Aligners. What is it for teeth straightening, mouthguards for bite correction. Photo, price, reviews

Aligner - it is a special orthodontic appliance, which is designed to correct the occlusion, the formation of the correct direction of growth of the teeth of the lower and upper jaw. This medical device is made of high quality polymer materials without the use of synthetic dyes.

In appearance, the aligner resembles a mouthguard that is worn over the patient's dentition. Such orthodontic appliances are made individually after a detailed examination by a dentist-orthodontist.

The casting of a corrective mouth guard is carried out on the basis of dental impressions, samples of which were taken from a person who needs to correct the shape or direction of the molars. Aligners were first developed in 1998 by the US company Align Technology.

Purpose of aligners, indications

Aligners are orthodontic products that are designed for timely correction of the direction of the teeth, as well as the formation of the correct bite of the lower jaw. The use of medical mouth guards of this type allows you to restore the aesthetic appeal of the dentition, which has signs of curvature of individual molars.

Such corrective devices are indicated for regular use by patients with the following dental problems:

• too dense arrangement of teeth;
• curvature of individual molars;
• violation of the anatomically correct shape of the dentition;
• preparation of the upper or lower jaw for implantation;
• therapeutic procedures for dentoalveolar lengthening or shortening;
• elimination of large gaps between teeth.

Depending on the individual characteristics of the development of the patient's upper and lower jaw, congenital malformations dentition, the orthodontist may decide to use aligners to correct other dental defects.

Contraindications

Aligners are a medical device designed to restore the correct position of teeth. Despite the absolute safety and harmlessness of this device, corrective mouth guards have the following contraindications to their therapeutic use:

• periodontal diseases in the acute phase of their development;
• destructive processes in the structure of the bone tissue of the alveoli, which cover at least half of the root system of a curved tooth;
• severe diseases of the jaw apparatus, which exclude the possibility of using aligners;
• the presence of bridge structures;
• the patient has regenerated teeth;
• there are previously installed dental implants in the dentition;
• hard deposits on the surface of tooth enamel;
• skeletal types of anomalies in the development of the dentition;
• pathological condition of the bone or connective tissue of the temporomandibular joints.

The orthodontist who prescribes the use of aligners, conducts a comprehensive examination of the patient's oral cavity, performs X-ray examination of the patient's jaw apparatus, and only then makes a decision on the appropriateness of using this products.

Mechanism of action of aligners to straighten teeth

Aligners are such an orthodontic product that acts on the human root system, also directly on the entire dentition, creating a minimum load on the structure of the bone tissue.

The mechanism for the implementation of the therapeutic properties of these caps lies in the fact that in the conditions of their regular wearing, a constant pressure on the upper part of the molar, which triggers the process of splitting the bone tissue of the alveoli in the direction of the curved tooth growth.

In this regard, there is an increase in bone tissue in an absolutely opposite direction, which ensures the restoration of the anatomically correct position of the molars. The tooth, which previously had signs of curvature, gradually moves along the trajectory, the direction of which is laid down in the aligner design.

Advantages of aligners over other methods of bite correction

Aligners are an effective tool for painless and maximally comfortable alignment of teeth.

The following advantages of these products are distinguished over other methods of correcting malocclusion:

• the mouthguard for correcting the dentition has a more attractive appearance, is completely transparent and has a small thickness;
• aligners are made individually, taking into account even minor anatomical features in the structure of the patient's jaw apparatus;
• an orthodontic product of this type fits the crown of the tooth from all sides, which speeds up the process of restoring its anatomically correct position;
• any mouthguard for correcting the dentition is easy to remove from the oral cavity without the help of a dentist, as well as to carry out all the necessary hygienic procedures;
• routine examination by a dentist-orthodontist, who monitors the process of alignment of the dentition or restoration of the correct bite, takes no more than 5-10 minutes, and also does not provide any painful manipulations;
• it is possible to completely eliminate mechanical damage to the soft tissues of the gums and palate;
• aligners do not require complex hygienic care.

The main and only drawback of this type of orthodontic appliance is the higher cost of compared to other medical devices that perform similar functions to eliminate dental defects.

Types of aligners and selection criteria

Aligners are a medical product, the selection of which is carried out with the direct participation of an orthodontist. Only a specialist of this profile is able to determine the correct shape of the mouthguard for the correction of the dentition and occlusion, the wearing of which will bring a positive therapeutic effect.

All types of aligners are produced using the same technology, which provides for thermoforming. orthodontic apparatus using special pressing equipment under high pressure or under conditions complete vacuum.

Silicone

Silicone aligners are characterized by a softer and more elastic structure that adheres well to the surface of the soft tissues of the oral cavity. The advantage of this type of orthodontic products is the minimal risk of mechanical damage to the gums or palate.

Silicone aligners are completely hypoallergenic, do not contain harmful chemical impurities and other components that can provoke the effect of local irritation.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane aligners are characterized by a more rigid structure, and polymer materials from the urethane group (alkyl, acyl, aryl) are used for their manufacture. Orthodontic products of this type do an excellent job of eliminating the curvature of the teeth and restoring the correct bite.

Polyurethane aligners are made of high quality plastic that does not contain harmful impurities. If there is a choice between using a polymer or silicone mouthguard, then it is better to opt for the latter type of product.

24/7 and night

24/7 aligners are designed to be worn regularly for 24 hours a day. This type of medical device is used to treat patients with complex forms of curvature of the dentition or the presence of a malocclusion. The round-the-clock use of these aligners allows you to achieve a positive result even in the presence of severe disorders in the development of the jaw apparatus.

Night-type orthodontic appliances are designed for use during sleep. In the daytime, a person leads a normal life without using dental systems to straighten teeth.

After completing the evening oral hygiene, the patient puts on his assigned night aligners, which should be on the surface of the teeth throughout the night. This type of medical device is ineffective in case of severe curvature of the dentition or severe malocclusion.

Adults and children

All types of aligners for the correction of the shape of the teeth and the formation of an anatomically correct bite are created individually for the jaw apparatus of each patient.

In the manufacture of mouth guards for the correction of dental defects, the child's age, the growth rate of the bone tissue of the upper and lower jaw are taken into account. Adult aligners are created without adjusting for age-related changes in the jaw apparatus, especially if the mouthguard is designed for therapeutic wear for 1-1.5 years.

Materials for the manufacture of products, which are better?

Aligners are an orthodontic product that constantly comes into contact with the surface of the enamel of the teeth, soft tissues of the gums and palate. Therefore, it is recommended to use a neutral material. Silicone aligners are much less likely to cause allergic reactions, local irritation or mechanical tissue damage.

The composition of the dental mouth guard, which is made of polyurethane, always contains polymer-type chemical compounds. People with an increased sensitivity of the body to plastic-based products may experience local allergic reactions.

Stages of treatment and wearing systems

Eliminating dental defects with aligners does not require much effort. The patient needs only regular wearing of the orthodontic apparatus, selected by the attending physician, as well as a visit to the doctor, according to the compiled schedule of planned examinations.

At the first stage of prescribing a mouthguard for correcting the dentition and occlusion, the orthodontist diagnoses the patient's jaw apparatus, takes pictures of the teeth, and makes impressions of the upper and lower jaw. Then, using computer technology, a three-dimensional model of the future aligner is created, on the basis of which the finished medical product is molded.

After the mouthguard is made, the patient comes to an appointment with the dentist, who installs the orthodontic appliance, and also explains the rules of hygienic care. Upon completion of the planned appointment, a person can return to their usual way of life. The next visit to the dentist should take place no later than 2-3 weeks from the date of initiation of treatment.

The doctor performs an examination of the oral cavity, evaluates the first results from the treatment started, and is interested in the patient's well-being. The average duration of treatment with aligners for crooked teeth and malocclusion is from 8 months to 2 years, depending on the severity of the clinical case.

During this period of time, the patient undergoes preventive examinations at the orthodontist. If necessary, the mouthguard is replaced taking into account changes in the patient's jaw apparatus.

Features of care for aligners

Aligners do not require particularly difficult maintenance. When brushing your teeth, it is enough to remove the orthodontic appliance from the oral cavity, rinse it under a stream of water at room temperature, and then brush it with toothpaste and a brush. The medical device is then rinsed again under the tap to complete its complete cleaning.

Upon completion of oral hygiene, the aligners are again put on the surface of the teeth. During the maintenance of the orthodontic appliance, it is necessary to ensure that too hot water does not act on its surface. Medical devices of this type, made of polymer materials, under the influence of high temperatures can deform and lose their therapeutic properties.

Before and after effect

Correctly fitted aligners, when worn regularly for a set period of time, allow completely correct the curvature of the teeth, form an aesthetically pleasing smile, as well as restore the correct bite.

In the presence of minor dental defects, a positive therapeutic effect occurs after 8-9 months. treatment. More complex cases with pronounced curvature of the teeth may require regular wearing of aligners for 2 years.

Most effective aligners, popular brands

The table below shows the most popular aligner brands used by millions of people around the world.

The most effective aligners	Country of origin of the medical device
Invisalign	This type of aligners is produced by the American company Aling Technology. Currently about 4 million inhabitants of the planet Earth use the products of this manufacturer, which are of high quality and safety.
Star smile	This trademark produces high-quality mouth guards for the correction of the dentition and occlusion. The release of these aligners is carried out in Moscow in compliance with the standards of American technology.
Clear correct	This type of orthodontic appliances has been produced since 2006 in the United States. Clear Correct aligners are suitable for patients with individual sensitivity to polymeric materials.
Invisible All In	Aligners of this brand are made in Italy and have a lower cost than American mouthguards.
Denti belli	Italian-made orthodontic appliances, which are manufactured using the 3D printing method. These products are delivered to Russia within 2 weeks from the date of preliminary order.
Orto snap	American aligners, the production of which does not provide for three-dimensional modeling of the future product. In this regard, trays of this type are cheaper, but it is difficult to predict the exact results of treatment.

Most orthodontists who have a long-term dental practice have their regular customers supplying only quality aligners.

Aligners cost

The cost of effective aligners, which allow you to quickly correct the curvature of the teeth and malocclusion, varies from 130,000 to 200,000 rubles. for a set of 10 caps. This number of orthodontic products may be required throughout the entire treatment period. Aligners are replaced as positive changes in the jaw apparatus progress.

Answers to frequently asked questions

Most people who have not yet decided on the purchase of aligners are concerned about the most pressing issues related to the quality of life with the mouthguard installed.

Do aligners hurt teeth?

Aligners do not cause toothache. A slight sensation of discomfort persists for 30 minutes. after the patient puts on the orthodontic appliance for the first time. This is the period of adaptation to the presence of a foreign object inside the oral cavity. Then, wearing the aligners becomes routine without any discomfort.

Which is better - aligners or braces?

Aligners and braces perform the same orthodontic function. Despite this, the design of the latter type is more complex, causes a prolonged feeling of discomfort, and complicates the hygienic care of teeth. The only advantage of a bracket system is its lower cost. In other characteristics, aligners are superior to this orthodontic product.

How long should aligners be worn and how often are they changed?

Aligners are replaced as the dental defect is corrected. On average, this is every 2-4 weeks. The duration of wearing the mouthguard depends on the complexity of the clinical case (from 8 months to 2 years).

Can aligners be used for upper teeth only?

The possibility of using aligners only for the correction of the upper jaw is determined only by the orthodontist based on the results of diagnostics of the patient's jaw apparatus.

Can aligners only be worn at night?

In order to carry out the alignment of crooked teeth or malocclusion during sleep, it is necessary to use night aligners. This type of medical device is prescribed by an orthodontist if the patient has minor dental defects.

Can I drink alcohol with aligners?

During the period of therapy with aligners, it is not prohibited to consume alcoholic beverages. Alcohol does not affect the process of restoring the correct shape of teeth and bite.

Is it okay to kiss aligners?

Aligners are not an obstacle to kissing. An orthodontic product of this type does not cause unpleasant physical sensations. Only the emergence of psychological discomfort is possible.

Can I eat with aligners?

Any type of food is allowed while wearing aligners. The main thing is that the food is not too hot. High temperatures can cause deformational changes in the structure of the orthodontic product. It should be remembered that aligners must be regularly cleaned of food debris. On average, this process should occur at least 2 times a day.

Can I drink coffee with aligners?

Patients undergoing treatment for dental defects using this type of medical device are allowed to consume coffee. In this case, it is necessary to refuse to drink a hot drink. The coffee should be warm. Otherwise, the therapeutic properties of the aligners can be impaired.

Can i chew gum with aligners?

Chewing gum is allowed while wearing a mouthguard to correct crooked teeth and malocclusion. In this case, there are no medical restrictions, but remember that the gum can stick to the surface of the aligner.

Aligners are a modern orthodontic appliance in the form of a mouthguard, which is designed to restore the anatomically correct shape of teeth and a disturbed bite.

A medical device of this type is designed to be worn around the clock, or is used only at night. The duration of the therapeutic course varies from 8 months to 2 years, depending on the complexity of the clinical case.

The appointment and selection of aligners with the necessary characteristics is carried out by an orthodontist, who performs a comprehensive diagnosis of the patient's jaw apparatus. It is necessary to come to an appointment with such a specialist after a complete sanitation of the oral cavity by a dentist-therapist.

Video about aligners

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