In the last 30 years, more than 10 million people have used clear aligners as an alternative to metal braces. Clear aligners are often a good choice for people who want avoid wearing conventional braces for years at a time.
Clear aligners are clear, thin, almost invisible splints that patients wear over their teeth, up to 22 hours per day. They are easily removable for cleaning and mealtimes, making them more hygienic than traditional metal braces. Patients periodically switch out their current aligner for a new one, gradually straightening their teeth.
Invisalign vs. Tréz Aligners
Several companies offer clear aligners for teeth straightening. You’re probably most familiar with Invisalign, but Dr. Stillman uses Tréz aligners for several reasons. Tréz aligners were designed by an orthodontist with an eye toward patient comfort.
Tréz patients wear a series of aligners that progress from soft to hard, speeding up the realignment process and reducing discomfort. Tooth movement is planned by a computer, and aligners can rotate individual teeth, close gaps between teeth, and address tooth crowding.
In addition to being more comfortable than Invisalign, Tréz aligners are also less visible. They rarely require attachments to be bonded to your teeth to keep them in place and they are manufactured with advanced technology that eliminates the lines that are visible in other aligners. The result is a virtually invisible appliance.
Tréz achieves better results in less time than metal braces. The aligners extend to cover the gums to maximize surface area. Studies have shown that this increases the efficiency of the adjustments by offering additional leverage and control. Most treatments are complete in less than a year, half the time of conventional braces.
Three-Step Process
The first step in getting clear aligners is to visit with Dr. Stillman. She will take a digital scan or impressions of your teeth, then send them to be analyzed.
You will then receive a Trézur Box with a series of aligners and instructions for their use. Every week or so, you will put on a new aligner that is closer to your goal. Because you switch the aligners yourself, there are fewer visits to the office, which means less time away from what’s important to you.
After you complete the straightening process, you will receive a free final retainer to keep your teeth in proper shape for life.
Make an Appointment
To make an appointment with Dr. Stillman regarding clear aligners, please call our office or request an appointment online. Not every orthodontic case is appropriate for treatment with aligners, so if you would like a visit to discuss with Dr. Stillman whether or not you would be a candidate, call our office and ask for a complimentary 15-minute consultation. She can also answer any questions you may have about teeth straightening using Tréz aligners.