Regular trips to the dentist and brushing and flossing your teeth and gums as recommended are important steps to take if you want a healthy and appealing smile. Unfortunately, certain issues cannot be fixed on their own and require a more involved form of treatment. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces and aligners, are effective for realigning bites and straightening teeth, but you may not realize which type of treatment is right for you. This guide will help you learn the signs that clear orthodontic aligners are the answer.

You Are Responsible

Traditional metal braces are affixed to your teeth, so they cannot be removed. This ensures your teeth are moved or shifted without any interruptions.

Orthodontic aligners work differently – they can be removed, and they actually should be removed during certain times. You will receive a set of aligners. Each one should be worn for a specific period of time, then changed, allowing the aligner system to work together to move the teeth into the correct position.

If you are not responsible or capable of following a schedule, the orthodontic aligner system will not be effective. Therefore, aligners are only recommended for responsible teenagers and adults who are capable of following the system's instructions.

You Are Concerned About Your Appearance

Traditional metal braces are quite noticeable on your teeth. When you smile, they may be the first thing people notice. Braces may be common and a form of treatment you should not be ashamed about, but they can still affect your appearance and your self-esteem.

If you are concerned about your appearance, consider the clear orthodontic aligners. While not technically "invisible," they are clear and less visible than traditional metal braces. For many people, they are the ideal option for correcting bites and crooked teeth without having a smile full of metal brackets and wires.

You Want Flexibility

Finally, if you want an orthodontic treatment that is flexible, aligners are the answer.

For example, there may be times when you do not want to wear the aligners. If you have an important meeting, audition, or dinner, you can choose the remove the aligners for a short period of time. This will affect the length of your treatment, but it can be a great option to consider.

Also, because they are removable, you have the option of taking the aligners out before eating certain foods. This helps you not only maintain the aligners, but also your underlying oral health.

Talk with your dentist or orthodontist to learn more about invisible aligners.