Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a great option for both teens and adults who want to correct a variety of orthodontic issues, including:

• Crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbites
• Underbites
• Crossbites

Gone are the days of messy putty molds! Nowadays, we use a small, wand-like scanner to capture detailed 3D images of your teeth. This allows us to create a precise digital model of your smile which we then use to design your customized treatment plan. It even helps us show you a virtual representation of what your teeth will look like after your clear aligner treatment!

It’s very important to keep your aligner trays clean and free of bacteria. Luckily, they’re pretty easy to clean. Simply brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and clear liquid soap (like dish soap). Avoid using hot water, harsh chemicals, or toothpaste, as these can damage the aligners.

• Rinse: After removing your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water to remove debris. Avoid hot water, as it can warp them.
• Brush: Gently brush your aligners with a soft toothbrush and clear, liquid soap to remove plaque and food particles. Avoid toothpaste, as it can scratch or discolor them.
• Soak: For a deeper clean, soak your aligners in a denture cleaner or a solution specifically designed for clear aligners. Ask us about solutions tailored for SureSmile. Avoid colored soaps and harsh chemicals, as these can damage or discolor your aligners.
• Dry: Before putting your aligners back in, let them air dry or gently pat them dry with a clean, lint-free cloth.
• Inspect: Regularly check your aligners for any damage. If you notice any issues, contact us right away.
• Store: Store your aligners in their case when not in use to keep them clean and protected. Avoid exposing your aligners to extreme temperatures, like hot water or direct sunlight.

Don’t panic! Just contact us right away. Depending on the situation, we may be able to repair a minor crack, provide a replacement aligner, or adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Clear aligners are designed to be worn for most of the day and night. We ensure a snug and comfortable fit to keep your aligners firmly in place so you don’t need to worry about them slipping out of place!

Some patients experience a slight lisp during the initial adjustment period when wearing new aligners. This usually comes right within a few days as your tongue adapts to the aligners.

Your teeth have a tendency to shift back into their former position, especially in the months following the completion of your treatment. This is why it is essential to wear a retainer to maintain your new, straighter smile. Our dentists will determine the ideal wearing schedule for your specific case, but it’s typically recommended for long-term use overnight.

There are many factors that determine the cost of your clear aligner treatment:

• the complexity of the dental issues you want to correct
• how long your treatment plan will last
• the specific treatment details prescribed by the dentist

Clear aligners use more advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology to help you achieve a straight, beautiful smile in as little as one year. It may come as a surprise, then, to learn that clear aligners cost about the same as traditional metal braces.

You may also qualify for clear aligners if your dental plan covers orthodontic treatment. Talk to your insurance provider to determine the extent of coverage for your treatment. Our office will work with your plan to ensure your benefits are maximized. And if you don’t have insurance, not to worry! We have an in-house membership plan specifically tailored to help you get the smile of your dreams without finances getting in the way.

The average length of treatment time for clear aligners is one year, from start to finish, depending on the complexity of your individual case. When straightening your smile with clear aligners, it’s best to come in for an appointment every six to eight weeks to check your progression and change out your trays.