Inman Aligner

This is the name of a fast acting brace which is ideally suited to the front teeth only. It works by moving the teeth back into position by means of small movements within a period of 8 weeks. It is one of several options for straightening crooked or misaligned teeth but is not suitable in cases of overcrowded teeth.

It is a viable alternative to Invisalign braces.

What does the Inman Aligner look like?

It consists of a coil spring and bar which work in conjunction with each other. They operate a ‘push/pull’ system which forces the teeth into their correct alignment.

It is very similar in appearance to a clear gumshield which fits neatly over the teeth.

There are 4 types of Inman Aligner which include the standard aligner, the white bow aligner, the clear bow aligner and the newer invisible aligner. The white and clear versions are chosen for their cosmetic applications.

How does the Inman Aligner work?

The coil spring pushes against the back of the teeth whereas the bar exerts force against the front of the teeth which effectively, squeezes them into place.

This takes from 6 to 16 weeks although the outcome depends upon how long you wear the brace for. The longer you wear the brace the quicker the results. But these results vary depending upon the extent of the problem.

A simple case may be corrected in a month whereas a complex form of correction can take up to 4 months.

Ideally, you should aim to wear this brace for 20 to 22 hours a day.

Advantages of the Inman Aligner

There are several advantages which include:

• Ease of use and remove
• Easy to clean
• Attractive looking brace
• An alternative to invisible braces
• Cheaper than invisible braces
• Quick results
• Only a single brace is needed (it does not need to be replaced every two weeks).

This brace enjoys many of the benefits of invisible braces.

Disadvantages of the Inman Aligner

It is important to consider the pros and cons of any brace before making a decision.

There are a few downsides to the Inman Aligner which include:

• They are only suitable for problems with the front teeth. They are not advisable for overcrowded teeth or other similar issues.
• This brace is not entirely transparent as compared to invisible braces. There is a small metal bar which rests against the front teeth and can be seen.
• Less movement of the brace as compared to Invisalign or other invisible braces.
• Not as widely available as other types of braces
• Not suitable for children

How is the Inman Aligner fitted?

The process starts with a discussion about your orthodontic needs and the condition of your teeth in general. Your dental records will also be referred to.

The aim is to ensure that the Inman Aligner fits exactly to the shape of your teeth.

This initial meeting is followed by a series of 3 or 4 short consultations in which the brace is fitted and reviewed. Minor adjustments may need to be made which will take place in the last two appointments.

You may experience some initial discomfort and find that your speech is also affected. But this soon disappears once you become accustomed to wearing your brace.

The dentist will provide you with instructions regard the amount of time to wear the brace and how to care for it.