Recent years have seen a growing number of adults and teenagers in Melbourne seeking out more subtle forms of orthodontic treatment. As technology has evolved, many people have requested clear aligner treatment to help them achieve their perfect smile. But how do you find the right orthodontist in Melbourne to guide you through clear aligner treatment?
What is clear aligner treatment?
Clear aligner treatment is a form of orthodontics that utilises a series of clear plastic ‘aligner trays’ to gently guide teeth into a new position. When properly worn and cared for, the clear plastic is completely invisible, which is one of the key drivers behind their growing popularity. Since this is a completely removable form of orthodontic treatment, it is only recommended that patients who are responsible enough to consistently wear their aligners for at least 22 hours a day and to care for them when not in use proceed with this type of treatment.
Can I get clear aligners in Melbourne?
While many people seek out particular brand names – such as Invisalign®, Spark® and 3M Clarity – for their clear aligner treatment, it’s important for everyone to understand that these are simply the branded names of different clear aligner products. The products used vary amongst orthodontists in Melbourne, with each practitioner choosing a brand to partner with for their own reasons.
Are there any limitations for clear aligners?
There are many limitations for clear aligners, and this form of treatment is not recommended for every patient. Aside from requiring all patients to be consistently wearing them for a minimum of 22 hours a day, they must be properly cared for to avoid being lost, broken or warped. In addition, since they are not permanently fixed to the teeth throughout the treatment period, clear aligners are only capable of performing more minor corrections. For example, they may not be able to pull teeth down to bring them in line with their neighbours, but may be able to complete more minor rotations.
How much do clear aligners costs in Melbourne?
Clear aligner treatment is generally one of the cheaper treatment types, due to the less complex treatment requirements and cheaper materials. However, it is still recommended that all patients check in with their Melbourne-based orthodontist at regular intervals throughout their treatment plan to ensure everything is moving as predicted and that no adjustments need to be made. A full course of treatment may cost anywhere from $3,000 to $9,000 depending on the number of appointments, the number of trays and the complexity of the case.
How long does clear aligner treatment take in Melbourne?
Every smile is completely different, so there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer to this question. However, most orthodontic treatment plans can last up to 18 months. While some dental providers claim to be able to straighten your teeth in as little as six months, depending on your case many Melbourne orthodontists will consider this to be an incomplete treatment. A full treatment course not only straightens the front teeth which are visible when you smile, but also corrects your bite and your jaw alignment. This is important because an improperly aligned jaw can lead to pain, difficulty speaking, uneven wearing of the teeth and even sleep apnoea.
Who do I speak to about clear aligners in Melbourne?
If you’re considering clear aligner treatment to help correct your smile, you should consult our Finder Tool to search for a registered specialist orthodontist in Melbourne. They will be able to assess your smile and jaw alignment and to help you decide if clear aligners are right for you.
Loading...
