How do I care for my Clear Aligners?
Caring for your clear aligners properly ensures that there won’t be a buildup of bacteria, discoloration, or other issues. Every morning, remove your aligners and clean them thoroughly with antibacterial soap to remove bacteria that built up overnight. Follow this same procedure before you go to bed at night.
Your clear aligners should also be soaked once each day to loosen any particles that may have adhered to them. After you’ve finished soaking the aligners, you can remove plaque from your aligners by brushing them with a soft toothbrush.
When you remove your aligners to eat, remember to rinse them to keep them as clean as possible throughout the day.
What is the treatment process?
The clear aligner treatment process requires you to wear clear aligners that move your teeth slowly over time. These aligners are made using impressionless scans and are designed specifically for you, putting gentle force on your teeth to move them into better alignment. You will change your aligners approximately every two weeks. Your orthodontist will monitor your progress and make changes to your aligners as needed.
Do you use traditional impressions?
We do not! Our practice uses state-of-the-art digital scanning technology for all treatment starts. These digital scans also allow us to create a more accurate model of your smile, meaning better bracket placement and more efficient adjustments. Plus, no messy, uncomfortable, and goopy impressions that make you gag!
How much do clear aligners cost?
The cost of clear aligners will vary based on the condition of your teeth. Keep in mind that many patients can reduce their out-of-pocket costs for clear aligners by taking advantage of their insurance benefits. You can learn more about how much your clear aligners will cost by talking to our team.
How often do you change clear aligner trays?
Clear aligner trays should be changed approximately every two to four weeks, depending on your specific treatment plan. This allows your teeth to move gradually over time, causing you as little discomfort as possible.
Are clear aligners effective?
If you wear your prescribed aligners as directed by your orthodontist, this treatment is typically very effective. Like braces, the aligners will gradually correct problems with the alignment of your teeth, resulting in a more attractive smile. Keep in mind that clear aligners may not be the right choice for every patient. Our team will take steps to make sure clear aligners are the best treatment option for you before we begin the process.
How long does it take for clear aligners to work?
Most people using clear aligners will begin to see results in just a few weeks. However, the entire length of the treatment process will vary based on several different factors. More significant alignment issues typically require you to spend more time in treatment with clear aligners.
Are there any diet restrictions?
When you wear clear aligners, you will remove the tray from your mouth any time you plan to eat. As a result, you won’t need to make any dietary changes or restrict your intake of any foods you enjoy.
How do aligners work?
Clear aligners work by putting pressure in specific locations, causing your teeth to move. Because you will wear your aligners every day, this pressure will result in lasting changes. Each time the aligners are changed, the pressure they exert is slightly different. Over time, the goal is to move your teeth into better alignment overall.
Are Clear Aligners right for me?
Clear aligners can be used in a wide variety of circumstances, allowing you to resolve alignment issues without the need for traditional braces. However, clear aligners are not the right choice for every patient who wants to improve the alignment of their teeth. Certain issues that require more intensive interventions to move the teeth may not improve with the use of clear aligners.
Clear aligners require a significant investment of both time and money. Our team will explain the process in detail and help you decide whether this is the right treatment option for you.
Can I use aligners for limited treatment?
Every patient’s treatment plan with clear aligners will be customized based on their needs and goals. If you are interested in limited treatment only, you may still be able to use clear aligners. However, ensuring permanent changes to your alignment will require you to follow the orthodontist’s instructions carefully, wearing your aligners exactly as directed, and continuing any follow-up care to maintain the results.
