Aligners have revolutionized the way we approach teeth straightening in orthodontics. There are two common terms: overcorrection aligners and clear aligners. Although they do have some similarities in the way they work, they are slightly different in how they approach tooth alignment. We will discuss the differences between these two in this blog, which could help you choose which one is best for you.
Understanding clear aligners
Do you keep your smile hidden due to your misaligned teeth? If so, then don’t worry, as the well-known clear aligner orthodontic treatment is a common choice for those seeking a more pleasant dental experience. Clear aligners are plastic trays made to fit closely over your teeth. They exert light to moderate force to slowly move your teeth into the right position. However, it is essential for anyone thinking about clear aligner treatment to know all aspects of the process before beginning.
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Treatment with clear aligners
The popularity of clear aligner treatment has surged due to its non-invasive nature. It is recognized as an effective and dependable option for addressing various dental concerns. Keep in mind that clear aligners are effective for mild to moderate dental issues and are not suggested for severe dental cases. Here are some of the conditions that can be treated with clear aligners:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Gapped teeth
Advantages of clear aligners
Clear aligners offer numerous benefits for patients. Here are some of their key advantages:
- Comfortable treatment
- Easy to use
- Nearly invisible
- Easily removable
Understanding overcorrection aligners
Overcorrection aligners, also known as refinement aligners, are designed to enhance the alignment of your teeth by moving them into a specific position, going beyond just straightening.
Once orthodontic treatment is completed, teeth generally have a tendency to move back to where they started from. To combat this, overcorrection aligners are designed to move them slightly more than required, so that if they return (which they do), it is in a corrected position.
How do overcorrection aligners work?
Overcorrection aligners are also used as part of an aligner treatment plan. It works similarly to clear aligners.
These are a set of clear plastic trays that are made to take an impression of a person’s teeth. Every tray exerts a specific force on the teeth that would move them, which not only provides the required alignment but also adds extra space in any relapse.
Advantages of overcorrection aligners
Fewer adjustments: An orthodontic retainer is the type of aligner designed to shift teeth to other extra neighborhoods for some time. This extra motion helps in adjusting position or any other issue that may require additional standard adjustments.
Enhanced control: With overcorrection aligners, orthodontists have more control over the alignment process, especially in difficult cases.
Customizable: These are tailored according to the patient’s dental requirements; thus, they address their specific dental issues apart from bite and positioning.
Clear aligners vs. overcorrection aligners
|
Aspect |
Aligners |
Overcorrection |
|
Purpose |
Teeth straightening |
Ensure teeth settle in the correct position |
|
Treatment Duration |
4-6 months |
May take longer due to additional movements required |
|
Cost |
Less expensive |
More expensive due to specialized design and complexity |
When choosing a dental tool for your teeth straightening requirements, it is essential to understand the differences between overcorrection aligners and clear aligners. Clear aligners function as a discreet and comfortable way to achieve a straighter smile, unlike overcorrection aligners, which align the teeth beyond the required alignment to ensure that they relapse in the correct position.
FAQs
Are clear aligners suitable for everyone?
Clear aligners can be a great option, but those with more complex orthodontic issues might need to consider traditional braces or other treatments.
How often should I wear my aligners?
For maximum effectiveness, you must wear your aligners for about 20 to 22 hours a day.
