Silicone braces system is a completely transparent mouth guard made of dental silicone, which is worn over the entire dentition. Its main distinguishing features from similar dental structures are: a gentler effect on the teeth and significantly less discomfort when wearing.
In addition, this is an excellent option for those patients who are embarrassed to wear metal braces.
Advantages of silicone braces
· Silicone braces are practically invisible, which indicates a high aesthetic value. They are very thin and completely transparent. They can only be seen upon very close examination.
· Individual production of mouth guards based on previously taken dental impressions exactly follows the contours of the dentition and guarantees a tight fit. Thus, the structure will not be able to move or fall out at the most unexpected moment.
· Getting used to silicone braces is quick; the patient does not experience any discomfort while wearing them.
· The design does not have sharp edges or elements that could injure the oral mucosa or tooth enamel.
· Dental silicone is a hypoallergenic material. In addition, it is very durable and resistant to any negative external influences, except hot food and drinks.
· Silicone braces are suitable for correcting malocclusion for both children and adults up to forty years of age, provided that they are not allergic to this material.
· Easy care of the mouthguard and oral cavity. The design does not complicate or interfere with proper hygiene. It can be easily and quickly removed before brushing your teeth or eating.
Types of designs and their differences
There are several types of retainers for teeth after braces . It is better to choose the most suitable one together with your doctor. Devices can be classified by size and type of material, but the classic basis for dividing products into groups is the ability to independently remove the simulator. So, there are fixed and removable retainers . Each type has its own characteristics and advantages.
Fixed retainers
Models that cannot be removed are more popular, so first you should understand what it is - a non-removable retainer . The device is a small fixing wire that is attached to the inside of the teeth. It is installed by the doctor immediately after the braces are removed.
The non-removable structure is almost impossible to see
There have been many studies on the effect of wire on teeth . Most dentists agree that the product is absolutely safe for enamel. It is attached with a special composite material and practically does not interfere with the patient.
On average, after the installation of retainers , a week must pass for the patient to stop noticing them. The only inconvenience he faces is the need for more thorough brushing of his teeth. While wearing it, it is recommended to use a special irrigator with an attachment that provides more thorough oral care.
Removable structures
A removable retainer is also called a “retention mouth guard.” At its core, the device is the same aligner with a metal arch, which does not need to affect the bite. Unlike removable systems, such systems require diligence and pedantry from the patient: it is necessary to strictly follow the doctor’s instructions, wear the products for the prescribed time, day and night.
Often, a removable retainer becomes an addition to a fixed model. Then it is worn overnight and removed for the day, but the wire remains on the teeth for 24 hours. Such measures are necessary if the doctor notices very strong bite resistance or if the wire is not effective enough for some molars or incisors.
Removable retainers are easy to put on but still noticeable on the teeth.
There are two types of removable retainers after braces :
- for both jaws. They are usually prescribed to be worn during the night, since such designs do not allow talking or drinking;
- retainers on the upper jaw or lower jaw - as necessary. Such models can be prescribed instead of a non-removable device, then they will have to be worn more often.
If non-removable models require the patient to spend time thoroughly cleaning the oral cavity, then when wearing removable ones, you may notice that this dental retainer requires more attention and care. It is advisable to regularly rinse and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Another type of removable retainer. It is used less often, because hard elements harm the teeth and are very noticeable.
In some cases, the doctor gives preference to newer means - trainers. Read more about them in a separate article: Trainers for teeth straightening: description, varieties, tips for use...
Disadvantages of silicone braces
· Due to the high cost of the dental structure, not all patients can afford to have it installed. During the course of therapy, the design will have to be changed more than once. As a result, the cost of treatment increases significantly.
· Due to the milder effect on the body, treatment with silicone braces takes a little longer than with other structures of a similar purpose.
· The material is very sensitive to high temperature and under its influence the mouth guard can become deformed.
· When wearing it, careful and complete oral care is required, especially before each time the mouth guard is put on.
· Before the first installation of the structure, a thin layer of composite material is applied to the teeth, which is removed only after completion of treatment.
· The mouth guard has a very limited list of indications. Silicone braces cannot solve serious dental problems.
Indications for wearing silicone braces
There is no strict age limit for wearing silicone braces. Their help is resorted to in cases where other types of braces are simply not suitable for certain reasons. However, it should be taken into account that in patients aged forty years and older, the skeletal system has already formed and is highly durable. Therefore, it will no longer make sense for them to wear silicone braces.
Silicone structures are used in the following situations:
· if patients are allergic to the materials from which other braces and structures are made to correct the bite and straighten the dentition;
Shy children for whom wearing metal braces causes severe stress;
· public figures - teachers, lecturers, actors, politicians, for whom looking perfect is their main priority;
· when it is necessary to straighten the dentition after an injury or reconstructive maxillofacial surgery, as well as when constant access to the wound surface is needed for treatment.
However, silicone braces cannot help eliminate gaps, severely crooked or misaligned teeth, or pull out an unerupted tooth. They are only suitable for use in cases of minor deviation from the norm. Severe defects will have to be eliminated with more serious dental structures.
Treatment regimen with silicone braces
Treatment using silicone braces takes place in several stages. At the initial examination, the doctor directs the patient to take an x-ray, after which he determines the advisability of using silicone braces.
Next, he selects the required type of mouthguards, which can be either standard or individual. The first option is not suitable for everyone and is considered less effective. Therefore, in most cases, the patient is offered to make an individual model, taking into account all the features of his oral cavity.
With the patient's consent, the dentist takes an impression of the teeth. Next, in a dental laboratory, using computer modeling, they recreate a 3D model of the dentition and send it to a company that produces silicone braces.
Manufacturers will make 20-30 different sets of mouth guards. Their exact number will depend on the severity of the dental problem.
After fitting, the doctor applies a composite material to the surface of the teeth. In addition, he will definitely give recommendations on wearing and caring for silicone braces.
The patient wears one aligner for about two weeks, after which he changes it to a new one. The course of treatment is approximately six months to two years. Its duration depends on the complexity of the case.
Popular manufacturers
Just a few years ago, there was only a standard version on sale, which contained only wax and silicone. Today the situation has changed radically. There are quite a few manufacturers, each of them produces a different composition. Let's look at the most popular means:
- 3M. The manufacturer produces the product in the form of a rod. The required amount will have to be cut with scissors. Among the advantages, we can note the natural composition; orthodontic wax from this manufacturer does not cause an allergic reaction and does not contain dyes or flavors.
- Dentaid. Differs in taste variety. The composition contains natural extracts of anise, peppermint and various fruits. The product is produced in Spain.
- Zingardi. It has a natural composition and increased density. The price is very cheap compared to competitors. Additional benefits include antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. This effect is achieved due to vitamins and plant extracts included in the wax.
Proper care of silicone braces
To get the best results from the treatment, you must follow all the rules for caring for the silicone structure:
· Before each meal and before brushing your teeth, the aligner must be removed.
· Before putting it back on, you should thoroughly brush your teeth using toothpaste, mouthwash and floss.
· Store silicone braces in a special container, which is included with the aligners.
In addition, the patient must regularly wear the silicone structure and follow all the dentist’s recommendations. Otherwise, treatment may be delayed indefinitely. If you experience the slightest problem with your mouth guard, you should immediately contact a specialist.
Comparison of materials
Previously, dentists advised using wax so that the patient quickly gets used to braces in the mouth. However, it has many disadvantages, so many experts recommend using silicone.
A comparison of materials is presented in the table.
| Characteristic | Wax | Silicone |
| Time of application of the substance | Identically | Identically |
| Ease of application | Applies quickly and has the softest structure | Takes a long time to warm up in your hands |
| Ease of removal | It is more difficult to remove, pieces of wax may remain on the structure | Fast, hassle-free |
| Fastening quality | Average | High |
| Structure quality | Identically | Identically |
| Price category | Identically | Identically |
Based on the parameters in the table, it can be understood that silicone is a better alternative. But if you can’t buy it, wax will do.
How much do silicone braces cost?
The price of a silicone dental structure may vary somewhat. It depends on the material used and manufacturing technology. Moreover, the cost of standard models is quite affordable, while the price of individual silicone mouth guards is much higher.
Now there are many companies that make silicone mouth guards. But since this dental design is the development of American doctors, original models can only be made in clinics that have a special license.
Modern orthodontic treatment at the Moscow Dental Center
Professional orthodontic treatment of the dentofacial apparatus is carried out by experienced specialists. The latest technologies, modern equipment and high-quality materials are used in diagnostic and treatment procedures. Our center employs pediatric and adult orthodontists. You can make an appointment for a free consultation by phone.
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