Dental aligners are becoming increasingly popular due to their discretion and effectiveness in correcting tooth alignment problems. But how do you choose the dental aligner that best suits your needs? Here’s a step-by-step guide to the type of aligner that’s right for your smile.
Understanding the different types of dental aligners
First of all, it’s essential to know the different options available on the dental aligner market:
- Clear aligners: often recommended for adults and teenagers, these aligners are made of clear, flexible medical plastic that conforms to the shape of your teeth. They are virtually invisible and offer optimum comfort.
- Traditional braces: although less aesthetically pleasing, metal bands and lingual brackets remain an effective alternative to clear aligners, especially for complex or severe cases.
- Hybrid aligners: some treatments combine the effect of clear aligners and a fixed appliance component to speed up the alignment process without sacrificing aesthetics.
This article guides readers through the factors to consider when selecting dental aligners, with a view to choosing the right aligner for their specific needs.
Assess your dental alignment needs
The first step in choosing the right aligner is to assess the alignment problems to be treated and their levels of complexity. Here are a few examples:
- Overcrowding: the overlapping of teeth can be mild, moderate or severe, depending on the space available in the jaw.
- Spacing: there are large gaps between teeth, usually caused by missing teeth or excess space in the jaw.
- Malocclusions: also known as jaw misalignments, these include crossbite, deep bite and open bite. These problems are generally more complex to treat and may require the use of traditional braces.
Determining the desired level of discretion
Now that you’ve identified the problems to be corrected, think about the level of visibility of your treatment. If you want to be discreet when wearing your braces, opt for clear aligners. On the other hand, if you’re not concerned about the aesthetics offered by metal bands or lingual brackets, these solutions may be more affordable and better suited to complex cases.
Find out about the duration and cost of treatment with dental aligners
It’s also important to consider the duration and cost of treatment, depending on the option chosen:
- Transparent aligners: the complete treatment can last between 6 months and 2 years, depending on the complexity of the case. The cost generally ranges from €3,000 to €7,000, but there are more affordable solutions on the market (from €1,500) with less personalized support.
- Traditional braces: correction with metal braces or lingual brackets often takes 18 to 24 months, or even longer. The cost of this type of treatment is often between €4,000 and €8,000, depending on complexity.
Check available reimbursements
Before you make up your mind, check with your health insurance or mutual insurance company to find out what reimbursements may be available for orthodontic treatment. Some insurers offer specific packages for dental treatment, sometimes including dental aligners.
Choosing a dental aligner professional
Finally, choosing the orthodontist or dentist who will carry out your treatment is crucial. An initial consultation will provide a precise diagnosis of your dental alignment needs and enable you to draw up a detailed treatment plan. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a professional:
- Experience and specialization: make sure the practitioner has specific expertise in fitting dental aligners, especially those that match your needs.
- Quality of follow-up and support: check that the professional will offer you regular follow-up throughout the treatment to ensure the effectiveness of your braces and avoid complications.
- Patient reviews: don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or consult online reviews to get an idea of the satisfaction of people who have undergone similar treatment with the chosen professional.
Choosing the perfect dental aligner for your smile requires a precise assessment of your alignment needs, taking into account the level of discretion desired, as well as the duration and cost of the treatment envisaged. Consult a qualified professional to determine the best option for your situation, and enhance your smile with confidence.
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