The importance of a confident smile to make everlasting impressions cannot be underestimated. However, sometimes, despite our best efforts, maintaining good oral health practices is not enough to deliver the radiant smile we desire.
“Brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining attractive teeth, yet many adults find that the misalignment of their teeth lets them down, not only from a cosmetic but also from a functional point of view,” says Dr Rahul Gathiram, the dental director for Netcare Medicross.
He adds that this is an area where dental aligners can be most helpful.
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What are dental aligners?
“Dental aligners are clear, plastic trays specially made for each patient. They fit snugly over the teeth and work by gradually shifting the teeth into the desired position. Every few weeks, your dentist will replace your old aligner with a new one, and each aligner will be designed to move your teeth slightly further toward the alignment that your dentist recommends.”
Dr Gathiram stresses the importance of having your dentist help decide whether custom-made aligners are the best solution for your mouth. “Avoid buying cheap, mass-produced aligners online, as there is a high probability that these will not fit properly and could cause increased discomfort or sensitivity. They’re unlikely to deliver the optimal results you’ll get from having a dental aligner made up specially for you by a professional.
“As a trained medical practitioner, it is important that your dentist assess your overall health, including pre-existing medical and dental conditions, before determining whether aligners are the best option for you,” he says.
Advantages of aligners
Dr Gathiram explains that there are three main reasons why some people prefer aligners to braces.
- Firstly, unlike traditional braces, aligners are nearly invisible. “They offer a more subtle option compared to traditional braces. This is an important point for many people,” says Dr Gathiram.
- Secondly, aligners are made from smooth plastic and therefore are relatively comfortable.
- Thirdly, since aligners are removable, they can be taken out while eating, brushing, and flossing. This provides more flexibility in dietary choices compared to braces, which require avoiding certain foods.
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Limitations
But, aligners may not be the best choice for everyone.
“Your dentist will assess whether aligners are an appropriate option for your specific needs. They may not be suitable for severe orthodontic cases or complex dental issues requiring significant movement or correction. Traditional braces and a referral to an orthodontist may be necessary in these cases. Aligners require a high level of compliance and are generally not recommended in children.”
How to go about getting aligners fitted
Start by booking a consultation with your dentist, advises Dr Gathiram. “They will carefully evaluate your teeth and discuss your specific goals for how you’d like your smile to look and what may be possible. Let them help you decide if aligners are the best option for you.”
If aligners are suitable for you, a detailed scan or mould of your teeth will be taken to create an impression that will be used to make the correct custom-made aligners.
“Your dentist will provide you with a treatment plan, advising on the estimated duration and the number of aligners needed. The dentist will monitor your progress through regular check-ups to ensure your teeth are moving as planned, making any necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible outcome.”
“At Netcare Medicross, many of our dentists offer aligner services and stay informed on the latest dental advancements. If you're feeling self-conscious about smiling broadly because of misaligned teeth, it might be affecting your everyday interactions, make an appointment to discuss your options with a professional.”
How dental aligners revolutionised orthodontics
The concept of dental aligners dates back to the late 1990s, when the first commercial aligner system, Invisalign, was introduced by Align Technology.
This innovation revolutionised orthodontics by offering an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Over the years, the technology has evolved significantly, with materials, design, and customisation improvements, making aligners a popular choice for many patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Invisalign’s patent on the product has now expired, which allows local laboratories to produce the product, making it more affordable for our South African market.
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Notes to editor
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Alternatively, contact Netcare Appointmed on 0860 555 565, Mondays to Fridays, 08:00 to 17:00 to make an appointment with a therapist, doctor or specialist practising at a Netcare hospital, Netcare Medicross or Netcare Akeso facility near you.
For media enquiries, contact MNA at the contact details listed below.
Issued by: MNA on behalf of Netcare Medicross Dental Services
For media enquiries contact: Martina Nicholson, Meggan Saville, Estene Lotriet-Vorster or Clementine Forsthofer
Telephone: (011) 469 3016
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