The benefits of properly aligned teeth range from improved appearance and self-confidence to better oral health and function. If you’re searching for a great orthodontist in Coffs Harbour, you may already know the benefits of straight teeth. But do you know the difference between choosing an orthodontist versus an orthodontics provider?
“Orthodontics” refers to the movement of teeth with traditional braces or an alternative system, such as clear aligner therapy. An orthodontist is a specialist in orthodontics.
All dental specialists, like periodontists and orthodontists, must first become general dentists. From there, a general dentist may opt to become a specialist and undergo the required additional two years of intense training in one specialty area.
General dentists who don’t become specialists can focus on specific treatments through continuing education. Dr. Arpit Pathak of Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center focuses his continuing education on orthodontics, namely clear aligner therapy. While he is completely trained and competent in providing clear aligner orthodontics to Coffs Harbour patients, he is not an orthodontist.
What is clear aligner therapy?
A Coffs Harbour orthodontist will usually offer traditional braces with brackets, wires, and bands. In contrast, clear aligner therapy, like Invisalign, uses a series of custom-made, transparent aligners that shift teeth a predetermined amount. For instance, aligner A will move teeth toward their ideal position for aligner B to begin. Once that position is reached, the patient will discard aligner A and move to aligner B. Then he will wear each consecutive aligner for approximately 2 weeks before moving to the next.
Traditional orthodontics usually takes about 2 years to produce desired results. Clear aligners, on the other hand, can take from six to 18 months to complete a treatment plan. No “tightening” appointments are necessary, and the patient will not have to worry about painful sores caused by metal components in the mouth.
Does clear aligner therapy work for all orthodontics patients?
Clear aligner therapy is well suited for simple cosmetic cases, but it can be effective for improving a patient’s bite, or occlusion, as well. Aligners are ideal for teenagers and adults. Children are best served by traditional orthodontics.
What are the benefits of clear aligner therapy compared to traditional braces?
- Inconspicuousness – Instead of metal brackets and wires, you’ll wear clear, comfortable, acrylic aligners that are barely noticeable.
- Ability to remove aligners – Having your picture taken? Giving a presentation? Simply remove your aligners for the special event, then put them back on afterward.
- Easy to clean teeth and aligners – Remove your aligners to brush and floss your teeth, and to clean the trays.
- No mouth sores from metal components – Comfortable, flexible acrylic won’t irritate soft oral tissues.
- Shorter treatment time, in most cases – Treatment time is generally six to 18 months, whereas braces usually take two years.
- No dietary restrictions – Because the clear aligners are removable, you’ll have no dietary restrictions at all.
Need an orthodontist in Coffs Harbour?
As an orthodontics provider, Dr. Arpit Pathak and the team at Magic Smiles will help you achieve and maintain straight teeth, for a head-turning smile! Call our dental office today in Coffs Harbour at (02) 6652-3242 to schedule your clear aligner consultation.
