Author: raya olivarez

With all the orthodontists out there, how do you find the right one for you? Here in the Philippines, there are a few key things to consider:

Board Certification and Experience

Before anything else, make sure your orthodontist is a certified specialist. They should have completed dental school and a residency program specifically focused on orthodontics. This ensures they have the expertise to handle even complex cases. Experience is a bonus too! Ask how long they’ve been practicing orthodontics, and if they have experience treating cases similar to yours.

Communication and Comfort

A good orthodontist goes beyond a degree. You want someone you feel comfortable talking to. Ask questions about treatment options, what to expect, and anything else that might be on your mind. A great orthodontist will listen, answer your questions clearly, and make sure you feel confident about your treatment plan.

While board certification and experience are essential, here are some additional factors you may also want to consider:

Technology: Does the clinic utilize modern technology like digital imaging or 3D scanning for more precise treatment planning?

Treatment Options: Do they offer a variety of dental care options, such as invisible braces, teeth whitening, and even oral prophylaxis?

Payment Plans: Does the clinic offer flexible payment plans or even installment plans? Make sure to discuss this with your orthodontist before choosing the right place for you!

Traditional braces require a lengthy treatment time, ranging from 1 to 5 years on average. From manual adjustments to metal brackets and wires, it definitely makes traditional braces a long-term commitment – sometimes even too long.

ALINA, on the other hand, uses the most advanced technology and safe materials to craft a custom treatment for each patient that’s fast, precise, and efficient. In just 6-18 months, you are already able to get your beautiful smile —much quicker and more efficient than old-school methods. Plus, ALINA shows you a preview of your future smile before you even start wearing your first set of aligners.

Technology

There’s a big difference with straight teeth and a beautiful smile. Unlike other braces on the market that only straighten your teeth, with 3D imaging and computer-aided designs, ALINA Invisible Braces is able to craft a smile that perfectly complements your unique facial features.

Treatment Duration

Unlike metal braces usually take at least 2-3 years to complete due to all the dental visits and manual adjustments, ALINA invisible braces only take around 6-18 months to achieve your perfect smile. Invisible braces are able to utilize the latest technology to move teeth very precisely so that the number of your sets can be predicted even before you start with your treatment. 

Comfort

Achieving a straighter smile shouldn’t come at the expense of comfort. Thanks to advancements in science and technology, our materials are at the forefront of comfort and innovation. Unlike traditional braces with metal wires and brackets that can cause irritation, ALINA, with the help of AI, can shift teeth with unmatched precision, ensuring the technology is the most advanced and comfortable choice on the market. ALINA’s custom-made aligners prioritize comfort during wear. Invisible braces lead to less discomfort because they require fewer adjustments and dental visits than traditional braces. The absence of metal wires and brackets also reduces the irritation or mouth sores, making it a more comfortable orthodontic experience overall. If made properly, you should barely notice they’re there.

In the Philippines, you generally don’t need a referral to see an orthodontist. You can contact the clinic and directly book an appointment or even just book online, just like you would do with any other specialist. This means you have the freedom to choose an orthodontist who feels like a good fit for you.

A referral would be helpful in case your current dentist may have a recommendation and refer you to an orthodontist with a great reputation and experience treating cases similar to yours.

Convenience

Unlike traditional braces, invisible braces are removable, simplifying exceptional oral hygiene. You also don’t need to be restricted on which food to eat. These seamlessly integrate into your lifestyle. Simply remove them for meals and drinks, with Invisible Braces like ALINA, your treatment complements your busy schedule.

Appearance

Traditional braces, while undeniably functional, can be visually intrusive. Invisible braces, however, offer a near-imperceptible solution, ensuring your journey towards a beautiful smile remains discreet. You can be just as confident while undergoing the treatment. This makes invisible braces the ideal choice for the discerning patient who frequently interacts with new people, or for anyone who desires a smile transformation without compromising their sophisticated image.

Traditional braces can straighten teeth, but they’re visually intrusive. Invisible braces, however, offer a near-imperceptible solution, ensuring your journey towards a beautiful smile remains discreet. You can be just as confident while undergoing the treatment. This makes invisible braces the ideal choice for the discerning patient who frequently interacts with new people, or for anyone who desires a smile transformation without compromising their sophisticated image.

Keeping your invisible braces clean is incredibly easy. Unlike traditional braces, there are no monthly dental visits for adjustments or metal wires to worry about. Plus, the removable nature allows you to maintain excellent oral hygiene and enjoy all your favorite foods without restriction. Here are 3 easy tips to keep your invisible braces clean:

1. Brush and Floss Consistently
   This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Before wearing your aligners again, brush your teeth and floss thoroughly to remove any food particles that could stain your aligners. 
2. Clean Your Aligners Daily
   Just like your teeth, your aligners need good cleaning. Use lukewarm water and a soft-bristled toothbrush, separate from your regular toothbrush, to gently remove any built-up plaque or film. Avoid harsh chemicals or toothpaste, as these can damage the aligner material. A good alternative to this is using dishwashing liquid instead.
3. Don’t Forget Your Case
   When you’re not wearing your aligners, keep them safe and sound in their case. This protects them from getting damaged or lost.

Thinking about getting invisible braces but worried about potential downsides? Fortunately, the risks that come with getting invisible braces are minimal, if any.

Like any orthodontic procedure, you might feel a bit of pressure and some mild discomfort at the beginning of your treatment as your teeth start to move. This is typically temporary and should subside within a day or so. This is definitely less painful compared to traditional braces, which often cause pain for a longer period after placement and adjustments.

A few individuals may notice a slight lisp when they initially wear invisible aligners. However, this typically goes away within a few hours as you adapt to speaking with your invisible braces on.

Lastly, the effectiveness of invisible braces relies on consistent wear. Failure to wear them as instructed could prolong treatment duration or compromise its effectiveness.

Overall, the risks linked to invisible braces treatment are minor and temporary. This method is the least invasive, quickest, and most comfortable approach to perfecting your natural teeth.