More and more people are choosing orthodontic treatment using tooth-straightening overlays instead of traditional fixed braces. Choosing this treatment method has its advantages, but also limitations that are worth knowing before starting treatment. In the article below, we will present what orthodontic overlays are, when it is worth choosing them, what are their differences compared to fixed braces, who can use them and for whom they are inadvisable, and what are their costs .
What are orthodontic aligners?
Orthodontic overlays, also known as aligners, aretransparent, removable overlays on the teeth that gradually move them to the desired position. They are made of a flexible, biocompatible material that perfectly adapts to the shape of the teeth. During the treatment process, the patient receives a set of overlays to be replaced every 1-2 weeks, which allows for systematic correction of the position of the teeth.
When is it worth choosing orthodontic overlays?
Orthodontic overlays are mainly recommended for people who have mild or moderate malocclusion, such as:
- Crooked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite or crossbite (in some cases)
Thanks to their aesthetics and comfort, overlays are particularly popular among adults and teenagers who value discretion and the ability to remove them at any time, e.g. while eating or important meetings.
Orthodontic overlays and fixed appliances – differences
| Characteristic | Orthodontic overlays | Fixed braces |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Transparent, almost invisible | Metal locks and wires, less aesthetic |
| Wearing comfort | Removable, comfortable, no sharp elements | Permanent, they may cause irritation of the gums and the inside of the cheeks |
| Treatment time | Typically shorter for mild defects | May be longer for more complicated cases |
| Oral hygiene | Easy to maintain hygiene - removable when eating | It requires special attention to the cleanliness of the locks and the space between the wires |
| Cost | Usually higher than fixed braces | Lower compared to orthodontic overlays |
For whom is treatment with overlays recommended and who should avoid them?
Orthodontic overlays are dedicated to people who:
- They want to avoid visible braces - aligners are almost transparent, which makes them discreet.
- They need minor or moderate bite correction - for more complex malocclusions, doctors recommend traditional fixed braces.
- They are ready for regular check-ups - the treatment process requires constant monitoring to adjust subsequent overlays.
Orthodontic overlays are not recommendedfor patients with serious malocclusions, complex malocclusions, as well as for children under 14 years of age whose dental growth process is not completed. In such cases, traditional braces may be more effective and appropriate.
Advantages and disadvantages of orthodontic overlays
Advantages:
- Aesthetics - The overlays are transparent, which makes them almost invisible.
- Comfort of wearing - the lack of metal elements makes the overlays more comfortable and does not irritate the gums.
- Easy to maintain hygiene - the aligners can be removed while eating and brushing, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene.
- Fewer visits to the orthodontist - compared to fixed braces, where check-ups and adjustments are frequent.
- Shorter treatment time - for mild malocclusions, treatment with overlays may be shorter than with fixed braces.
Defects:
- Higher cost - Aligners are usually more expensive than traditional braces.
- Require regularity - they must be worn at least 22 hours a day, which requires consistency and discipline.
- Not for all malocclusions - aligners are only effective for mild to moderate malocclusions.
- Necessity to remove while eating - you have to remove the aligners every time before a meal, which can be troublesome.
Treatment costs with orthodontic aligners
The price of treatment with orthodontic overlays depends on the complexity of the defect, the number of overlays and the location of the office. In Poland, these costs usually range between PLN 8,000 and PLN 20,000 for the entire treatment process. However, it is worth remembering that many offices offer the option of paying in installments, which allows you to spread the costs over time.
Summary
Orthodontic overlays are an innovative solution for people who want to enjoy straight teeth in a discreet and comfortable way. Thanks to the transparent material, they are almost invisible, and the possibility of removing them makes it easier to maintain hygiene. However, overlay treatment is not for everyone - they are effective primarily in the case of mild and moderate malocclusions.
People with more serious problems may have to choose traditional braces. Overlays are also more expensive than fixed braces and require a lot of regularity, which is worth taking into account before making a decision. The cost of treatment ranges from PLN 8,000 to PLN 20,000, but for many patients the advantages of this method, such as aesthetics and comfort, outweigh the limitations.
