Notes on Aligners vs. Braces Lecture

Introduction

• Guest: Dr. Ryan Raditya Chandra, Orthodontist
• Co-host: Dr. Rahmalani, Dentist

Overview of Aligners

• Definition: Aligners are clear plastic mouthpieces created from molds or digital scans of teeth.
• Function: They apply gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into proper alignment.

Aligners vs. Retainers

• Aligners:
  • Active appliance used during orthodontic treatment.
  • Guides teeth into correct position.
• Retainers:
  • Passive appliance used after orthodontic treatment.
  • Maintains the new structure of teeth post-treatment.

Aligners vs. Braces

• Main Differences:
  • Braces: Metal wire system.
  • Aligners: Clear plastic, removable appliances.
• Commitment: Aligners require 22 hours of wear per day.
• Treatment Duration: Typically 1-2 years, depending on complexity of case.
  • Faster results possible for less complicated cases.

Comfort & Pain

• Aligners: Generally more comfortable due to personalized fit.
• Braces: May cause more pain due to metal components.
  • Aligners may still cause medium-scale pain as they adjust teeth.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Aligners

• Advantages:
  • Invisible and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Convenient: Removable for eating, allows for a wider diet.
  • Easier dental hygiene maintenance.
• Disadvantages:
  • Requires commitment to wear for 22 hours per day.

Cost Comparison

• Aligners:
  • Local brands: 15-20 million rupiahs.
  • International brands: 50-80 million rupiahs.
• Braces: Cost varies based on system and materials used.

Extraction Considerations

• Aligners: Extraction of teeth may depend on severity of crowding:
  • Mild to moderate crowding: May not require extraction.
  • Moderate to severe crowding: Extraction may be necessary.

Quiz Segment: Facts or Myths

• Activity: Dr. Ryan answers statements regarding aligners and braces.
• Example questions:
  1. Using aligners can cause slurred speech - Myth.
  2. Aligners are not safe for children - Myth (can start from age 7).
  3. One can avoid tooth extraction with aligners - Myth (depends on case).

Conclusion

• Dr. Ryan thanks the hosts and audience, sharing insights on the importance of choosing the right orthodontic treatment.