When it comes to getting the right treatment plan for your needs, there are a lot of options – and clear aligners are one of the most popular. If you’ve ever wondered how clear aligners work, what to expect during treatment, and how they compare to traditional braces, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about clear aligners.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are a modern alternative to traditional braces. When you get clear aligners, you’ll get a set of custom-made, transparent, removable trays that fit snugly over your teeth to gradually move them into the desired position.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Invisible Appearance
Clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for adults and teens who want a discreet orthodontic option.
Comfortable
Made from smooth plastic, clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional metal braces.
Removable
You can take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss, which makes maintaining oral hygiene easier.
Fewer Orthodontist Visits
Clear aligner treatment typically requires fewer check-ups compared to traditional braces.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
Initial Consultation
Your journey with clear aligners begins with an initial consultation at Goings Orthodontics. During this visit, Dr. Goings and his team will examine your teeth and discuss your treatment goals. Dr. Goings recommends clear aligners for nearly all patients. If clear aligners are a good fit for you, we will take digital impressions or scans of your teeth.
Custom Treatment Plan
Using the digital impressions, Dr. Goings creates a customized treatment plan. This plan maps out the precise movements of your teeth and estimates the duration of your treatment. You’ll even get to see a digital preview of your new smile!
Receiving Your Aligners
Once your aligners are ready, you’ll receive a series of trays. Each set of aligners is designed to be worn for approximately one to two weeks. You’ll wear them for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Every set of aligners will move your teeth slightly until your teeth reach their final position.
What to Expect During Treatment
Adjusting to Your Aligners
When you first start wearing clear aligners, you might feel some discomfort or pressure. This is normal and a sign that the aligners are working. The discomfort should subside after a few days. Remember, it’s important to wear your aligners as prescribed to achieve the best results.
Monitoring Progress
Throughout your treatment, you’ll have regular check-ups with Dr. Goings to monitor your progress. These visits are typically less frequent than with traditional braces. Our team will ensure that your treatment is on track and make any necessary adjustments.
Maintaining Your Aligners
Keeping your aligners clean is paramount for your treatment success. Here are some tips:
- Rinse Them Regularly: Rinse your aligners with water every time you take them out.
- Brush Them Gently: Use a soft toothbrush to clean your aligners with water. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive.
- Soak Them Daily: Soak your aligners in a cleaning solution, such as denture cleaner or retainer cleaner, to keep them fresh and free of bacteria.
Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces
Appearance
Clear aligners are nearly invisible, while traditional braces are noticeable due to their metal brackets and wires. If you prefer a discreet option, clear aligners are the way to go.
Comfort
Clear aligners are made from smooth plastic, which is gentler on the gums and cheeks compared to the metal wires and brackets of traditional braces.
Convenience
With clear aligners, you can eat and drink whatever you want since they are removable. Traditional braces come with dietary restrictions to avoid damaging the brackets and wires.
Oral Hygiene
Clear aligners make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene. You can brush and floss normally after removing the aligners. Traditional braces require extra effort to clean around the brackets and wires.
Are Clear Aligners Right for You?
Clear aligners are suitable for treating various orthodontic issues, including:
Crowded Teeth
When there’s not enough space in your mouth for all your teeth.
Gaps
When there’s too much space between your teeth.
Overbite
When your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth too much.
Underbite
When your lower teeth overlap your upper teeth.
Crossbite
When some of your upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth.
During your consultation, Dr. Goings will determine if clear aligners are the right option for you.
Smile with Us
Clear aligners are an excellent option for achieving a beautiful, straight smile without the hassle of traditional braces. At Goings Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing you with the best orthodontic care and helping you achieve your dream smile. If you’re ready to start your journey with clear aligners, schedule a consultation with us today!
