Clear Aligners

Everything You Need to Know About Clear Aligners

Are you looking for a way to improve your smile without the inconvenience of traditional braces? If so, clear aligners may be just the solution you're looking for. Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable trays to gradually shift teeth into their ideal position. They're an increasingly popular option for adults and teens who want to improve the appearance of their smile without the visibility of metal braces.

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable trays to straighten teeth. They're designed for adults and teens who want to improve the appearance of their smile without the visibility of traditional metal braces.

These transparent aligners are made from a thermoplastic material, custom-made for each patient. They fit snugly over the teeth and exert gentle pressure to gradually move the teeth into a more ideal position. Unlike traditional braces, they're nearly invisible when worn, making them an attractive option for those who don't want their orthodontic treatment to be visible.

How Do Clear Aligners Work?

Clear aligners work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth over time. The trays are custom-made for each patient and are designed to be worn for 22 hours per day. Every couple of weeks, you'll switch to a new set of trays as your teeth gradually move into their ideal position.

The process begins with an initial consultation where our dentist will assess whether clear aligners are suitable for your specific orthodontic needs. If so, they will take impressions or 3D scans of your teeth to create a digital model. This is then used to design a series of custom-made trays that will gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.

Each set of aligners should be worn for approximately two weeks before switching to the next set in the series. During this time, you'll need to wear the trays consistently to ensure they can do their job effectively. Most people find clear aligners comfortable and easy to wear, although there may be some minor discomfort as your teeth gradually move.

Benefits of Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer several benefits compared to traditional metal braces:

• Discreet treatment: Since clear aligners are almost invisible when worn, most people won't even notice you're undergoing orthodontic treatment.
• Minimal discomfort: Unlike metal braces, there are no wires or brackets to potentially poke your mouth or cause sores. Some patients may experience temporary discomfort as their teeth adjust to each new set of trays, but this is generally mild and subsides quickly.
• Removable: Unlike fixed braces, clear aligners can be removed for eating and cleaning. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.
• Great option for mild to moderate orthodontic issues: Clear aligners are an effective treatment for a wide range of dental problems, including crowded teeth, spacing issues, and bite problems.

Length of Treatment

The length of clear aligner treatment varies depending on the individual patient's needs, but it typically takes 6-18 months to achieve desired results. Patients will need to visit our office regularly for check-ups and to receive new trays.

During these check-ups, we'll assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. It's important that you wear your aligners consistently and as instructed during this time to ensure the best possible results.

Risks and Complications

While clear aligners are generally safe and effective, there are some risks and complications to be aware of:

• Tooth decay: Since clear aligners are removable, some patients may find it tempting to take them out too often or not clean their teeth properly. This can increase the risk of tooth decay, so it's important to brush and floss regularly during treatment.
• Gum irritation: Some people may experience mild gum irritation as their teeth adjust to each new set of trays. This is usually temporary and should subside within a few days.
• Root resorption: In rare cases, prolonged orthodontic treatment can lead to root shortening or resorption. This is more common with traditional braces but can also occur with clear aligners. Our dentist will monitor your teeth closely during treatment to ensure this doesn't happen.

Affordability and Flexible Payment Options

The cost of clear aligner treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment. At Plainfield Family Dental Center, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality dental care, which is why we offer flexible financing options to make treatment more affordable for our patients.

We'll work with you to develop a payment plan that fits your budget and ensures you receive the care you need. Don't let cost be a barrier to achieving a beautiful, healthy smile.

Expectations During Treatment

During clear aligner treatment, you'll need to wear your trays consistently and attend regular check-ups with us. We'll monitor your progress and provide guidance on how to care for your teeth during treatment.

• Wearing your trays: To get the best results from clear aligner treatment, it's important that you wear your trays consistently - at least 22 hours per day. You can remove them when eating or brushing your teeth, but be sure to put them back in as soon as possible.
• Caring for your trays: To keep your clear aligners clean and hygienic, you should brush them gently with toothpaste before rinsing them off. Avoid using hot water, as this can warp the plastic material.
• Regular check-ups: You'll need to visit us regularly for check-ups during treatment. These appointments allow us to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Clear aligners are an effective and discreet way to improve the appearance of your smile without the inconvenience of traditional metal braces. At Plainfield Family Dental Center, we offer clear aligner treatment for adults and teens with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Contact us today to learn more about this exciting option!