With self care and the importance of holistic health wellness now being more understood, people are looking for ways in which they can improve themselves while still keeping up with busy schedules and the immense pressure that everyone seems to be under these days. At-home teeth straightening is proven to be a welcome and positive disruption on the dental industry, as it offers patients professional help from the comfort of their own home. But despite what many people might think, teeth alignment is not just for cosmetic purposes; it can also help patients prevent more serious health complications.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information published a paper that looked into the health risk of misaligned teeth and jaws. The study concluded that whilst misalignment is sometimes caused by certain behaviors during the development of the teeth such as thumb sucking and certain pacifier use, the condition could also be a result of genetics. Misaligned teeth are more inclined to get damaged due to injury and may cause the jaw to ache, produce a clicking or popping sound or become “blocked.” The restriction to perform compulsory movements make oral hygiene difficult as it becomes troublesome to brush teeth properly and this in turn leads to tooth decay and gum disease.
The teeth alignment process has evolved drastically over the years starting with in-office clear alignment trays and then evolving to the at-home treatment. Invisalign were the pioneers of the very first clear aligner treatment which allowed patients to have in-office clear alignment plates fitted as a more discreet option to traditional metal brackets. Since then companies such as Candid have taken this technology and tweaked it to suit at-home treatment, while still allowing for remote advice by a dental professional.
At-home aligner treatment provides the benefits of in-office treatments without the hassle of having to worry about waiting rooms and the hefty price tag that comes with having to sit in the dentist chair. When comparing Invisalign vs Candid, they are similar in terms of effectiveness, but the biggest difference between the two would definitely have to be Invisalign’s much higher price point.
At-home teeth straightening may not be for everyone, but for the vast majority who suffer from mild to moderate teeth irregularities, at-home aligners offer convenience and flexibility while getting the job done. However, for those who have more severe or complicated situations, at-home aligners may not be able to administer the appropriate treatment required. In some instances, at-home aligners may not be appropriate due to untreated gum disease, severe alignment issues and or jaw malformations that would require a more intensive treatment that can only be achieved by in-office visits and traditional braces. Regular dentist visits are recommended to ensure that your oral hygiene is correctly taken care of and during your visit, your dentist will be able to assess if you qualify as a candidate for the at-home alignment treatment or if an in-office method is the best way to go.
It is imperative to always do your research on a company before committing to their treatment. Look for a reputable brand that provides support by professional dental experts. As much as these kits are an at-home solution, you will still need medical guidance to monitor and watch over the progress. One resource to look at if you are considering at-home aligners is Smile Prep’s Youtube channel, which posts real reviews by users of different at-home brands.
Final Thoughts
The self-confidence that comes with a strong smile is priceless, however the process of rectifying teeth misalignments is often pretty high. This is why at-home teeth straightening is an excellent alternative to in-office treatments without compromising on the care and quality of the treatment received.
At-home clear aligners allow patients to embrace their new smile without having to wear braces. For those with the need for mild to moderate orthodontic work, the at-home service can be a convenient and budget-friendly option with results that are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
