Sarah Weston explains why clear aligners present a powerful and profitable addition to general dental practices.
Clear aligners, initially associated with orthodontic correction for malocclusion, are increasingly being incorporated into general dental practices. With growing patient awareness, advancements in technology, and the demand for discreet treatment options, clear aligners now serve multiple purposes beyond traditional orthodontics. From improving oral hygiene to enhancing restorative treatments, clear aligners are reshaping dental care in new and impactful ways.
The rise of clear aligners in general practice
Over recent decades, the clear aligner market has experienced significant growth. Increased patient awareness, driven by online research and marketing, has made aligners a mainstream choice for a wider range of dental issues. Patients now actively request clear aligners, not only for cosmetic reasons but also for their functional benefits.
In response, general dentists are adopting aligner technology to remain competitive, elevate patient satisfaction, and provide advanced treatment options that meet patient preferences.
Clear aligners beyond malocclusion treatment
Traditionally, clear aligners were used primarily to correct malocclusion and achieve aesthetic outcomes. Today, however, aligners are employed in various scenarios that benefit general dental practices:
Enhanced oral hygiene
For patients with crowding or poor alignment, clear aligners improve oral hygiene by being removable, allowing better access for cleaning compared to fixed braces. This benefit is particularly valuable for patients at risk of gum disease, as improved alignment can reduce reliance on frequent hygiene visits and mitigate the long-term risk of gingivitis or periodontal disease.
Restorative treatment support
Clear aligners are valuable in treatment planning for restorative procedures, such as creating space for crowns or bridges. By aligning teeth prior to restorative work, aligners contribute to optimal positioning, resulting in better functional and aesthetic outcomes. Often, this pre-treatment with aligners takes only a few months.
Management of tooth wear in older patients
Older patients face unique challenges, including gum recession, tooth wear, and loss of bone density. Clear aligners can help manage these issues by realigning teeth to prevent further wear and reduce the need for more invasive treatments, like crowns and bridges. For older patients, aligners offer a less invasive, more comfortable alternative to traditional braces, helping them maintain their natural dentition and avoid tooth loss or the need for dentures.
Improving patient communication and compliance
Effective communication between dentists and patients is crucial when discussing treatment options like teeth straightening. A simple question such as, ‘Have you ever considered straightening your teeth?’ can open up a valuable conversation about orthodontic options, including clear aligners. This approach allows patients to explore treatment possibilities they may not have previously considered, empowering them to make informed decisions.
Mitigating risks of supervised neglect
In today’s information-driven environment, patients are increasingly proactive about their healthcare, often researching treatments online. Dentists who fail to discuss relevant options risk ‘supervised neglect’ allegations, where patients may later claim they were not fully informed of available treatments.
By routinely discussing all appropriate options and ensuring informed consent, dentists not only provide comprehensive patient care but also protect their practices from potential legal and ethical issues.
Clear aligners as a versatile tool in general practice
Clear aligners are an invaluable tool for general dentists seeking to expand their service offerings. Their versatility makes them suitable for a variety of dental applications, including:
- Orthodontic correction of malocclusion
- Pre-treatment alignment for restorative cases like crowns and bridges
- Enhanced oral hygiene by correcting crowding
- Support for older patients with occlusion and wear issues.
As patient expectations shift and the demand for aesthetic treatment options grows, clear aligners present a powerful and profitable addition to general dental practices.
Dr Sarah Weston is a key opinion leader for ClearCorrect and is a speaker on the ClearCorrect Level 1 Accreditation Course.
Find out more about ClearCorrect today.
This article is sponsored by Straumann.
