Teeth Straightening with Aligners

When it comes to straightening teeth or correcting bite issues, many patients ask which orthodontic method to choose. Today, the most popular options are braces and clear aligners—the latter being especially favored for their appearance and convenience.

Clear aligners are transparent and virtually invisible, making them an ideal solution for patients who prefer not to wear noticeable orthodontic appliances such as braces. Although ceramic braces are less visible than metal ones, aligners are still far superior in terms of aesthetics. This modern system is made of thin, fully transparent material, making it almost unnoticeable on the teeth.

Digital Orthodontics

Digital orthodontics is a revolution in teeth straightening, allowing patients to achieve a harmonious smile using nearly invisible aligners. It is a modern and aesthetic orthodontic system that aligns teeth and corrects bite problems without discomfort.

These unique aligners are made of thin, transparent material, making them both discreet and highly comfortable. Patients do not need to change their daily habits—aligners can be removed, require no special maintenance, and reduce the need for frequent dentist visits.

Treatment is planned digitally with great precision: each aligner is designed to gradually move the teeth, and patients can preview the expected final result in advance.

Aligners are custom-made for each patient. Tooth movement is achieved with the help of small attachments bonded to the teeth using tooth-colored composite material.

Aligners can help correct:

• gaps between teeth
• crowded or crooked teeth
• crossbite or open bite

Treatment Process with Aligners

1. Diagnosis

During the consultation, an orthodontist evaluates dental condition and determines if aligner treatment is suitable.

2. Digital Treatment Planning

A digital treatment plan is created. The patient can see a 3D simulation of how teeth will move and what the final smile will look like.
Digital planning also allows precise tracking of tooth root positions, which is especially important for patients with periodontal disease.

3. Manufacturing Aligners

Dental impressions are taken using an intraoral scanner, and a series of aligners is custom-made.

4. Treatment Process

The patient changes aligners approximately every two weeks.
Check-ups are required every 3–4 months to ensure proper progress.

Advantages of Aligners

• Virtually invisible
• Comfortable – no metal components
• Fewer visits compared to braces
• Convenient for travelers – easy oral hygiene
• Removable – fewer dietary restrictions

Disadvantages of Aligners

• Higher cost compared to braces
• Must be removed before eating and reinserted afterward
• Less effective for very complex cases
• Requires discipline – inconsistent use may prolong treatment

Teeth Straightening with Braces

Stages of Braces Treatment

1. Initial Consultation

The orthodontist evaluates the problem and explains treatment duration and cost.

2. Treatment Plan

Digital impressions are taken, and a personalized treatment plan is created.

3. Preparation

• Treatment of tooth decay
• Professional oral hygiene
• Other preparatory procedures

4. Braces Placement

• Takes about 1 hour per arch
• Completely painless
• Mild discomfort may occur initially
• Treatment duration: 1–3 years

5. Retention Phase

After treatment:

• fixed retainers and/or removable appliances are used
• ensures teeth do not shift back

When Are Braces Needed?

Braces are recommended if:

• bite is misaligned
• teeth are crooked or crowded
• facial asymmetry affects confidence
• oral hygiene is difficult due to misalignment
• recurring dental issues occur (plaque, tartar, bad breath)

Orthodontic issues often become noticeable in childhood. Early evaluation allows timely treatment, leading to faster and more effective results.

How to Prepare for Braces

Before braces placement:

• cavities must be treated
• professional cleaning must be performed
• in some cases, teeth extraction (often wisdom teeth) may be required
• worn teeth may need restoration

Traditional Teeth Straightening

Before digital orthodontics, braces were the primary treatment method. Despite being more visible and sometimes uncomfortable, braces are highly effective and can achieve excellent results.

Types of Braces

Metal Braces

• The oldest and most commonly used type
• Highly effective for correcting teeth and bite
• Less aesthetic due to visible metal components
• Treatment duration: 1.5–2 years

Ceramic Braces

• Designed to be less noticeable
• More aesthetic than metal braces
• Still somewhat visible
• More fragile than metal braces

Self-Ligating Braces

• Contain a built-in locking mechanism
• Reduce friction between the wire and brackets
• Shorter treatment duration
• Require fewer orthodontic visits