Patients who are considering clear aligners to correct their smile may have a few questions about the system. Aligners are taking the orthodontic world by storm, gaining popularity for their ease of use. Clear aligners are more comfortable, less visible and often more affordable than braces.
Before getting started on the journey toward straight teeth, there are a few things you may want to know about the clear aligners system.
Clear aligners are trays that are made of a high quality, flexible plastic. This specialized plastic is stain, warp and scratch resistant. The plastic is strong enough to fit snugly over each tooth while being smooth enough to remain clear and not irritate the inner lining of the mouth or lips.
Each aligner tray is customized and is meant to be worn for a period ranging from one to two weeks (depending on the level of movement desired). The doctors that are able to prescribe clear aligners go through extensive training to make sure they are able to achieve the right results. Each aligner is designed to offer the controlled movement of each tooth, applying the right amount of force needed to straighten the smile.
Their main allure is that they are virtually invisible. Many adult patients choose clear aligners because they do not disrupt their lifestyle. The plastic trays fit securely over the teeth, so much so that many people may not even realize they are being worn when the patient smiles or speaks.
Clear aligners are also completely removable, which means the teeth can be fully cleaned. This offers better oral health benefits as well. The trays should be removed to brush and floss, eat and while drinking coffee or tea. However, they can also be removed for special occasions or photographs.
Unlike braces, clear aligners do not have brackets or wires that can break and irritate the inner lining of the mouth. This makes aligners a more comfortable choice.
Clear aligners are an ideal teeth straightening solution for adult and adolescent patients who want to improve their smile discreetly. Most orthodontic issues can be fixed by clear aligners, from underbites and overbites to crooked teeth and crossbite issues. However, while aligners are well-equipped to correct mild to moderate smile problems, severe cases may need the assistance of traditional braces.
During a consultation appointment, the trained doctor will evaluate the smile of the patient. After discussing the goals of the treatment, the doctor will then come up with a week-by-week, customized treatment plan.
When the first set of aligners is ready, the trays should be worn for at least 20-22 hours each day. The longer each tray is worn throughout the day, the quicker the treatment time and the faster the results. Depending on each specific treatment plan, aligners will be changed out for a new set every one to two weeks. The aligners will move the teeth closer and closer to the final result until the smile is completely straightened.
On average, treatment time usually takes anywhere from 12 to 18 months. The treatment time completely depends on the complexity of each case and how often the aligners are worn. However, patients should start to see improvements within the first month of treatment.
If you have any further questions, we would be happy to answer them. Schedule an appointment with our trained dentists today to get on your way to straight teeth.
Request an appointment here: https://www.texasstarsmiles.com or call Texas Star Smiles & Fastbraces at (254) 237-1342 for an appointment in our Killeen office.
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