Clear aligners are a discrete yet effective way to straighten teeth. They are a virtually invisible and removable alternative to traditional braces. If you are interested in orthodontic treatment but prefer a less visible method, clear aligners may be right for you.
Clear aligners are available at Hawthorne Orthodontics in Lawndale and the surrounding area. Our team can handle all of your child’s orthodontic and dental needs. Call us today at 310-921-8333 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Clear aligners are an alternative to conventional braces. Similar to braces, clear aligners apply gradual pressure to teeth to move them into alignment. However, clear aligners do this without the use of wires or brackets.
Clear aligners are strong plastic or acrylic trays, custom-fit to a patient’s mouth. Patients receive a series of these plastic trays throughout the treatment process. Each aligner is incrementally different, which moves teeth into the desired position over time.
Clear aligners are a beneficial treatment option for people who want straighter teeth but do not like the appearance of traditional braces. They are also a good option for people who completed previous orthodontic treatment before and want to make minor adjustments to their smiles. The removability of clear aligners also provides additional advantages.
Since patients can remove their clear aligners, they can brush and floss easily after meals. Many people appreciate the freedom to eat the foods and drinks they want throughout treatment. Clear aligners consist of flexible plastic, so they are more comfortable and less likely to irritate gums and inner cheeks.
Before treatment can begin, we must examine the patient and take X-rays, impressions, or digital scans of their teeth. We will use this information to create a proper diagnosis and use aligner technology to plan the treatment process. The treatment process will involve determining which tooth will move and when to guide teeth into proper alignment.
Then, we will create a series of clear aligners that gently guide teeth into position over time. Patients will need to wear their aligners for 22 hours each day to see results. Patients will wear each set of aligners for one to three weeks before moving on to the next set. The total number of aligners will differ for each patient and their needs. Usually, treatment lasts between 10 to 24 months.
Although clear aligners are a great option for many people, the aligners are not the best treatment option for everyone. Since we customize these plastic trays to fit tightly over teeth, they are best for teens and adults. Children’s mouths are still growing, which can make straightening their teeth more complicated.
These aligners are also ideal for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as crowded teeth or crowding issues. People with more severe problems, such as severe underbites or crossbites, may require more complex treatment. Clear aligners also require a high degree of patient compliance. Good candidates for this treatment must be responsible enough to keep track of their aligners and follow all instructions.
Even though patients wear each set of aligners for only a few weeks at a time, it is still essential to take care of them. Patients should rinse their trays every time they remove them to prevent plaque and saliva from building up and causing them to become stained and discolored. It is also crucial to brush aligners with an anti-bacterial soap in the morning and at night to keep the aligners clean and prevent odor-causing buildup.
Aligners also need to be soaked every day for about 30 minutes with a special clear aligner soak or denture cleaner to kill bacteria on the trays. Brushing and flossing must occur after every meal to remove food particles that allow bacteria to eat at tooth enamel. Following these simple instructions can prevent decay and maintain clear aligners’ undetectable appearance.
People who want to enhance their smile with straighter teeth without visible orthodontic appliances can benefit from clear aligners. Our orthodontist and team at Hawthorne Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 310-921-8333 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Can I wear my clear aligners while eating or drinking?
No, wearing aligners while eating or drinking can compromise treatment progress or damage the trays. Teeth are b, and their chewing force can crack the trays. Additionally, eating or drinking with aligners will cause them to become stained and messy.
Do clear aligners hurt?
Mild pain or discomfort while wearing clear aligners is normal. This discomfort is temporary and should only last the first few days after a patient starts using a new aligner. These feelings are a sign that the clear aligners are working and moving teeth into proper alignment.
What are the benefits of straight teeth?
Besides improved aesthetic appearance, there are many additional benefits to straight teeth. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and healthy and less likely to chip, break, or crack. There is also less wear and tear on teeth, gums, and the jaw since properly aligned teeth can handle biting and chewing properly without excessive stress or pressure.
What happens if I lose my aligner?
If an aligner is lost, it is imperative to let us know. Not wearing an aligner can cause patients to lose their progress since teeth will shift back into their previous positions. Our team will help determine the best action to maintain a patient’s progress.
How much do clear aligners cost?
The cost of clear aligners will vary for each patient. Factors such as the extent of treatment and how much the patient’s insurance plan covers will affect the cost. People should contact their insurance provider for more information before seeking treatment.