Aligners

Aligners — a modern method of correcting the bite without braces

Transparent orthodontic mouthguards, known as aligners, are designed to align teeth and correct the bite without braces. They are made based on digital scans or individual impressions, which ensures the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment. The technique is based on the gradual displacement of the dentition into the desired position by regularly replacing the aligners.

The main advantage of aligners over braces is comfort and inconspicuousness. Due to the absence of metal elements, they do not irritate the gums, which minimizes the risk of caries and inflammation. Users of transparent aligners are much less likely to develop gingivitis and enamel demineralization compared to those who wear braces.

Astra Dent in Warsaw is a modern dental center with over 18 years of experience in the field of orthodontics. Patients receive treatment using 2023 equipment, including 3D scanners for accurate digital impressions, orthopantomographs for diagnosis and visualization of the bite, and computer modeling of the future smile.

Dentistry employs doctors with 10-15 years of experience who regularly undergo advanced training courses and use an individual approach to the patient. Thanks to this, everyone receives a personalized treatment plan and a predicted result.

Why choose Astra Dent Warsaw for aligners?

Patients choose aligners in Warsaw not only because of aesthetics, but also because of accuracy, predictability of the result, and less trauma compared to braces. However, the effectiveness of the procedure largely depends on the quality of diagnostics, the level of qualification of specialists, and technological equipment.

Advantages of orthodontic treatment at Astra Dent:

• Experienced dentists. The success of treatment is determined by the doctor who develops a personalized correction plan. Astra Dent employs orthodontists with 15 years of experience who have undergone specialized training in the use of digital technologies in treatment planning. They regularly improve their qualifications and apply individual protocols for each case.
• Modern methods. Traditional treatment methods are based on plaster models, which do not always guarantee accuracy. Astra Dent uses 3D scanning, which eliminates errors in manual impressions. Additionally, digital bite modeling and prediction of the result are used before the start of treatment.
• Painless procedures and fast healing. Patients with aligners complain of pain and discomfort 35% less often than those who wear braces. The absence of metal arches and locks reduces the risk of mucosal injury, and the removable format allows you to maintain your usual hygiene.
• International treatment standards. The effectiveness of orthodontic treatment is determined by the quality of materials and technological approach. Astra Dent uses certified aligners from leading global manufacturers, and the processes comply with international ADA and ISO 13485 protocols.

The choice of dentistry matters. Astra Dent is experience, modern technologies and predictable results for those who want to get a healthy and harmonious smile.

What problems do aligners solve?

About 80% of the population of developed countries has a bite disorder that affects oral health. Clear aligners eliminate most orthodontic problems, providing comfortable and inconspicuous treatment.

Aligner correction is advisable in the following cases:

• Uneven teeth and crowding. The problem occurs when the jaw is not spacious enough for the correct arrangement of all teeth, which leads to their overlapping or tilting. Clear aligners gradually move each tooth into the desired position, aligning the dentition and improving the aesthetics of the smile.
• Gaps between the teeth (trema, diastema). Excessive gaps between can be caused by genetic factors or tooth loss. The use of aligners allows us to gradually reduce the gaps, ensuring a tight and even arrangement of the teeth.
• Crossbite. Incorrect closing of the teeth can lead to wear of tooth enamel. Aligners correct the defect, contributing to the correct closure of the dentition.
• Deep, open, distal or mesial bite. Various types of malocclusion negatively affect the functionality and aesthetics of the smile. Thanks to an individual approach and modern orthodontic technologies, aligners effectively correct the violation, ensuring a healthy bite.

Aligners allow us to correct most orthodontic defects without installing metal structures. Thanks to digital modeling, the treatment is carried out under the full control of the doctor.

How do aligners work?

The aligners are made of transparent biocompatible polycarbonate, which makes them practically invisible on the teeth. The basic principle of action is the controlled movement of the dentition into the desired position:

• Gradual displacement of the teeth in a given direction. Aligners create constant weak pressure on the teeth. It causes bone remodeling: in the direction of tooth movement, it is resorbed, and on the opposite side, a new one is formed. The process ensures smooth movement of teeth without damaging surrounding structures.
• Removable transparent mouth guards and wearing mode. Orthodontic structures should be worn 20-22 hours a day. They are removed only during meals and hygiene procedures. Regular wearing provides a constant effect on the teeth, contributing to effective and predictable movement. The treatment period depends on the complexity of the case and lasts from several months to two years.
• Treatment control and change of aligners. Treatment is carried out under the constant supervision of an orthodontist. After diagnosis and development of a 3D model of the jaw, an individual therapy plan is developed. The patient is given a set of aligners, each of which should be worn for 1-2 weeks, depending on the doctor’s recommendations. During scheduled visits, the orthodontist assesses progress and, if necessary, makes adjustments.

Transparent mouth guards correct the position of the teeth without surgical intervention and discomfort. Thanks to the gradual change of aligners and control by the orthodontist, the treatment is safe.

Types of aligners at our facility

Astra Dent offers leading aligner systems for orthodontic treatment: Invisalign and Spark Aligners. Both provide effective and invisible teeth alignment, but have unique features:

• Invisalign. The American aligner system has helped over 18 million patients worldwide achieve a perfect smile. The Invisalign system uses advanced 3D scanning to create an individual treatment plan, which allows us to predict the final result even before the start of therapy. The aligners are made of SmartTrack material, which ensures precise and comfortable tooth movement.
• Spark Aligners. The modern system of mouthguards is characterized by increased transparency and hypoallergenic materials. Spark Aligners are made of innovative TruGen material, which provides more comfortable wearing and less noticeable during use. TruGen has increased stain resistance, which allows us to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the caps throughout the entire treatment period.

Both systems are available at Astra Dent in Warsaw. Specialists select the best option according to individual needs and wishes.

Stages of treatment with aligners

Bite correction begins with diagnostics, which determines the individual characteristics of the dentofacial system. Each stage of treatment is aimed at controlled movement of teeth, which provides a predictable result.

Orthodontic consultation and 3D scanning

The first step is a consultation with an orthodontist, during which an examination of the oral cavity and assessment of the condition of the teeth are performed. For accurate treatment planning, 3D scanning of the dentition using an intraoral scanner is used. This allows us to create a digital model of the patient’s jaws without using traditional impressions.

Treatment plan — digital model of tooth movement

Based on the obtained 3D images, the orthodontist develops an individual treatment plan. Using specialized software, the sequential movement of the teeth to the desired position is simulated. The patient has the opportunity to see a virtual model of the future smile and agree on all stages of therapy before the intervention.

Custom-made aligners

After the treatment plan is approved, a set of aligners is manufactured, each of which corresponds to a certain stage of tooth movement. The trays are made of a transparent biocompatible material, which ensures invisibility and comfort during wearing. The number of aligners and the duration of treatment depend on the complexity of the specific case.

Wearing and monitoring at the dentist

The patient wears each aligner for a specified period, usually 1-2 weeks, 20-22 hours a day. Regular visits to the orthodontist allow us to monitor progress and make the necessary adjustments. This approach ensures effective and predictable tooth movement.

Fixating the result with retainers

After the active phase of treatment is completed and the desired position of the teeth is achieved, it is necessary to fix the result. For this, retainers are used – special devices that support the teeth in a new position and prevent them from returning to their original state.

Advantages of aligners

Orthodontic treatment is always associated with certain inconveniences, especially when it comes to braces. Metal structures cause discomfort, dietary restrictions, and difficulties with oral care. Aligners are devoid of such disadvantages and offer a convenient solution to problems:

• Invisible. The aligners are made of a transparent polymer, making them invisible on the teeth. Patients do not experience psychological discomfort during study, work, or social gatherings.
• Convenient. The aligners can be removed before eating or brushing their teeth. This reduces the risk of caries and gingivitis, which is a common problem among patients with braces.
• Painless. Transparent aligners exert uniform and controlled pressure on the teeth, which reduces discomfort when moving the dentition.
• No food restrictions. Patients with braces have to exclude hard, sticky or fibrous foods from their diet, which damage the metal system. The aligners are removable, so the patient can eat any food.

Astra Dent pays special attention to adaptation to wearing aligners, using individual techniques to control discomfort in the early stages of treatment. Specialists use dynamic monitoring of tooth movement, which allows timely correction of the trajectory of movement and shortens the duration of therapy.

Taking care of aligners

The accumulation of bacteria and plaque causes an unpleasant odor, discoloration of the aligners and deterioration of the condition of the teeth. Daily cleaning allows you to maintain the transparency of the aligners and prevent the reproduction of microorganisms.

How to clean the aligners correctly:

• Clean twice a day – in the morning and in the evening. Use a soft toothbrush without abrasive paste or special tablets for cleaning aligners.
• Rinse after each removal. Rinse your aligners with cold water to remove saliva and food debris.
• Use antiseptic solutions. For a deep clean, soak your aligners in a disinfectant solution (but not alcohol-based mouthwash) every few days.
• Store in a container. When you are not wearing your aligners, they should be stored in a ventilated case to prevent them from drying out and coming into contact with bacteria.

It is strictly forbidden to rinse your aligners with hot water, use abrasive toothpaste to clean them, or eat or drink in your aligners. Following these simple rules will help keep your aligners in perfect condition, avoid unpleasant odors, and ensure a hassle-free treatment.

How to make an appointment?

Dental health care should not be postponed for later. Making an appointment at Astra Dent in Warsaw is quick and convenient. Just call +48 533 599 552, leave a request on the website or send an email to info@astradent.pl. Coordinators will help you choose a convenient time and advise on preparing for the visit.

The medical center operates on a schedule that suits patients with different lifestyles. On weekdays, we are open from 09:00 to 20:00, and on weekends — from 09:00 to 18:00. At the appointed time, you will be met by a team of professionals who will take care of quality service without queues and delays.