Traditional metal and wire braces have historically been the most common means of correcting misaligned teeth. However, thanks to advances in dental and orthodontic technology, patients with malocclusions (the technical term for misalignments) now have other treatment options to consider.
For instance, if you’d prefer an alternative to traditional braces, you may be a good candidate for SureSmile aligners. Similar to Invisalign aligners, they offer unique advantages braces can’t offer.
What Are SureSmile Aligners?
SureSmile aligners are clear aligners that can address the same types of issues traditional braces may address. However, because SureSmile aligners are transparent, when a patient wears them, they are essentially invisible. This allows them to correct a smile without temporarily having an unwanted impact on a patient’s appearance.
Cosmetic benefits is just one reason some patients prefer SureSmile aligner over traditional braces. Other advantages this treatment option offers include:
Convenience
SureSmile aligners arguably offer a more convenient means of treating crooked teeth and similar issues than traditional braces offer. Unlike braces, a patient can remove a SureSmile aligner before eating, flossing, and brushing their teeth. Doing so allows them to adhere to good oral hygiene habits more thoroughly and easily than they might if they had braces.
Thanks to the modern 3D technology that allows for the creation of custom aligners, SureSmile aligners also conform to the shape of a patient’s mouth and teeth. Because SureSmile aligners typically fit a patient’s mouth fairly naturally, patients who choose this treatment method may not need to schedule as many adjustment visits as they would if they chose traditional braces to correct their malocclusions.
Comfort
The custom fit of a SureSmile aligner doesn’t merely allow a patient to limit the amount of time they spend visiting the dentist to have their braces adjusted. It may also promote greater comfort during treatment.
Easy Maintenance
It’s possible for bacteria to build up in SureSmile aligners over time. Patients must therefore clean them somewhat regularly to prevent bacteria from jeopardizing the health of their teeth and gums.
Luckily, the process of cleaning SureSmile aligners is simple. It typically involves:
- Letting the aligners sit in a cup of warm water for about 15 minutes
- Removing the aligners from the water and gently scrubbing them with a toothbrush other than the one you use to brush your teeth
- Gently rinsing the aligners again
The dental professional who provides you with SureSmile aligners may offer additional tips for cleaning and caring for them. Follow their advice to ensure your aligners remain in good condition throughout all stages of your treatment. The main point to understand is that SureSmile aligners don’t require any particularly intensive maintenance.
Dietary Flexibility
It’s always wise to adhere to a balanced diet and to avoid foods that can put teeth at risk of damage or decay. That said, another reason some patients choose SureSmile aligners over braces is the fact that, because they can remove the aligners before meals, they can essentially continue eating anything they like while correcting their smiles. On the other hand, while a patient is wearing metal and wire braces, they usually have to avoid certain foods.
Ask Your Dentist About the Benefits of SureSmile Aligners
This overview highlights merely a few of the advantages SureSmile aligners offer. For more information, discuss this treatment option with a dental professional. They may explain the specific ways you could benefit from SureSmile treatment.
Learn More About SureSmile Aligners in Westbury, NY
At JM Dental of Westbury, we can evaluate the condition of your smile and determine if you may be a candidate for SureSmile aligners instead of braces. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 516-334-3444 to request an appointment. As a bonus, mention our blog/website and we’ll include whitening at no additional cost!