While it may be tempting to try and get clear aligners through the mail, we highly suggest that you visit a dentist before deciding to make use of orthodontic aligners. Now, you may think that it isn’t a big deal but misuse of such products could do more harm than good. And considering how rare it is to find affordable dentistry, you’ll want to play it safe when it comes to the state of your teeth.
If you need more convincing, here are four reasons why you need to go to a dentist before you start using clear aligners.
Your Dentist Needs to Assess if Clear Aligners Are Needed
One major issue that comes with using clear aligners without consulting a dentist is that not everyone is suited for orthodontic aligners. While they may seem simplistic, clear aligners are designed to change the entire makeup of your teeth. This means that using them improperly could cause serious damage to your teeth — damage that you will then require a visit to the nearest Dental House to fix.
A common issue that comes with using clear aligners without the supervision of a dentist is using them too early. Orthodontic aligners are made for people whose jaws have stopped growing and would require you to undergo x-rays and bite evaluations in order to work correctly. Your dentist can also give you additional instructions that can help with using clear aligners. This is something you won’t have access to if you opt to go for direct-to-consumer orthodontic aligners.
You’ll Need a Thorough Cleaning Before Using Clear Aligners
You’ll also want to make sure that you have good oral health before using clear aligners. You have to understand that you have to wear the clear aligners for a minimum of 22 hours a day. The clear aligners could aggravate any pre-existing dental issues you may have, especially if they are left untreated. This is a problem as these issues could lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
All of this can be avoided by visiting your dentist. This is why you’ll want to regularly consult your dentist when using clear aligners, as they can help you maintain good oral health while you make use of the orthodontic aligners.
Getting the Right Fit is Key
Lastly, the mail-in aligners may not even fit you properly. If this is the case, it could have no effect on the alignment of your teeth. In worse scenarios, it could even cause your teeth to become more misaligned.
Considering your teeth will constantly be shifting, you’ll also need a dentist to resize or reshape the clear aligners to ensure that they keep working as intended. This can only be done with professional supervision.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, your dentist knows what’s best for your teeth. While there’s nothing wrong with using clear aligners, it’s important that you use them properly. Consulting with your dentist will only increase the chances of the aligners delivering their intended results. If you really wanted to correct your teeth, there’s absolutely no reason not to pay a visit to your dentist prior to using orthodontic aligners.
We offer Invisalign treatment in Ann Arbor, Michigan that comes with a free whitening kit at the end of the treatment. We also specialize in a multitude of oral hygiene fields, such as oral surgery and restorative dentistry.
If you are in need of any of these services, be sure to book your appointment today!