Clear aligners are known for their ability to effectively address a wide range of malocclusion cases. Aligners are not only known for being transparent and convenient but also for their flexibility in addressing diverse dental cases.
Whether you have crowded teeth, gaps, or a more complex issue, clear aligners offer a comfortable and discreet way to improve your smile. Let us explore how these transparent aligners work to create a healthier and happier smile.
Crowding
Crowding happens when there is not enough room in the jaw for teeth to align correctly, resulting in teeth that overlap or are misaligned. Crowding can make oral hygiene challenging, as crowded teeth are more difficult to clean, increasing the risk of decay and gum problems. According to studies, aligner treatments are effective for mild to moderate crowding resolution[1].
Spacing
Some people have natural gaps between their teeth due to genetics or other factors. Clear aligners are one of the solutions for closing spaces between teeth. Space closure with aligners is possible, but depends on the correct selection of the patient, in addition to requiring the proper planning of the applied forces[2].
Relapse After Braces
Once people wear braces, there is a possibility that their teeth can shift back to their original decisions before braces due to several factors such as not wearing your retainer. Patients may notice changes in the alignment of their teeth, bite discomfort, or gaps reappearing. By understanding, the potential causes and addressing relapse promptly clear aligners can be used to address these relapse[3]. After addressing relapse, patients may be advised to continue using retainers to prevent further shifts in tooth position.
Open Bite
An open bite is a dental condition where the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap when the mouth is closed. This lack of overlap creates a visible space between the upper and lower teeth, affecting both the appearance and function of the bite. Clear aligners can be effective in controlling the vertical dimension and correcting mild to moderate anterior open bite[4]. The goal is to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile by closing the gap in the bite enhancing the functionality of the bite.
Cross-bite
Cross-bites occur when the upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth. This misalignment can occur in different areas of the mouth, including the front (anterior cross-bite) or the back (posterior cross-bite). Cross-bites can be unilateral, affecting one side, or bilateral, affecting both sides of the dental arch. Anterior cross-bite could be dental, skeletal, or functional. By guiding the teeth into proper alignment, clear aligners can correct cross bites[5].
Class II Malocclusion
In class II malocclusion, the upper teeth are positioned too far forward with respect to the lower teeth. Specifically, the upper molars are too forward with respect to the lower molars. Pairing aligners with suitable auxiliary methods is an effective approach for addressing orthodontic concerns, including Class II malocclusion.[6]
Class III Malocclusion
In Class III malocclusion, the lower front teeth are positioned too far forward with respect to the upper front teeth. Specifically, the lower molars are too far forward compared to the upper molars. People with class III malocclusion often have their chin appearing too pronounced. Same as class II, paring aligners with suitable auxiliary methods can help to address Class III cases.[7]
In conclusion, clear aligners can work for a wide range of dental problems, from crowded or spaced teeth to more complex issues like cross-bites and class corrections. Each aligners is custom-made for each person, making them a convenient option for improving smiles. With technology advancements, clear aligners have become a popular choice for many people seeking a more comfortable and less noticeable way to straighten their teeth.
[1] Muro et al., “Effectiveness and Predictability of Treatment with Clear Orthodontic Aligners.”
[2] Machado, “Space Closure Using Aligners.”
[3] Shetty and Shaikh, “Clear Aligner Therepy – A Review.”
[4] Suh et al., “Treatment of Anterior Open Bites Using Non-Extraction Clear Aligner Therapy in Adult Patients.”
[5] Abraham et al., “Correction of Anterior Crossbite Using Modified Transparent Aligners.”
[6] Lombardo et al., “Class II Subdivision Correction with Clear Aligners Using Intermaxilary Elastics.”
[7] Inchingolo et al., “Treatment of Class III Malocclusion and Anterior Crossbite with Aligners.”