Clear aligners have taken the dental world by storm, offering an exciting, modern, and effective alternative to traditional braces for achieving that coveted Hollywood smile – courtesy of discreetly straightened teeth 😉.
These transparent, custom-fit trays gently guide your pearlies to their desired positions, earning them the ‘invisible braces’ nickname (a justified label, if you ask our clients). Further, they’re removable when it’s time to eat, brush, or floss, adding to their appeal.
The real magic, though, stems from the high-tech thermoplastic materials used to craft these orthodontic appliances. Being highly flexible yet strong, these innovative compounds can be tailor-made to work – minutely – on correcting individual wearers’ jaw/teeth misalignment (malocclusion).
In this blog, we’ll look at the specialized and intricate manufacturing process behind making these therapeutic dental marvels.
So, if you’re considering clear braces – another name – for amending your teeth displacements, this intel can be priceless (if only for giving you the peace of mind that you’re making the right choice 👍).
Onward.
A Comment On How Clear Aligners Work Their Spell
After taking a patient’s dental impressions using advanced 3D imaging tech (what we do/oversee at ClearPath Ortho) or traditional putty (the conventional, slightly less precise approach), certified orthodontists chart a complete treatment plan for the prospective wearer.
Here, the consultant gives their specialist recommendation on the number of clear aligner trays needed (typically 20 to 50) to correct the malocclusion, the treatment duration, along with other important guidelines for achieving the best results.
Each tray in the series is slightly different from the one before, and you’ll typically wear each for around two weeks before moving on to the next.
At the end of the treatment course, and after you’ve had a stint with retainers, you’ll be set for a lifetime of beautiful, straight teeth and no-guilt smiles and laughter!
What are the Materials Used for Making Custom Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are crafted from high-quality, safe, medical-grade thermoplastic materials that boast flexibility, durability, and wearer biocompatibility. This means it won’t trigger any allergic reactions or mouth irritations – which is very important for sensitive wearers.
What’s more, this material is (or should be: what ClearPath Ortho ensures) both BPA-free and FDA-approved, guaranteeing your safety, aesthetic well-being, and treatment efficacy throughout the teeth straightening journey.
Now, various thermoplastic compounds are used for clear aligner production, each with its own properties and characteristics.
Some of the most common ones are:
Polycarbonate
This is a tough, sturdy, durable, and nearly invisible plastic that can take a wearer’s dental beating without flinching. Plus, it’s super flexible when it comes to shaping, making it perfect for tackling complex tooth shifts.
Polyurethane Resins
Polyurethane (copolyester) resins are known for their high elasticity and transparency. They fit snugly on your teeth and gums, providing comfort and a smooth surface. Additionally, Zendura resins – a specialized variant – bring increased flexibility and moldability to clear aligners, ensuring they fit comfortably and apply the right amount of pressure for effective teeth alignment.
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE)
Polypropylene is a robust and mouldable material that can endure high temperatures, stains, chemicals, and bacteria, making it ideal for plastic aligners manufacture. Further, it allows for easy mouth insertion and removal while maintaining shape throughout the alignment treatment process.
Plastic Care and Maintenance
To ensure your clear aligners remain effective and hygienic throughout your treatment, it’s important to know how to take care of them.
Here are the two things you need to ensure:
Proper Cleaning
Cleaning your aligners, thankfully, is a breeze – especially when you compare them with metal braces 😬. To do this, rinse them with lukewarm water and use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently remove any debris. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
Avoid Staining
Be cautious with what you consume while wearing your aligners. Dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can stain them. So, it’s best to remove them when consuming anything other than water.
Book Your ClearPath Invisible Aligners TODAY!
In the world of orthodontics, clear aligners have simply revolutionized the way we think about and approach teeth straightening.
With their impressive manufacturing materials profiles, technological precision, and dental customization attributes, they offer an exciting path to a straighter, more beautiful smile for just about everyone.
Whether you’re a teenager looking for a discreet way to correct your teeth or an adult seeking a subtle solution for aligning your face’s most prominent feature, our clear braces have got you covered.
Here’s how you can book yours 🤓:
Fill in the form at the bottom ✍ – our friendly customer service reps will guide you through the works (make everything quick and simple).
And that’s it!
Your lifetime of celebrity, perfect smiling, and dental symmetry await!
Some FAQs
Here are some common questions concerning clear aligner materials that we get asked on occasion – along with their responses:
Q. How much do clear aligners cost?
Please read our ‘Clear Aligners Price in Pakistan‘ piece for details.
Q. How long does clear aligner treatment take?
The duration of clear aligner treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all – it depends on the complexity of your case and how faithfully you follow the plan.
Generally, it takes about 12 to 18 months, but individual cases can be quicker or longer. Sticking to the recommended wear time (20 to 22 hours a day) and not misplacing any sets can help speed up your progress.
Q. How do I clean my clear aligners?
To keep your clear aligners in tip-top shape, remember to clean them every time you remove or reinsert them.
A soft toothbrush, mild soap or toothpaste, and lukewarm water make for the perfect cleaning combo. Avoid hot water or strong chemicals, as they might harm your aligners.
Q. Can I drink coffee or tea with my clear aligners on?
It’s best to stick with water when you have them on – other beverages like coffee, tea, and juice can potentially stain both your aligners and your teeth.
If you’re craving a sip of these goodies, take out your aligners, have your drink, and rinse your mouth with water thoroughly before popping them back in.
Q. Can I chew gum with my clear aligners?
When it comes to gum, it’s a no-go with your clear aligners. Gum can get stuck and mess with their shape.
But, if you’re really craving a gum-chewing moment, just take out your aligners, put them in their case, and go ahead.
Q. Can I smoke with my clear aligners on?
Smoking can have detrimental effects on both your treatment and overall oral health. Also, it can lead to noticeable staining on your aligners due to the tar and nicotine in cigarettes and other tobacco products. What’s worse, smoking can trap smoke (carbon) particles against your teeth and gums, making things even more hygienic.
Have any queries related to our clear aligners manufacturing process?
Comment below – we’ll get back from our experts! 🤓
