makes it difficult to effectively clean between your teeth. However, there are some things you need to be aware of:
– Damaged/misplaced aligners – although you can order replacements, or even switch to an older set if broken, doing so could disrupt your treatment.
– Discomfort may be experienced – clear braces aren’t known for being painful it’s considered an extremely comfortable and effective alternative to traditional braces, especially as no wires or brackets are used. However, there can be a feeling of tightness or pressure when changing aligners.
– Possibility of TMD – otherwise known as the jaw, ear or headache pain, there is a greater risk of this developing with any kind of brace (not just clear braces).
Limitations of Clear Aligners
There are some cases where clear aligners may not be recommended for you.
– Not effective on restorative work – it may be the case that you’ve had past crowns, veneers, fillings, dental implants or other restorations. If this is the case, clear braces may not be advised.
– Possible (partial) regression of teeth – if you don’t wear retainers after your treatment, your teeth may move from their new positions.
– Can’t change tooth shape – this type of work is more the remit of crowns, veneers, composite bonding and other treatment methods.
– Some patients aren’t eligible – certain tooth types may not be suited to treatment, for instance short, rounded or pegged teeth.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
There are lots to love about the treatment – and little in the way of risks and limitations, as we’ve discussed. Here are our favourite features:
– Clear for discreet treatment
– Comfortable on teeth, with minimal pressure
– Replaceable if lost or broken
– Removable for eating and dental routine
– Eat any diet or food you choose
– Potential benefits to oral health
– No wires or brackets
Book your treatment today
At our orthodontists, local to Stockport and Manchester, we’d love to help you on your way to straighter teeth. Get in touch with our team to find out more.
