What Are Clear Aligners Made Of In Pikesville?
More and more people want to straighten their teeth without the sight and feel of traditional metal braces so they are choosing clear aligners. In Pikesville, more and more patients are asking us what these aligners are made of and why that matters. We at Level Orthodontics think knowing what clear aligners are made of will make you feel more comfortable and informed as you start your orthodontic journey.
Thermoplastic material is a special kind of medical grade plastic used to make clear aligners. Polyurethane or similar polymer mixes designed specifically for orthodontic use are the most common types of materials used. These materials are chosen because they need to be strong enough to push your teeth constantly, flexible enough to fit snugly over them and clear enough so you can’t see them when you wear them. These properties make thermoplastic materials perfect for making orthodontic devices that work well and are invisible. Braces remain a reliable option for correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns. They gently guide teeth into proper alignment over time. With today’s modern materials, treatment is more precise and comfortable than ever.
When it comes to things that stay in your mouth for a long time, safety is always the number one issue. The plastic used in clear aligners does not contain bisphenol A, a substance some people are concerned about in some plastics. Before they can be used, the materials that make up clear aligners must pass strict tests to ensure they are safe for medical and dental use. You can be sure the material in your aligners is safe and has been tested for long term use on your teeth and gums when you wear them.
One of the best things about the thermoplastic material used in clear aligners is that it can be molded very accurately. The plastic is heated until it’s soft and flexible during the production process. We then mold it to the exact shape of your teeth based on the digital scans or imprints we take during your appointment. This exact fit is what makes the aligners work. The precise fit of each aligner ensures the pressure is given exactly where it needs to be for the best results. Each aligner moves your teeth a little bit.
The thickness of the plastic is also very important for how well the aligners work. Most clear aligners are between 0.75 and 1 millimeter thick. That’s thin enough to be comfortable but thick enough to move your teeth. This combination of comfort and strength is one of the reasons why clear aligners are so popular in Pikesville and other areas. The material is strong enough to last 20 to 22 hours a day without breaking or losing its shape. Early orthodontic treatment helps address developing issues before they become more complex. It supports proper jaw growth and creates room for incoming adult teeth. This proactive approach often leads to smoother treatment later on.
The smooth surface of the thermoplastic material is another good thing about it. Clear aligners don’t have any sharp edges or rough spots, unlike metal braces that have brackets and wires that can hurt the inside of your mouth. The smooth plastic fits snugly over your teeth and is much less likely to hurt your gums and cheeks or give you sores. We want our patients to be comfortable during their treatment at Level Orthodontics and the clear aligners help with that.
The material used in clear aligners doesn’t stain easily but it’s not stain proof. We recommend that patients take out their aligners anytime they eat or drink anything other than water. Over time, foods and drinks especially those that are black or acidic can change the color of the plastic. You can keep your aligners looking clear and new during your treatment by taking them out after you eat and cleaning them often with a soft toothbrush and mild soap.
Another important thing about the material is how long it lasts. Clear aligners need to keep their shape and work well when you wear them for weeks at a time. The thermoplastic material is meant to be durable and last long so each set of aligners works for the one to two weeks you wear them before moving to the next set. Now that you know what clear aligners are made of you can feel better and be more at ease as you start your journey to a straighter, healthier smile.