Are you thinking about straightening your teeth but hate the idea of braces being the first thing people notice about you? Clear aligners might be the perfect solution. Instead of eye-catching brackets and wires, aligners use custom-made transparent trays that fit snugly against the teeth. This sleek, nearly invisible design has helped them quickly grow in popularity over the years, especially with adult patients.
Before scheduling a consultation at Goings Orthodontics, it’s important to understand what to expect. Here’s what every adult should know about clear aligners prior to starting treatment.
People Likely Won’t Notice You’re In Treatment
Worrying about how braces might affect your confidence at work, on dates, or in social settings is completely understandable. No one wants to feel self-conscious about their smile during an important meeting or a night out. That’s the beauty of clear aligners—they let you straighten your teeth without the noticeable brackets and wires.
Since they’re nearly invisible, you don’t have to stress about coworkers or clients noticing them in professional settings. If you have a big event, a first date, or an important presentation, you can confidently carry on conversations, laugh, and smile without a second thought—enjoying the confidence of knowing your teeth are improving without anyone else being the wiser.
You Receive A Personalized Treatment Schedule
When you receive your aligner series, Dr. Goings will provide a schedule for when to switch aligners. You must follow this timeline closely!
The schedule is based on the personalized treatment plan Dr. Goings created for you after a detailed assessment of your orthodontic needs. This plan is the safest, most efficient way to reach the smile of your dreams. Attempting to speed up the process by skipping ahead in the set or not wearing aligners as long as instructed could prolong treatment—the opposite of the desired effect! In worst-case scenarios, you could also suffer from unnecessary pain and increased risks.
Dr. Goings Recommends Clear Aligners to Nearly All Adults
Clear aligners are usually associated with adults wanting to make small changes to their smiles. In fact, many orthodontists and dentists limit clear aligner treatment to simple cases, but Dr. Goings’ expertise allows him to take a different approach. As one of the top 1% of clear aligner providers, he has successfully treated patients with complex orthodontic needs, including severe misalignment, bite issues, and other cases that might traditionally require braces.
Dr. Goings’ meticulous approach combines advanced diagnostic techniques with his deep understanding of tooth movement to ensure that even patients with challenging orthodontic concerns can achieve a functional, well-aligned smile—without unnecessary compromises. If you have been told that aligners aren’t an option for you, his expertise may provide a new path forward.
Aligners Require You To Pay Attention
Keeping track of your clear aligners is crucial when you’re an aligner patient. Misplacing them can disrupt your treatment schedule, and losing them may lead to unexpected costs and delays in achieving your ideal smile. No one wants to dig through the trash for a lost aligner—so make it a habit to keep them in sight whenever they’re not in your mouth. Better yet, always store them in their case. A case not only protects your aligners from germs and damage but also makes them easier to spot. Unlike transparent aligners, a case won’t blend into a restaurant table or hotel nightstand, reducing the risk of accidentally leaving them behind.
Because they must be worn for 22 hours a day, you’ll also need to be aware of how long you’re wearing them. You should only take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush your teeth. Forgetting to put them back in or inconsistently wearing them can slow your progress and extend your treatment time.
You Can Enjoy Food You Love
Let’s talk about that “take them out to eat and drink” part — because it’s actually a huge perk! With clear aligners, there are no food restrictions, meaning you can still enjoy all your favorite restaurants and snacks in Fort Collins and Windsor. Crunchy apples, chewy bagels, coffee, popcorn at the movies — nothing is off-limits. Unlike braces, there’s no worrying about food getting stuck or breaking a bracket.
Just take your aligners out before eating, brush your teeth before putting them back in, and you’re good to go. No hassle, no sacrifices—just the freedom to enjoy every meal while working toward a great smile.
No Brackets Doesn’t Mean No Discomfort
Clear aligners are designed to be smooth and comfortable. Still, like any orthodontic treatment, they come with a little soreness — but that just means they’re working! We’re taking advantage of your body’s natural bone remodeling process, which can cause some tenderness as your mouth adjusts to the shifts occurring.
This discomfort, which usually occurs whenever you wear a tray for the first time, typically resolves within a few days. In the meantime, though, you can take a few simple steps to keep it from disrupting your day:
- Orthodontic Wax: Braces wax creates a smooth barrier if your aligners rub against your gums or tongue, reducing irritation while your mouth adjusts.
- Soft Food: Tender teeth? Stick to sift food like smoothies, yogurt, soups, or scrambled eggs for a day or two.
- Ice: A cold compress can reduce inflammation or dull discomfort when used correctly.
- Take Care Of Your Aligners: Properly cleaned and stored clear aligners will be more comfortable because they won’t be warped or scratched.
Clear Aligners Must Be Cleaned
Not having to learn a new oral hygiene routine is one of the advantages that clear aligners have over clear braces. Since aligners can be removed, patients can brush and floss as they normally do. While that is a nice perk, adults considering aligner treatment must know that they will have to keep their aligners clean, which creates an additional step in the oral hygiene process.
Without proper cleaning, aligners can trap bacteria, leading to bad breath, foul-smelling aligners, plaque buildup, and gum irritation. To keep them fresh, soak your trays in an aligner cleanser or rinse and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and clear antibacterial soap. For more information on when and how to clean your aligners, please check out our “How Do I Take Care Of My Aligners?” blog.
Most Insurances Cover Aligners
Orthodontic coverage varies by insurance plan, and while some providers offer benefits for clear aligners, others may not. Fortunately, most plans cover aligners, so you likely won’t be limited to insurance constraints. Even still, it’s always a good idea to review your policy or speak with your dental insurance provider to understand what’s covered by our specific plan.
If you feel dread at the idea of talking to your insurance company, don’t worry! Goings Orthodontics would be happy to do so on your behalf. Our experienced team can help you maximize your benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. We can also help you set up a payment plan for any costs not covered by your insurance so that your treatment stays within budget and your dream smile remains attainable.
Don’t Wait Any Longer — Start Your Treatment Journey Today
At Goings Orthodontics, we believe it’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Dr. Goings and our caring team proudly serve adults in Fort Collins and Windsor, CO, providing expert care in a welcoming environment. Whether you’re exploring clear aligners or other treatment options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a free consultation today to get started on a smile that makes you feel confident every day!
