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Types of Dental Braces that Work for You

Everyone feels the same way about misaligned teeth – it sucks. Not only can it make you feel conscious about your appearance, but it can also cause you pain and discomfort in your jaw, teeth, and mouth. Luckily, proper teeth alignment is now made easier and achievable for you – thanks to different types of dental braces

For sure, many of us have already heard about dental braces. You may probably know someone who underwent or is currently in dental braces treatment

Braces are dental tools composed of small brackets that are connected through wires and placed on your teeth. Braces gently put pressure on your teeth to gradually move them into their desired and proper position. 

Braces are an effective device that fixes dental problems, correct jaw function, and improve your appearance. Dental problems that braces fix include:

  • Teeth crowding
  • Wide dental gaps
  • Various bite problems such as open bite, crossbite, underbite, and overbite

How Dental Braces Work?

Braces work by applying constant pressure to your teeth during the duration of your treatment. This pressure will slowly move your teeth into their proper and desired position. 

The bony socket under each of your teeth moves and adapts to its new position too because of the constant pressure being applied. 

Most people who have dental braces experience inflammation in their gums, right? 

This is our body’s immune response to heal wounds and injuries. This inflammation allows certain biochemical processes necessary for teeth moving and adjusting to take place. 

What are the types of dental braces?

Planning on getting dental braces? Lucky for you, numerous types of braces are available for you. 

Metal Braces

This is the traditional and most common type of braces. Usually made of stainless steel or titanium, metal braces use metal brackets that are connected through metal wires and fixed on your teeth. Rubber bands may be also included to create more pressure and move your teeth. 

Metal braces are cost-effective types of braces – the least expensive yet effective. However, metal braces are the most noticeable type of braces and can cause you pain and discomfort.

Ceramic Braces

Want a dental brace that is the same color as your natural teeth? Ceramic braces are the one for you. 

Ceramic braces are very similar to metal braces in terms of size, shapes, how they work, and duration of treatment. The only difference is that the brackets in this are ceramic-made that mimics the color of your teeth.

Ceramic braces are preferred by some over metal braces since these are less noticeable. However, they can be easily stained when neglected and can be changed only on your next dental visit.

 

Self-Ligating Braces

This is also very similar to metal braces; except that it uses metal brackets with built-in clips to hold the wire of the brace in place instead of the ligatures or colored elastic band. 

It moves and slowly adjusts your teeth on its own; thus fewer visits to your dentist. This is much easier to clean too. However, this is also expensive and noticeable like metal braces.

 

Lingual-type Braces

Now, if you want dental braces that are harder to see and notice, you may want to consider lingual-type braces. 

The brackets in lingual-type braces are attached to the back part of your teeth. They work the same as metal and ceramic braces. 

However, these are the most expensive type of braces which requires an orthodontist’s expertise. These are also difficult to clean, making you prone to dental plaque, and can cause discomfort on your tongue. 

 

Clear Aligner Braces

The four types of braces mentioned above are all fixed braces – meaning only your dentist can remove and adjust them. Most people experience a certain amount of pain and discomfort with fixed braces. 

Now there are removable braces that will give you much comfort and flexibility you need. These are clear aligner braces that are becoming a popular treatment option to fix various dental problems.

Clear aligners use a series of transparent custom-made trays that allow the movement of teeth to their desired position. These are made from plastic materials which are smoother and more comfortable in the mouth. 

Clear aligner braces are clear and almost invisible. You don’t need to worry about changes in your appearance. You can confidently and freely flash your smile. 

Also, they are removable. You can get your teeth straightened without having to worry about what food to eat. Cleaning your teeth will also be easier. You are less prone to plaque accumulation and gingivitis. 

Now when it comes to clear aligner braces, many dental clinics offer their service but only a few study your case, and the features of your face – ensuring that you get the smile that you deserve and unique only to you.

Meet ALINA Invisible Braces

ALINA Invisible Braces is one of the fastest-growing, trusted, and convenient providers of clear aligners here in the Philippines. 

With almost 30 years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, ALINA studies your facial features extensively and uses the latest dental scanning technology – making sure that your teeth are properly aligned and you have the one-of-a-kind perfect smile. 

Orthodontists at ALINA are experts and friendly too! Their focus is to make sure that you are confident flashing that beautiful smile of yours. 

ALINA will also give you the smile you deserve at your convenience. 3D scanning of your teeth can be done at your home. Your aligner trays will be shipped right to your door. 

To learn more, book an online consultation with ALINA. Just visit this link and get your perfect smile journey started.  You can also try our Smile Simulation and see what your ALINA smile could look like.

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Do You Have To Wear Teeth Aligners Forever?

So, you’re getting teeth aligners. Congratulations! You’re now getting closer to bringing out that beautiful smile. 

But, is it true that you have to wear your dental aligners forever? How long does it take to complete the treatment? These are just some of the few questions we usually get during the initial consultation. 

In today’s blog post, let’s find out some of the factors that can affect the duration of your orthodontic treatment. Let’s also compare the most popular teeth straightening options available today. 

Hopefully, this article can help you understand this treatment process and help you make more informed decisions. 

Why do you need dental aligners or braces? 

Do you still take selfies with your lips closed? Are you getting conscious when smiling or talking to people because of crooked teeth? Do you experience pain or discomfort when biting or chewing food? If so, you should see a qualified dentist or an orthodontist. 

Dental aligners or braces can treat crooked or misaligned teeth. In addition to aesthetic factors, this orthodontic treatment can also help improve your overall oral health. Our trusted dental professionals at ALINA can help determine the perfect teeth alignment treatment for you. 

Here are some of the possible reasons you might need dental aligners or braces: 

Crowding 

This is one of the reasons our dentist may recommend getting teeth aligners. If there’s not enough roof in your mouth for all your teeth, then this could be a crowding issue. 

Left untreated, crowded teeth can lead to numerous oral health problems, such as gum disease, tooth damage, and chewing difficulties. 

Dental aligners can help solve this problem. Additionally, correcting crowded teeth can also help brighten your smile! 

Spacing

Are you bothered by your irregularly shaped teeth that create wide gaps when you smile? There’s no need to worry! ALINA can help reclaim your smile. 

And if you think those gaps between your teeth are just cosmetic problems, think again. This can also lead to numerous dental problems like gum problems, cavities, tooth decay, and bad breath. 

Overbite 

If you experience your bottom teeth bite into the roof of your mouth or completely disappear when you bite, you might be dealing with a pronounced overbite. Left untreated, overbites can also cause numerous issues, including damage to your gums and front teeth. 

Our dental experts can improve your smile by fixing your overbite with the help of custom-fit aligner braces. 

Underbite 

If your lower teeth overlap your front teeth when you smile, you might be dealing with underbite problems. Depending on the severity of the underbite, complications can range from mild to severe, which can also take a toll on your health and wellness. 

In some cases, an underbite can cause chronic jaw pain, headaches, toothaches, dizziness, and even hearing problems. If your underbite is due to misaligned teeth, dental aligners or braces can help correct this problem.

Open bite 

If you notice a gap between your upper and lower teeth, then you might be dealing with an open bite problem. People dealing with this bite problem often experience eating and speech difficulties. 

How long do you need to wear your aligners? 

If you have removable clear aligners or dental aligners, you should wear them for at least 22 hours every day to achieve desired results. 

You can only remove them when you need to eat, brush or floss your teeth. You should also avoid wearing your aligners when drinking dark beverages like coffee or soda. 

On average, it may take 6 to 12 months or even more to complete the treatment, depending on the severity of the condition. 

Common teeth alignment issues and duration of the treatment

Dental aligners are not one-size-fits-all solutions. The treatment plan and its duration depend from one case to another. Here are common alignment issues that removable aligners can treat:

Dental aligners to close gaps

Aligners can close small or minor gaps in 6 to 7 weeks. However, keep in mind that your dentist may also require wearing retainers after completing your aligners to achieve decent results.  

Dental aligners for crowded teeth 

For mild cases of crowded teeth, you may need to wear aligners for 6 months. For severe cases of crowding, your dentist may recommend using headgear or removing some teeth. 

Dental aligners for misaligned teeth 

Correcting misaligned teeth is one of the reasons your dentist may require you to wear aligners. On average, fixing misaligned teeth with dental aligners may take 1 to 2 years, depending on the severity of your condition. 

Clear aligners vs braces 

To help you make more informed decisions, here’s a brief comparison of clear aligners vs traditional braces:

Advantages of clear aligners 

Aesthetic factor:

Clear aligners or invisible braces are less noticeable than traditional or metal braces. 

No food restrictions:

Since clear aligners are removable, there will be no food restrictions. Just make sure to remove your aligners before eating. So, yes! You can get back that beautiful smile and still eat your favorite food! 

Hygiene:

Again, since clear aligners are removable, brushing or flossing your teeth is much easier! 

Appointments:

Thanks to advanced technological advancements, you can expect fewer dental visits. At ALINA, the process is simple and convenient. After your consultation, our scanning team will go to your place to take your dental impressions. 

From there, our highly skilled dental technicians can now design and construct your aligners. Once done, we can now deliver your aligners to your doorstep. Since your teeth slowly adjust, expect to get a new set of aligners every month until you complete the treatment. 

Comfort:

Many patients also say that clear aligners are also more comfortable than metal braces. Metal wirings and brackets fixed to your teeth can cause irritation in your mouth.

On the other hand, clear aligners are made of polyurethane resin plastic, which makes this option more comfortable. And since clear aligners are removable, you are more likely less prone to injuries when engaging in physical activities or contact sports. 

Advantages of metal braces 

  • Applicable to all cases: Clear aligners can only work in mild to moderate cases. On the other hand, metal braces can also treat some severe cases of misaligned and crooked teeth. 
  • Compliance: Since they are fixed to your teeth, there’s no reason to forget to wear them or lose them. 
  • Cost: Metal braces are usually more affordable than other types of dental aligners.

Disadvantages of metal braces

  • Hygiene: Performing oral hygiene can be challenging as metal braces are fixed to your teeth. 
  • Diet: With metal trays attached to your teeth, you may need to adjust your diet. Hard food can get stuck to those metal trays and wirings, which can cause damage and affect the treatment progress. 
  • Comfort: Generally, metal braces are more likely to cause discomfort than removable aligners. Having metal wires attached to your teeth also makes you more prone to injuries, especially when you play sports. 
  • Appearance: Some patients get self-conscious about having metal brackets fixed to their teeth. They are quite noticeable since they are made up of metal wiring and brackets. 
  • Appointments: Metal braces require more appointments as the dentist needs to adjust the brackets and wirings when your teeth move or shift. 

Are you ready for the perfect teeth alignment? ALINA has you covered. We have a dynamic team of dental experts who are well-versed in designing invisible aligners that don’t only straighten your teeth, but also make you more beautiful. 

ALINA Aligners utilize the latest in 3-D scanning and printing with AI technology to create that perfect smile that complements your facial features. With ALINA, you can be assured you’re on track for a smile that attracts. 
Click here to book a virtual consult with us and begin your ALINA journey today.

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Are teeth aligners better than braces?

Your dentist may have probably already discussed braces and teeth aligners with you as treatment options for fixing your misaligned teeth. 

And as you learned about the advantages of teeth aligners and began to consider them as the best treatment for you, you may have asked yourself, are teeth aligners better than braces? Which one will give the perfect smile you deserve faster and less hassle?

Let’s find out!

But first, what are teeth aligners? 

These days, getting your misaligned teeth straight can be done without the traditional braces or undergoing invasive procedures. 

Teeth aligners, also known as clear aligners or invisible braces, are becoming a popular alternative to metal braces thanks to the comfort and convenience it gives compared to traditional braces. 

Teeth aligners use a series of 3D-printed transparent custom-made aligners that allow the movement of teeth to their desired position. It can fix mild to moderate dental problems including:

  • Crowded teeth
  • Overbite
  • Crossbite 
  • Underbite
  • Wide space gaps 

Your series of teeth aligner trays are not a copy of your current teeth position but their future position. It gradually moves and guides them into different positions until the desired result is achieved. 

You have to wear your teeth aligners no less than 22 hours per day for it t. Your aligner trays are changed and updated every 2 weeks or so. 

Are teeth aligners better than braces?

Although it would still depend on the complexity and severity of your dental problems, teeth aligners provide plenty of benefits that make them more preferable than traditional braces such as metal and ceramic braces. 

Teeth aligners give you more comfort and flexibility. 

Pain and discomfort in the tongue and mouth are a very common concern among those who wear metal and ceramic braces. 

Why? These traditional braces are fixed on your mouth and made of wires and brackets that might get loose and broken, poke your cheeks and tongues, and cause wounds. 

But with teeth aligners, you don’t need to worry about this. 

Orthodontic patients who underwent teeth aligners treatment appear to feel lower levels of pain than those who wore fixed braces. 

For the most part, teeth aligners will give you a more comfortable treatment experience because your aligner trays are made of plastics that are smoother and lighter than the materials used with metal and ceramic braces. 

And in case you’ll feel pain and discomfort, expect it to be mild and won’t interfere with your daily routine. It will be nothing compared to the pain that traditional braces will give you. 

Aside from comfort, teeth aligners will give you the flexibility you need, unlike traditional braces!

Your aligner trays are entirely and easily removable compared to metal and ceramic braces that are fixed and only your dentist can adjust and remove. 

Those wearing traditional braces have to limit their diet and avoid certain foods that may get stuck in their brackets and damage their braces. With clear aligners, you can remove them anytime and not have to think twice about what to eat.

Teeth aligners treatment is effective and somehow faster. 

Want to immediately fix your misaligned teeth? Teeth aligners can do that for you. 

Going with teeth aligners treatment can be worth it because it effectively straightens your teeth and fixes other mild to moderate dental problems in a much shorter time compared to metal and ceramic braces. 

You’ll wear each of your aligner trays for three weeks or so. Each tray gently pushes your teeth to the right position. 

Teeth aligners treatment typically takes about 6 to 12 months (depending on the case) which is faster compared to metal and ceramic braces which usually last 1-3 years.

You need to wear your aligner trays no less than 22 hours per day for them to be effective. 

And also, keep in mind that severe and complex cases might be better addressed by fixed braces. 

Teeth aligners give you a better appearance

Let’s admit it, metal and ceramic braces have wires and brackets that can be easily noticed and distracting sometimes, making you feel anxious or attract unwanted attention. 

Teeth aligners offer treatment in achieving straighter teeth that are not only effective and comfortable but also allow you to maintain a less distracting appearance. 

Teeth aligners are clear and almost invisible. Unlike braces that are fixed on you, you can remove your aligners should you need to.  

However, keep in mind that failure to wear your aligner trays for a few hours in a row may result in huge setbacks and delays in your progress. 

Teeth aligners provide you with better oral hygiene

A properly aligned set of teeth would be irrelevant if you have poor oral health and hygiene. Proper oral hygiene is better maintained with teeth aligners compared to metal and ceramic braces.

Since metal and ceramic braces are fixed on your mouth, cleaning your teeth (brushing, flossing, etc) is much more challenging and requires extra time and effort. 

With teeth aligners, brushing and flossing your teeth will remain the same as normal because your aligner trays are removable. You can also clean your aligner trays thoroughly too. 

This makes teeth aligners better with metal and ceramic braces. With teeth aligners, the chances of you accumulating dental plaque on your teeth and developing gingivitis are low compared to wearing metal and ceramic braces. 

Teeth aligners have made fixing some dental problems much easier and more comfortable. 

And in getting teeth aligners, it is important to talk to professionals who can bring out the beautiful smile that’s unique only to you.

Meet ALINA Invisible Braces. 

Compared to other aligners, ALINA studies the symmetry of your face, the shape of your jaw, and the angle of your teeth – ensuring that your smile is designed to complement your facial features.

ALINA will give you your beautiful smile at your convenience.

Taking the 3-D image of your teeth? We will come to you for your scan. Your ALINA Invisible Braces will be shipped right to your door within 7 days. 

Visit this link and get your perfect smile journey started. You can also try our Smile Simulation and see what your ALINA smile could look like.

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Why Clear Aligners Fail In Straightening Your Teeth And How To Avoid It

Your main goal as an orthodontic patient is to achieve the best and correct teeth alignment after your treatment.  After all, fixing misaligned teeth takes a great amount of your time, money, and effort. 

Aside from the traditional braces, there are now other dental braces options and procedures that fix misaligned teeth but are less invasive and easier, comfortable, and patient-friendly. One of these is clear aligners. 

Clear aligners and their Benefits

Clear aligners are one of the alternative options for metal braces which are now becoming more popular thanks to various advantages they can give to your whole teeth alignment journey. 

With clear aligners, you will be given a series of custom-made trays which will gently and slowly move your teeth to their desired proper position. Clear aligners are recommended for correcting various mild to complex dental problems such as crooked teeth, bite problems, and wide dental gaps. 

Your aligner trays are made from smooth and light plastic materials which are comfortable on your mouth, unlike metal braces that are fixed on your teeth and may cause pain and discomfort. 

Another good thing about clear aligners is that they can be removed easily and entirely! It can give you the comfort and flexibility you need to do the following:

Maintain good and proper oral hygiene.

You can brush and floss your teeth regularly and normally. No need to exert extra time and effort unlike when you have metal braces. Ideal whenever you’re in a hurry and if you are already tired at night and want to go to bed immediately. 

Eat and drink (almost) everything.

You don’t have to modify your diet and avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods when you have clear aligners. No need to worry about foods that may get stuck between your teeth and brackets and damage your metal braces. 

Flash your smile more confidently.

Let’s admit it, one of the reasons why you are hesitant in getting metal braces is because they can be distracting and even unappealing. It certainly affects your overall confidence. 

Well, you can definitely consider clear aligners as they are almost invisible – making your entire treatment procedure less noticeable. 

However, despite its many advantages, clear aligners may fail to straighten your teeth after your treatment duration. 

Complications may arise that may impede or negatively disrupt your progress. Considering your teeth and smile are one of your features that people notice immediately, the last thing you want to do is mess it up. 

Find out what may cause your clear aligners to fail in straightening your teeth and how to avoid them. 

Your clear aligners are not properly fitted.

Your clear aligners may fail to fix your alignment problem because they are not properly fitted to you. You may notice visible gaps and air bubbles between your teeth and the aligner tray. Another instance is one of the dental arches may fit seamlessly but the other one does not. 

Fortunately, this won’t be the case with ALINA. ALINA aligners use the latest 3-D technology and AI to ensure a snug fit and a smile that complements your facial features.

Not wearing it at least 22 hours a day and other compliance issues. 

It is important to wear your aligners trays no less than 22 hours per day for it to be effective. 

Your teeth have a strong tendency to move back to their previous positions. Although one of its advantages is that it is removable,  keep in mind that your trays won’t be able to successfully give the desired outcome on time if you will wear them for less than the recommended 22 hours per day. 

When it comes to dental hygiene, you should frequently and properly clean not just your teeth but also your aligner trays too. 

Also, avoid eating, drinking, and smoking while wearing your aligner trays. Doing these things may discolor your aligners, making them gross and unwearable. 

Losing and breaking an aligner tray will also impede your treatment progress. 

Your case is not for clear aligners. 

Although clear aligners provide an effective, fast, and much more comfortable dental treatment experience compared to other options, there are some extremely complex cases that may need a more traditional approach. 

Severe and complex dental problems and too-rotated teeth are better addressed by traditional braces. 

On the other hand, changes in your case during your treatment that your orthodontist may have not anticipated during the planning of your clear aligner treatment might happen. 

So it is important to always check in with your orthodontist during your routine appointments so that s/he can revisit and revise your treatment plan. 

Your orthodontist fails to give you the appropriate and best care you deserve. 

Communication between a patient and an orthodontist is essential for every dental treatment journey to be successful. 

After expressing the complications mentioned above that you might encounter and your orthodontist continuously fails to provide you with accurate aligner trays that fit and make necessary adjustments, it’s probably time to look for another orthodontist. 

In the Philippines, ALINA Aligners is becoming a known and reputable provider of clear aligners that will give you the correct and best teeth alignment treatment. 

With almost 30 years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, ALINA studies your facial features extensively and uses the latest dental scanning technology – making sure that your teeth are properly aligned and you have the one-of-a-kind perfect smile. 

Orthodontists at ALINA are experts and friendly too! Their focus is to make sure that you are confident flashing that beautiful smile of yours. 

ALINA will also give you the smile you deserve at your convenience. 3D scanning of your teeth can be done at your home. Your aligner trays will be shipped right to your door. 

Visit this link and get your perfect smile journey started. You can also try our Smile Simulation and see what your ALINA smile could look like.

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Are Clear Aligners for Everyone?

Many teeth alignment braces are now available in fixing the misaligned teeth that bother you. One of them is clear aligners treatment, which is becoming a popular alternative to traditional braces due to the many benefits it gives. 

However, have you ever wondered if clear aligners treatment is for everyone? Continue reading to find out. 

What are clear aligners?

Clear aligners use a series of transparent custom-made plastic aligners that allow the movement of your teeth to their perfect desired position. It corrects various mild to moderate dental and bite problems such as crowded teeth, overbite, crooked teeth, and wide space gaps. 

Clear aligners straighten misaligned teeth without the hassle and discomfort of wearing traditional braces or undergoing invasive dental procedures. 

Benefits of clear aligners

You may have already heard or read about the many benefits clear aligners give in one’s journey to straighter teeth. And it’s true, dental treatment with clear aligners is much easier, more comfortable, and more flexible compared with traditional braces. 

1. Comfort and flexibility. Of course, you want to be in the best comfort while getting your teeth aligned. Clear aligners are definitely the one for you. 

Clear aligners are more comfortable because they are made of plastic that is smoother and lighter. No heavy and rough brackets and wires, unlike metal braces which are uncomfortable and might cause canker sores and wounds in your mouth. 

It will also offer you the flexibility you need. Clear aligners are not fixed on your teeth and mouth and can be easily removed whenever you eat, drink, or clean your teeth. 

2. Faster. Afraid of the long treatment duration of metal braces? Clear aligners can give you an immediate fix to your misaligned teeth. Clear aligner treatment duration is much shorter compared to traditional braces. 

3. Better Appearance. Anxious about the distracting and unappealing brackets and wires from metal braces? 

Luckily, clear aligners are almost invisible and less noticeable. So you can now go on dates and social gatherings and flash your beautiful smile without hesitation!

4. Better Oral Hygiene. Aligning your teeth would be in vain if you have poor oral health and hygiene.  

With clear aligners treatment, oral hygiene is much better and achievable as compared with traditional braces treatment. Why? Cleaning your teeth (brushing and flossing) is much easier because your aligner trays can be removed. 

With regular and proper brushing and flossing, you will not accumulate dental plaque, or have gingivitis and other gum diseases while using clear aligners. 

How do clear aligners straighten your teeth? 

Wondering how exactly clear aligners are straightening your teeth? Well, just like traditional teeth braces, clear aligners work by applying pressure to your teeth which gradually and carefully move them into a new desired position. 

However, fixing your misaligned teeth with clear aligners is much easier and more convenient. It usually follows these easy steps:

1. Scanning of your teeth. To better assess your dental problem, your orthodontist will first do a 3D scanning of your teeth. After this, your aligner trays will be fabricated using a 3D printer. 

2. Wearing of aligner trays. You will wear multiple sets of aligner trays which will move your teeth a couple of millimeters. Keep in mind that these are a model of the future position of your teeth, not the current.

3. Feeling pressure and inflammation. As you wear your aligner trays, pressure will be applied to your teeth in order to move them. Inflammation in your gums is expected as your teeth move gradually. 

But relax, this inflammation is necessary as it will allow biochemical processes in your dental bones, which are essential to your treatment, to take place. 

How long should you wear your clear aligners? 

Ideally, you have to wear each of your aligner trays for a week or two. And in order for it to be effective, you should wear your aligner trays no less than 22 hours per day. 

Clear aligners are removable, making eating and cleaning your teeth easier and more comfortable. 

However, you will not successfully get the desired outcome you are expecting from clear aligners if you fail to wear them for 22 hours a day. Keep in mind that our teeth have a strong tendency to move back to their previous position. With clear aligners, consistency is significant. 

Clear aligner treatment lasts usually about 6 to 12 months (depending on the case). 

Who Can’t Wear Clear Aligners?

Despite its many benefits when it comes to fixing misaligned teeth, there are some cases and situations that may make your orthodontist decide to go with other dental treatments instead of clear aligners. This includes the following:

  • Severe overbite and dental problems. Traditional braces such as metal braces may be the most efficient and appropriate treatment to address severe and complex dental problems such as severe overbite and large dental gaps. 
  • Tooth shape. Too-short or pegged teeth can prevent clear aligners from working properly. 
  • Tooth position. Clear aligners cannot shift too-rotated teeth in proper alignment. 
  • Smokers. Patients who smoke and are not willing to stop during treatment should not decide to go with clear aligners as smoking may cause discoloration of aligner trays. 
  • Children. Clear aligners are best for adults or teens. Fixing dental problems among children is more complicated. Their mouths are still growing and developing. Also, they are too young to follow the steps needed in taking care of clear aligner trays. 
  • Not willing to wear aligners for 22 hours a day. Clear aligners treatment requires consistency and dedication. Aligner trays need to be worn at least 22 hours per day for them to be effective. 

Your orthodontist will have a better opinion on whether or not you should get clear aligners in fixing your misaligned teeth. 

In the Philippines, ALINA Invisible Braces is one of the fastest-growing, trusted, and most convenient providers of clear aligners. Looking for a smile that complements your facial features and is uniquely designed for you? ALINA can give you that!

ALINA corrects your dental issues while considering your facial symmetry, balance, the shape of your jaw, and the angle of your teeth. 
To learn more, book an online consultation with ALINA and get your perfect smile journey started.

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Can Aligners Damage Teeth: Oral Care During Teeth Alignment 

“I am thinking about getting aligners but I’m afraid it might damage my teeth.”

“Can aligners damage my teeth?” 

This is one of the most frequent questions we get from our new patients during their initial consultation. So, let’s be clear once and for all and talk about what really happens during your teeth alignment treatment. 

Dealing with Crooked or Misaligned Teeth is NOT Fun at All! 

For most people, dealing with crowded, crooked, or misaligned teeth is never easy. These oral problems can greatly affect the quality of life. For example, people with misaligned teeth usually experience discomfort while eating or chewing their food. 

In addition, a lot of people today, particularly teenagers, feel self-conscious about having crooked teeth. Most of them are even afraid to smile or avoid social interactions. This lack of confidence may also impact their mental wellness. 

Other health issues related to crooked or misaligned teeth include the following: 

  • Periodontal disease (tooth decay and gum disease)
  • Chewing or digestion problems
  • Speech difficulties 
  • Potential wear and tear
  • Self-esteem 

Dental Aligners & Proper Teeth Alignment 

Teeth alignment without braces? Is that possible? 

Yes! With ALINA, teeth alignment without braces is possible. You can expect less pain and fewer dental visits. 

ALINA specializes in aesthetics and cosmetic dentistry. We design and manufacture clear aligners that will bring out your beautiful smile.

Through the years, our team has never stopped innovating our methods to elevate our products and services. We use the most advanced technology to provide our patients with quality invisible braces. 

How it works

Aligners work by putting pressure on your teeth, which slowly improves the alignment of your teeth. During the treatment, the bone under your teeth slowly changes shape. The steps involved in your treatment will depend on the types of aligners you choose. 

So, here’s the usual process when you decide to get dental aligners from ALINA: 

Step 1: Booking an Appointment or Consultation 

Booking an appointment or consultation is easy. You can do this online or via phone call. We conduct online consultations– so, there’s no need to travel! And since time is always an issue for most patients, our dental team can work around your schedule. This means you can choose your time slot for your online consultation! 

What happens here?

During the online consultation, our dentists will just ask a few questions to know more about you and your condition. They will focus more on your concerns and desired goals. 

What to expect:

Here are some of the questions you can expect them to ask you:

  • Are you experiencing discomfort or pain when you chew or eat food? 
  • Do you have dental fillings, crowns, or veneers? 
  • Are you dealing with any dental problems? 
  • Did you have oral surgeries before? 

The objective here is to assess your condition and determine your goals. Our dental team will also help you set realistic expectations during the initial consultation phase. This includes the timeline for your teeth trainer alignment treatment. 

Step 2: Dental Scanning 

After the online consultation, we can now schedule a scan appointment. Again, there’s no need for dental visits. Instead, our dental team will come to you to perform the procedure for you, which should only take a few minutes. 

What happens here? 

Our dental experts use advanced dental imaging devices to get accurate measurements of your mouth and teeth. At this point, our dentist also creates a detailed dental impression for your aligners. 

What to expect:

  • Quick and simple procedure 
  • No pain or discomfort when getting measurements 
  • Follow-up instructions from ALINA’s dental experts 

Step 3: Designing & Manufacturing 

The next step is to design and create your aligners based on the impressions provided by the dentist. 

What happens here?

Our certified dental technicians use state-of-the-art cosmetic dental tools to create quality aligners only for you. In addition, our dental team also conducts quality checks to ensure proper teeth alignment. 

What to expect:

  • Quality materials 
  • Custom-fit
  • Comfort 

Step 4: Delivered Right to your Doorstep! 

For your safety, comfort, and convenience, we will also deliver your aligners right at your doorstep! Our team will also give you some instructions to ensure correct teeth alignment. 

What to expect:

Since your teeth move or change positions, expect to get a new set of aligners every month until you complete the treatment. Yes, you will also receive them right at your doorstep! 

Can Dental Aligners Really Damage Your Teeth? 

Going back to the question, the most straightforward answer is yes. Dental aligners can possibly damage your teeth through malpractice or mistreatment. That’s why it’s important to choose a reputable dental clinic or virtual dentist, especially if you’re considering at-home aligners. 

In addition, be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid future problems. Here at ALINA, our dental team will guide you every step of the way. We will consistently monitor your progress to make sure you’re in the right direction. 

Oral Care Tips During the Treatment

  • Keep in mind that you need to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours daily. 
  • Since invisible braces from ALINA are completely removable, proper brushing or flossing should be easy. 
  • Always remove your aligners before you eat. 
  • Avoid drinking dark beverages while wearing your clear aligners. 
  • Enjoy your aligners! One of the perks of choosing ALINA’s invisible braces is there are no food restrictions! You can simply remove your aligners and eat whatever you want! 

Are you ready to become the best version of yourself? We’re here to help you! 

At ALINA, we combine our expertise in aesthetics and cosmetic dentistry with innovative tools and equipment to achieve your desired results. 

Our team goes above and beyond addressing your dental problems. The goal is to make you feel and look more beautiful. 

Convinced yet? Click here to start your ALINA journey. 

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How Do I Know if Invisible Braces are Right for Me?

So, you’ve heard a lot of great results from wearing invisible braces. And now you’re thinking of investing in your teeth straightening treatment. If you want to get that perfect smile, this might be the best option for you! Now, let’s find out how you’d benefit from getting invisible orthodontic braces. 

What are Invisible Braces? 

Invisible braces is a series of clear trays, designed to improve misaligned or crooked teeth. First, your dentist needs to conduct a thorough exam and get your dental impressions. From there, a dental technician can now design and create your invisible braces. 

While invisible orthodontic braces are removable, keep in mind that you need to wear them at least 22 hours to achieve optimal results. You should only remove them when brushing or flossing your teeth or eating. 

You will likely receive a new set of aligners every 3 weeks, depending on the condition. For cases, teeth straightening invisible braces treatment can take at least 6 months to 1 year. 

Are you a Perfect Candidate for Alina Invisible Braces? 

Invisible braces or clear aligners’ popularity is on the rise in the Philippine market. While traditional metal braces is still widely used, more and more people are opting to go for the clearer and easier solution. We understand that some individuals don’t mind the biweekly dental visits, but if you’re someone who leads a busy lifestyle, then ALINA might just be what you need.

Here are some signs that can tell clear aligners are right for you:

You have alignment concerns about your teeth.

In most cases, aligners can fix misaligned or crooked teeth. It’s effective in correcting underbites, overbites, crossbites or open bites. Dentists and orthodontists may also recommend wearing aligners for patients with gaps or crowded teeth.

Reputable dental clinics require a thorough screening test to determine if the patient is qualified for aligners.

You live a busy life. 

Metal or traditional braces can be more time-consuming. They often require more frequent dental visits for adjustment or repairs. On the other hand, clear aligners involve a much simpler procedure and fewer dental check-ups. 

Additionally, aligners are easier to maintain and there are no food restrictions since you can easily remove them when eating. 

You’re responsible. 

Keep in mind that you need to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours every day to achieve the best results. If you are responsible enough to follow your dentist’s instructions, then wearing dental aligners won’t be a problem for you! 

You want straight teeth without the metal. 

Wearing metal braces can be quite uncomfortable for most people. And since they are fixed to your teeth, there are more food restrictions. Oral hygiene can be more challenging, as well. Other possible problems you may encounter with metal braces include: 

  • Broken or damaged wires
  • Loose brackets 
  • Broken or damaged rubber bands
  • Jaw pain 
  • Food stuck in braces
  • Mouth irritation

You are looking for a permanent solution. 

If you are looking for a long-term solution for your misaligned, crooked or crowded teeth, it’s time to consider dental or clear aligners. 

As long as you wear your aligners correctly and the recommended number of hours per day, you can win back your perfect smile! Take note that your dentist may require you to wear retainers after the treatment for better results. 

You get conscious with visible metal trays. 

One of the reasons many people choose invisible braces is because of the aesthetic factor. Aligners are made of clear trays,making them less noticeable compared to metal braces. 

If you get conscious with metal in your mouth, then you should definitely opt for clear aligners. 

You have the budget. 

As mentioned earlier, invisible braces in the Philippines can be more expensive than traditional braces. This is mainly because of the technology and lab work involved in manufacturing clear aligners. But if budget is not an issue, you should definitely choose invisible dental braces. 

However, there are also ways you can try to get clear aligners without putting holes into your pockets. Search online for promos and deals. This will help you improve your smile within your budget. 

Choose Alina Aligners 

With more than 30 years of experience in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, we are confident in delivering that beautiful smile that you’ve always wanted! ALINA Aligners don’t just straighten your teeth, we focus on the best smile that complements your facial features. 

Through our expertise and state-of-the-art technology, our team can carefully examine your facial features and symmetry, shape of your jaw and angle of your teeth. From there, we can customise a treatment plan that can give back that winning bright smile! So, what are you waiting for? Book your online consultation now!