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Month: August 2022

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Uncategorized

Award-winning Director Pancho Maniquis Tells Us What Wearing Invisible Braces Really Feels Like

Pancho as Alina Invisible Braces Patient

Hi! I’m Pancho, and I’ve had ALINA Invisible Braces for just a little over a month now.

I had traditional metal braces as a teenager, but improper retainer use led to my teeth being worse off than before. As an adult, I became very conscious of my teeth and wouldn’t smile in photos, or even cover my mouth when I’d laugh. I was always interested in the possibility of clear aligners, because I didn’t want to look like a kid in some coming-of-age makeover romcom, but thought it would be too much of a chore due to my busy schedule – until I found ALINA Invisible Braces which promised a hassle-free process, delivering each new tray to my doorstep. 

ALINA Invisible Braces uses the latest in digital scanning, 3D printing and their AI powered ALINASmile Technology which analyzes thousands of the best smiles in the world to design a beautiful smile that uniquely fits a person’s facial features. Their aligners are also made from what they call their ultracomfort material which help them create the most comfortable and wearable invisible braces in the market today. The cost depends on whether your case is mild or complex. And sadly, I fall under the latter.

So, long story short, I got scanned at one of their partner dentists, and after two weeks I was called back in for my attachments and the rest is history.

Yes, I said attachments. One of the things that made me want ALINA Invisible Braces in the first place, is the fact that their aligners are clear, and are less noticeable – hence the “invisible” part. What I didn’t realize was that depending on your treatment plan and type of case, you’ll need to have attachments placed on a few of your teeth to help them adjust. They’re quite similar to the brackets used for metal braces, and due to my case being a complex one, my attachments are on some pretty visible areas, though my dentist did her best to match them to the actual color of my teeth, and under the right lighting, it still pretty much looks like there’s nothing there.

Now on to my ALINA Invisible Braces.

I’ll never forget the first couple of days wearing my first set of ALINA Invisible Braces. Everything in my mouth felt so tight! Putting my invisible braces on was a struggle, taking them off took forever, and I could feel a bit of pressure whenever I tried chewing. I remember thinking to myself “This isn’t what I signed up for!”. But lo and behold, two days later, and it started to feel like I was wearing nothing at all. Putting them on came with a very satisfying “click”, taking them off took literally less than a second, and I was back to eating like I used to again.

The minor discomfort is due to the invisible braces gradually shifting my teeth into their proper position. I would have actually known this, had I not been overeager, and had been listening when they presented my case to me. Obviously, my teeth shifting around inside my mouth, albeit gradually, would at times hurt. But thankfully, this all eases up as the weeks progress.

Talking while wearing my ALINA Invisible Braces also took some getting used to as well. Another thing I noticed was that I had a bit of a lisp at first. Although it wasn’t too much of a speed bump, because as my friends and colleagues can confirm, I’m back to talking up a storm.

It’s recommended that you wear your ALINA Invisible Braces 22 hours a day. I know it sounds like a whole lot, but you don’t even notice they’re on once you get the hang of it. This does mean that if you aren’t eating or drinking colored, warm, or hot liquids, you should have them on pretty much at all times. This was admittedly tough for me to get past because I typically have three to four cups of coffee in a day. I in turn stressed a lot about having my aligners out for too long in a day. But my dentist assured me it was fine, and it just meant I’d have to do my treatment for a little longer. 

I also have to say that I’ve become more responsible when it comes to dental hygiene. Cleaning your teeth before putting your ALINA Invisible Braces back in is a must, otherwise you risk getting stuff caught in your teeth and aligners. Now I carry around a handy travel toothbrush, or in scenarios where I simply can’t, I have a tiny bottle of mouthwash handy. And if you don’t floss already, it’ll definitely be your new best friend! You also need to clean your aligners to make sure nothing gets caught in them, but this is fairly simple to do.

Now on my second tray, things do feel a bit tight again. The level of discomfort, I’m guessing, depends on how much movement is happening. I do have to say though, it still doesn’t compare to the pain and discomfort of the metal braces I had back in the day. 

Is it an actual inconvenience? Frankly, no. Do I want it over and done with? Most definitely. Have I seen much of an improvement in just a month? Honestly, yes! With all the little surprises I encountered along the way, I can still definitely say that I made the right choice by uncovering my smile with ALINA Invisible Braces.

Categories
Aesthetic Health

Invisible Braces: The Answer to Misaligned Teeth

Hand holding a set of invisible braces

Good oral hygiene is the key to a beautiful smile. The way people speak, smile, and interact with those around them are affected by our oral health – and that’s exactly why it is so important to keep it up. One of the most common dental problems that take a toll on self-confidence and self-esteem is misaligned teeth. It can sometimes be difficult to speak freely and smile confidently and candidly when we feel conscious about the way our teeth look when we do. Luckily, there are solutions that can help you achieve perfectly aligned teeth, and among the most effective, convenient, and discreet ways to achieve them is through invisible braces.  Also known as transparent aligners or removable braces, invisible braces allow you to truly uncover your beautiful smile without the usual hassles of traditional metal braces. 

Can anyone get invisible braces?

Of course, it would always be best to approach trained professionals before proceeding with any dental treatments, including invisible braces. Philippines dental clinics can offer a more professional opinion and comprehensive consultation. However, some of the ways to tell whether or not invisible braces might be for you would be to inspect your teeth and watch out for these early indicators. 

  • Malocclusions – Malocclusions indicate overcrowding across either the top or bottom dental arch. Some of the indicators include teeth that are rotated sideways, protruding teeth, or teeth that overlap with one another. If a patient has a particularly difficult time when flossing, especially between specific teeth, it may be a sign of malocclusions. 
  • Irregular Spacing – In other cases, irregular spacing can also be an indication that a patient needs invisible aligners. Missing teeth, unevenly sized teeth, and teeth that are too far apart from one another are easily identifiable visual cues for irregular spacing.
  • Misaligned bite – Another way to tell whether or not a patient might need invisible braces is to assess their bite. A proper bite means they can comfortably bite down with their teeth coming together evenly. When the misalignment starts to affect the way the patient’s mouth moves or the way they speak, it may be time to seek guidance from a dental professional.

How do invisible braces work?

Transparent braces work towards the same goal as traditional braces: well-aligned teeth across the top and bottom arch. However, there are some distinctions that set them apart:

  • Permanence – For one, invisible aligners are not permanently attached to the patient’s teeth during the course of alignment. Once the patient receives their aligners, they have the freedom to take them out as needed. This makes it easier for the patient to eat comfortably as well as perform their oral hygiene routine. 
  • Placement – Instead of being orthodontic gear attached to only the outer side of teeth, removable braces are a set of clear plastic trays that fit over teeth and apply pressure throughout the entire row. This often allows for a quicker duration of treatment, as long as the patient complies with the treatment consistently. 
  • Maintenance – While traditional metal braces require the patient to visit their dentist regularly, clear aligners do not require the same number of visits throughout the course of treatment. Instead, they’ll be given a set of several aligners, each one getting the patient closer and closer to their goal of well-aligned teeth. This means that apart from periodic checkups and progress checks, invisible braces require minimal intervention from the dental provider. 

How long does it take to straighten teeth using invisible braces?

Each case that requires invisible aligners requires a different duration of treatment, and to answer the question of how long it takes to straighten teeth using invisible braces always depends on a consultation with a dentist. The span of treatment depends on how much a patient’s teeth need to be rotated or moved. However, in most cases treatment using invisible braces takes much shorter than traditional metal braces because the trays apply pressure on all sides of the teeth, more effectively leading them to the proper position. 

Treatment can typically last between 10 to 24 months before the suitable alignment is achieved. In cases involving adult patients who have already had braces during their childhood, alignment can take as little as 10 weeks. In order to achieve optimal results most efficiently, most dentists would recommend that patients wear their aligners for a minimum of 22 hours per day.

Which tooth conditions can be treated by invisible braces?

Much like traditional metal braces, most tooth conditions or misalignment issues can be treated by invisible braces. Apart from its aesthetic benefits, clear aligners also improve your overall dental health in the long run. The most common issues that can be treated by invisible braces include the following: 

  • Crowding – When too many teeth converge on a single space, it can cause problems for the patient’s bite and general comfort. Invisible aligners help direct teeth away from areas in the dental arch that suffer from crowding, allowing them to have a proper space of their own. 
  • Spacing – On the opposite end of alignment issues, teeth that are spaced too far apart can also benefit from invisible aligners. Applying pressure so that spacing between teeth is more even, aligners can guide teeth so that they are situated at a consistent and comfortable distance from each other. 
  • Protrusion or Rotation – Teeth that stick too far out of your mouth or are rotated sideways can often cause discomfort as well as an inconsistent appearance across your dental arch. Clear aligners can fix these alignment problems by guiding misaligned teeth parallel to the rest of the teeth, orienting them in the right position.

These conditions and the severity of each misalignment issue are all factors that affect invisible braces prices. To determine the best approach to address your particular case, the best first step would be to approach a trusted dental professional. 

Why choose ALINA when it comes to invisible braces?

While there are a few options available on the market, when choosing a dental provider it is crucial that you consider the expertise of the clinic as well as the standard of the materials that will be used for your aligners. After all, invisible braces are an investment and it is important that you choose a provider that will customize a treatment that caters to your specific case. With ALINA, you can be sure to get the following:

  • Better materials – ALINA’s clear aligners are made with space-age materials approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, ensuring their safety and reliability.
  • Better technology – It’s only from ALINA that you’ll have access to the AlinaSmile technology that uses Ai to predict the optimal positions for your teeth, to truly uncover your smile.
  • Better results – With more than 25 years of experience in designing beautiful smiles in the US and Canada, you can be sure you’ll love your beautiful smile with ALINA.

To learn more about how to uncover your smile, visit our how ALINA works pages.

Conclusion

Well-aligned teeth are a crucial foundation on which great smiles are built. Take the first step to achieving the smile of your dreams and book a consult today. 

Categories
Aesthetic Health

Transparent Braces: The Solution for Discreet & Effective Teeth Alignment

Transparent Braces Being Put On

Teeth alignment is a process, and it doesn’t happen overnight. With traditional metal braces, it becomes very obvious once you begin your course of alignment, with all the wires and metal suddenly installed in your mouth. This can take a toll on your self-esteem and confidence when in social situations. This is where transparent braces come in.

Modern dentistry has found ways to work around. and in some cases, eliminate the visual awkwardness that comes with metal braces almost completely. Traditional metal braces, while still the most common of teeth alignment methods, are no longer the only option if you want perfectly aligned pearly whites. Read on to learn more about the different types of invisible braces and find out which option is the best for you. 

What are the different types of invisible braces?

In the market today, there are different types of invisible braces available depending on the dental provider you choose to approach. These methods all vary in terms of effectiveness, discreetness, and price points. Below are some of the most popular ways to align your teeth without a jarring change in appearance. 

  1. Ceramic Braces – Ceramic braces are the most similar to traditional braces, but the key difference is that they are made from ceramic rather than metal. This change in material means a change in the appearance of your braces: using ceramic that is much closer to the natural color of your teeth minimizes their appearance and eliminates some of the “metal mouth” look. However, this change in material also means a change in price point, as ceramic is more expensive than metal. Some ceramic braces also still work in tandem with metal wires, which means that they are still quite visible to the people around you.
  1. Lingual Braces – Lingual braces, also sometimes referred to as inside braces, are considered “invisible” not because of the material used but rather because of their placement in your mouth. Lingual braces are often made with the same material as metal braces, so they tend to be less expensive than ceramic braces. These are placed along your dental arch behind your teeth, making it difficult to tell that you are wearing them. However, the downside to lingual braces is that they are considered less effective than traditional metal braces or ceramic braces. Beginning your treatment with lingual braces means that you might need to keep them on for longer. Also, keeping them clean is even more difficult than regular braces.
  1. Transparent braces – Transparent braces or clear aligners are the most unique and innovative way to straighten teeth. Rather than permanently attaching orthodontic gear to your teeth, transparent braces are sets of clear plastic trays that are custom-made to fit your teeth – aligning them throughout the course of treatment in the most discreet and inconspicuous way. Clear braces are also removable, which means that you can eat, drink, and maintain your oral hygiene routine with less hassle. Unlike with traditional metal braces, there are no food restrictions with transparent braces. They are far easier to clean and maintain and with proper compliance to your treatment plan, transparent braces can align your teeth much quicker than other methods of teeth alignment. 

How long do I have to wear transparent braces?

The question of how long you need to wear transparent braces can be answered in two ways: the amount of time you would need to wear them throughout the day, and how long it would take for you to complete your treatment and achieve perfectly aligned teeth. 

  • How long should I wear my transparent braces per day?

Most dental providers recommend that you wear your aligners for most hours of the day. In the case of ALINA aligners, we recommend that you wear them at least 22 hours a day, for best results. However, you can (and should!) take them out to eat and drink, or when you’re brushing and flossing your teeth. If a professional or personal situation arises where you would be more comfortable and confident without your aligners, you can take them out for a short time, but put them back in right away when possible. 

  • How long until I don’t have to wear my transparent braces anymore?

Because all smiles are unique, how long your treatment time with transparent braces will last also depends on how much your teeth need to be moved or rotated. Treatment for relatively simple cases can take less than a year, but may take up to two years or more for severely misaligned teeth. However, because transparent braces fit over your teeth and apply pressure throughout your whole dental arch, treatment time with aligners is often much shorter than with lingual braces or even metal braces. Adults who needed braces as children and whose teeth have become slightly misaligned over the years may need invisible teeth aligners for as little as 10 weeks. 

When selecting your provider, choose one that gives you the ability to truly uncover your smile. Philippines dental clinics provide several options, so it is crucial to do your research before finding the right fit for you.

How much is the cost of transparent braces?

You might spend around PhP180,000 for a set of ALINA aligners. That may sound like quite a bit more than traditional metal braces, but that’s because of the expertise required and the material used for the aligners themselves. Invisible braces prices depend on your case, how long treatment is required, and the number of sets of aligners you might need for the course of your alignment. All this considered, transparent braces are still a worthwhile investment in order for you to get the smile of your dreams and boost your confidence. 

Where can I get transparent braces?

There are quite a few options for transparent braces available on the market, so it is important to consider the quality of materials used as well as the caliber of the clinic you might choose. The best providers will consider your case as unique and provide you with treatment that is customized to cater to you and your needs. With ALINA, dentists not only consider your teeth but also the way that your smile fits in harmony with your facial structure. The results speak for themselves, giving you a more cohesive and harmonious look. Find out more about our holistic and innovative approach to teeth alignment by visiting our how ALINA Works pages.

Conclusion 

Dental treatments and methods of teeth alignment have evolved throughout the years, and innovation means solving the problems of the past in our pursuit of a great smile. Now, attaining a smile that you’re proud of doesn’t require you to bear years and years of your treatment impacting your appearance and confidence. With transparent braces, you’re free to live your life as you always have, all while getting you closer to achieving perfectly aligned pearly whites. Begin uncovering your smile today and book a consult with ALINA. 

Categories
Health

How Effective are Removable Braces?

Woman holding invisalign alternative philippines

A great smile can work  wonders for your appearance, charisma, and confidence. This is why it’s so important to have great oral health, which, in turn, is affected by a number of different factors. The overall look of your smile is a combination of different components, and to have a great smile, you need to think about the size, shape, color, and of course, alignment of your teeth. This is where removable braces come in.

When it comes to teeth alignment, there are numerous options available on the Philippine market. From traditional braces to space-age plastic aligners, these methods all vary in technique, ease of use, price range, and effectiveness. However, there are very few that are as effective, convenient, discreet, and time-efficient as removable braces. 

What are removable braces?

Out of the most common types of braces, removable braces are the most unique, as they are not fixed orthodontic gear and are typically much easier to manage throughout your treatment. They require fewer and less frequent dental visits, and for many cases, a shorter treatment period to achieve that beautiful smile. While they are more expensive than other teeth alignment methods, for many patients, the results they create are more than worth the expense.

In principle, removable braces function similarly to other methods of teeth alignment with a few key differences that set them apart. Removable braces are a set of clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth and are custom-made to fit you. These trays apply constant pressure to your teeth, moving them slowly and gently into their optimal positions. 

As your treatment progresses, your dental provider will prescribe you new sets of aligners to periodically realign your teeth as they move. This brings you closer and closer to your most ideal smile. Because removable braces apply pressure all throughout your teeth, having your teeth aligned using them often takes much faster than traditional metal braces. 

What are the advantages of removable braces?

As the newest, most innovative method of teeth alignment available on the Philippine market today, removable braces have several advantages that make them a more appealing option. removable braces prices might vary from case to case, but it’s a worthwhile investment when considering the difference it can make on your life and your smile. The advantages of removable braces include the following:

  • They are nearly invisible. – Because they are made of clear plastic trays rather than opaque metal or ceramic, removable braces are significantly less conspicuous than any other option. This means you’ll be able to keep your pristine look, with no distracting metal bits in your mouth, all throughout your treatment.

  • They are removable. – Apart from being inconspicuous, removable braces are also less intrusive on your lifestyle. Unlike metal braces, you can (and should!) remove them when eating or drinking, which also means that you don’t have any food and diet restrictions while being treated. 

  • They require a shorter period of treatment. – With proper compliance to the treatment, removable braces often work quickly to align your teeth. They also require less frequent visits to your dentist, unlike the regular visits and adjustments required by other alignment methods.

  • They reduce the risk of oral hygiene problems during treatment. – Being able to remove your aligners means it’s much easier to perform your oral hygiene routine, giving you the ability to regularly brush and floss with ease. Unlike fixed orthodontic gear such as metal or ceramic braces, removable braces give you the liberty of taking out your aligners as needed, meaning you don’t have to work around them to maintain your oral hygiene. This minimizes the risk of your teeth suffering as a result of your treatment. 

  • They are easy to clean. – Apart from making it easier to clean your teeth, removable braces are easy to clean themselves. Regular cleaning of your removable braces also contributes to healthy oral hygiene.

Woman holding removable braces

Which teeth conditions can removable braces fix?

Removable braces are just as, if not more effective than more traditional braces designs. They can repair almost every common tooth misalignment issue, including:

  • Open Bite – In this tooth misalignment condition, the patient’s incisors, or front teeth, do not meet, leaving a gap between them. In severe cases of open bite, even the teeth beside the incisors, referred to as the canines, fail to meet as well.

  • Tooth crowding – Also known as crooked teeth, this condition causes teeth to rub and bump into one another due to insufficient space in the mouth. This may happen once a patient’s third molars, popularly known as “wisdom teeth”, come in.  This condition often creates crannies and food traps, making teeth difficult to clean and more hospitable to cavity-causing bacteria.

  • Diastema – The opposite of tooth crowding. Diastema is a condition wherein large, visible gaps occur between the teeth. If left untreated, the gaps may trap food particles and encourage bacterial growth, resulting in poor oral hygiene, cavities, and a host of other dental issues.

  • Crossbite – A misalignment of the teeth wherein the upper teeth sit behind the lower ones. This condition can be inconvenient and bothersome and can result in frequent biting of the cheeks and lips.

How often do you need to wear removable braces?

For best results, we recommend that you wear your ALINA aligners for at least 22 hours a day. Whenever you visit your dentist, they will usually check up on your progress until you are ready to move on to the next set of aligners until your treatment plan is successfully completed. 

Where can you get removable braces?

While there are a few options for removable braces in the Philippines, the best providers of them will consider your case as unique and treat you as such: with care and expertise. With ALINA, dentists will not only consider your teeth but also your facial structure and how best to align your teeth in a way that will uncover your most beautiful smile. To learn more about our unique and innovative approach towards teeth alignment, take a look at our How ALINA Works page.

Conclusion

A great smile can work wonders for your appearance and charisma, and it all starts with great teeth. Having pearly whites that align perfectly will improve your confidence, giving you the boost you need to take on the world. Begin your journey to a better smile and book a consult with ALINA today.

Categories
Health

5 Things You Need to Know about Clear Braces

Hand holding invisible braces for adults

 

While braces made out of metal wires and brackets may have been the standard for teeth straightening since their invention in 1819, many people who have used them have expressed dissatisfaction with them. Much of this dissatisfaction stems from their look: No one actually likes the look of having a mouth full of wires and brackets that interrupt an otherwise lovely smile.

In response, orthodontists have developed clear braces and a host of other orthodontic appliances that work just as well as traditional braces, but aren’t as, ahem, distracting. Here’s what you need to know about them.

What are Clear Braces?

Clear braces work just like conventional metal braces; that is, they use wires and brackets that are under constant tension to move teeth slowly into their proper position. However, clear braces are made from transparent plastics, clear wires, and sometimes from ceramics as well.

By carefully placing the brackets on the teeth and tightening the wires, your orthodontist can cause your teeth to move in any direction until they’re properly aligned. Typically, those who wear braces usually have them in for between 18 and 24 months, although this depends on the severity of the case.

Also, anyone looking for a more understated tooth straightening option may want to explore clear plastic aligners. These are custom-made metal trays that fit on top of and around the teeth, slowly spacing them and moving them into better position. These will be discussed more in the following section.

What are the different types of clear braces?

If we’re using “clear braces” as an umbrella term for all kinds of orthodontic appliances that straighten teeth but are difficult to see, then there are several kinds of clear braces. These differ in the materials they’re made from and how they’re designed to work, but all of them straighten teeth and are meant to be less obvious than traditional metal braces.

Ceramic braces

We’ve discussed ceramic braces pretty extensively so far, but some other things that you should know about them: The brackets that are used for these braces tend to be a bit smaller than metal ones, and since they’re also close in color to the teeth themselves, they’re much less conspicuous than metal braces. They usually feature metal wires, but certain designs may have white wires that are less visible. Finally, the bonding agent used to affix the ceramic brackets is usually gentler than the substance used for metal ones, so removing them is a bit easier.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are more or less identical to metal braces in every way, except for one major difference: While metal braces have brackets that are affixed to the front of the teeth, lingual braces are affixed to the back of the teeth, in the interior of the mouth. These aren’t technically “clear” braces, but they do serve the same purpose and fulfill the same objectives that clear braces do. However, these can be difficult to clean, and because they’re close to the soft tissues of the palate and the underside of the tongue, they can cause mouth wounds and sores more frequently.  

Clear aligners

Clear aligners have become the popular choice for people who want versatility and subtlety while also achieving great-looking results when it comes to straightening their teeth. These are made from a high-tech plastic that has just the right balance of rigidity and flexibility, fitting snugly around the teeth to move them into their proper positions slowly and gently. The whole treatment plan features a series of trays that the user swaps out about every week or so.

clear braces on teeth

What are the reasons to choose clear braces?

Clear braces, aligners, and even lingual braces provide some definite advantages over traditional braces

1. Clear braces can give you a boost in confidence

Let’s face it: Metal braces are kind of a buzzkill. They’re very conspicuous and can cause users to feel self-conscious about speaking or appearing in public. This can become complicated, especially for employed people who have to make presentations or take meetings regularly.

Clear braces do away with all that awkwardness. They can even give users a shot of confidence, knowing that they can look their best while also working towards creating their most beautiful smile.

2. Clear braces produce great results

While clear braces are a subtler option than traditional ones, this doesn’t mean they aren’t effective at repairing almost every tooth alignment issue. The truth is, they work just as well at fixing common orthodontic issues, including gaps, overcrowding, overbites, and underbites.

3. Better oral health overall

Having straighter teeth has many other oral health benefits and isn’t done just for aesthetic purposes. Keeping teeth from crowding and eventually grinding into one another prevents them from wearing away. Reducing the gaps between them decreases the likelihood of food particles getting trapped between teeth and developing cavities.

How much is clear braces in the Philippines?

Clear braces, aligners, and lingual braces all have different price points in the Philippines. For clear or ceramic braces, these often cost more than traditional braces, as the material needed for them is more expensive than the materials used for metal braces. Expect to spend between Php 80,000 and Php100,000 for ceramic or clear braces.

Clear aligners are the top-shelf item among the three clear braces options we’ve discussed here, and can cost up to Php250,000 or more, depending on how complex the case is. Thankfully, with ALINA aligners, you can get flexible payment options that will help you manage your costs.

Finally, lingual braces are often difficult to adjust and install, and require specialized training on the part of the orthodontist to put in. These can cost Php 80,000 or more.

Invisible braces prices definitely vary greatly, so choose the best one for you and your lifestyle.

Invisible Braces and ALINA

ALINA Invisible Braces are different from all other designs of invisible braces and aligners. Our designs start with AlinaSmile technology, a 3D scan of the entire head and face that considers all features to determine the patient’s most beautiful smile. Then, the trays are molded out of space-age materials to move the teeth into their ideal position. Over a million people in the US and Canada have been able to uncover their smiles with the help of ALINA, and now, Filipinos can start uncovering theirs too. This is just an overview of how ALINA works. 

Book a consult today and get started on your journey to your most beautiful smile today!

Categories
Health

How to Keep Your Mouth Fresh When Using Invisible Aligners

Woman Checking for Bad Breath

You might have experienced waking up with a dry mouth and bad breath after wearing your invisible aligners all night. This is mainly because your mouth is irritated by the presence of a foreign object, causing it to produce less saliva which is your mouth’s defense against bacteria.

 While this does not happen to all patients, it can still be a hassle, especially for first-timers. Dryness in the mouth and the self-consciousness that comes with having what might be bad breath can make wearing aligners difficult for the prescribed 20 or more hours. 

 If you are worried that this can affect your overall teeth alignment treatment using invisible aligners, you can relax a bit. These conditions are totally manageable and a few common-sense steps will allow you to uncover your smile in the way that you want to.

 Keep reading to learn effective ways to manage dry mouth and bad breath and make your experience with aligners more pleasant and enjoyable.

 

What Causes Invisible Aligners Dry Mouth?

 

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common side effect experienced by people who wear any type of orthodontic appliance, including invisible aligners. These orthodontic treatments are unnatural for the body, so when wearing them, the body’s initial reaction is to reduce the production of saliva in the mouth.

 When you wear your aligner, your mouth will feel drier than normal which eventually leads to irritation and gum-swelling. You might also notice that you feel more parched and dehydrated while wearing your aligners.

 Persistent dry mouth can also cause a number of other inconveniences, including difficulty in chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Additionally, it can put your overall oral health at higher risk for more serious conditions like tooth decay or infection.

 

Why Does Invisible Aligners Cause Bad Breath?

Another possible unwanted side effect of wearing your aligners is bad breath or halitosis. Some people might think that this is because of the material of the aligners themselves, which is plastic, or because you have to keep the aligner tray in your mouth for at least 20 hours. However, those are not the direct causes of bad breath.

There can be many reasons why you have bad breath, just as there are many sources of bacteria in your mouth. Some causes can be minor, like eating certain foods that are notorious for causing bad breath, such as onions or garlic. On the other hand, bad breath could be caused by serious conditions like odor-causing bacteria in your tongue, periodontal diseases, or even respiratory conditions. 

But in most cases, for invisible aligners users, bad breath is caused by the aforementioned dry mouth. One of the functions of saliva is to rinse the mouth out and remove excess bacteria in it. Because the mouth produces less saliva when wearing an aligner, it becomes much more hospitable to bacteria. The bacterial build-up in the mouth causes the foul smell and might even lead to more serious oral health complications down the road. 

 

happy Asian woman with clear aligner thumbs up

How to Avoid Invisible Aligners Dry Mouth and Bad Breath

 

While a dry mouth and bad breath are common side effects, take note that they are totally manageable. Now that you know what’s causing them, let’s take a look at some good practices to keep their impact to a minimum.

  1.     Drink lots of water

Of course, hydration is key. Even if you have made it a habit to drink plenty of water prior to wearing invisible aligners, you might find yourself drinking more water than usual. Staying hydrated will help maintain a steady saliva flow. We recommend having a water bottle with you at all times, so you won’t have to deal with  dryness in the mouth so much.

  1.     Practice good overall oral hygiene

In general, it’s a good idea for everyone to always practice proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth, ideally after every meal. Remember that food particles tend to embed themselves in the nooks and crannies of the teeth. This can cause many different oral health issues, so make sure to brush and floss thoroughly to keep your overall oral health at its best. Also, do not leave out your tongue from brushing as bacteria tends to  multiply there as  well.  

  1.     Always keep your aligners clean

One important thing that can keep these unpleasant experiences to a minimum is to keep them clean, alllthe time. Bacteria thrive in unhygienic environments, so to prevent your aligners from becoming a hospitable environment for bacterial, be sure to clean them as much as possible. Clean them after meals with lukewarm water (but not hot water, please!) and recommended cleaning materials. Also, avoid eating or drinking anything except water while they are in your mouth.

  1.     Avoid tobacco or caffeine 

You may want to consider eliminating tobacco and caffeine from your routine, as both can contribute greatly to dry mouth or bad breath, especially when wearing invisible aligners. This goes for all types of tobacco (cigarettes, hookah, chewing tobacco, etc.). For coffee lovers, you might want to switch to decaffeinated coffee or tea while you have your aligners. Instead, consider healthy energy-boosting snacks like bananas or whole grains.

  1.     Mouthwash can help

To refresh your mouth and give it a clean, minty feeling, try to include mouthwash in your daily oral hygiene routine. Persistent dry mouth can also be solved with mouthwashes specifically formulated for this condition.

 

Getting aligners? Get it from the best

 

Interested in finding out how ALINA works? Here’s what you need to know. 

ALINA aligners not only allow you to create your most beautiful smile. With our AlinaSmile technology, we analyze your entire face to gently and effectively move your teeth into their optimal positions.  With 30 years of expertise in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, ALINA aligners will give you the best experience, and at invisible aligners prices that will provide exceptional value. Simply book a consult now and get to talk to our dental professionals to see if invisible aligners are the best treatment for your teeth. To know more, contact us directly at 0917-626-5348. 



Discover your perfect smile with ALINA. Book your consultation
today and begin your designer smile journey!

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  • +63917-626-5348
  • 7th ave cor Lane P High Street BGC Taguig
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