Clear aligners have changed the game for orthodontic treatment, transforming smiles discreetly without uncomfortable metal wires or brackets. However, they still require the proper care and commitment to give you optimal results you feel proud to show off. Whether you’re considering clear aligners or just started your treatment, it’s important to know how they work, how to care for them, what to expect, and how to maintain your results for years to come.
At Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re committed to making your aligner treatment as seamless and effective as possible. We work with you from the beginning so you can make informed decisions for your oral health. Our team provides personalized guidance to help you navigate everything from cleaning and wear time to common challenges. With the right support, achieving your perfect smile can be easier than you think.
Understanding Your Aligner Treatment and How It Works
Starting clear aligner treatment is an exciting step toward a straighter, healthier smile you feel confident in. With an approximate 80 to 90% success rate, this solution has revolutionized orthodontic care. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are nearly undetectable and designed to be more comfortable and flexible, but do you know how they work? We can help you understand everything you need to know about clear aligners, including the following:
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
Clear aligners are custom-made, ultra-thin plastic trays that shift your teeth into place over time. Using advanced imaging technology, we take a 3D scan of your teeth. This is used to show how your smile will change over the course of your treatment and as a model for your clear aligners. When your aligners are complete, you will receive several sets that change as your teeth shift.
During your treatment, you should wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours per day, changing them every one to two weeks as your teeth move. This ensures optimal results and keeps your treatment on track. Each new set of trays builds on the previous one and continues to move your teeth into their ideal positions.
How to Care for Your Aligners
Your clear aligners are removable, making it easy to keep them and your teeth clean throughout your treatment. Remove your trays before drinking or eating anything besides water, and brush your teeth thoroughly before you put them back in. You can also clean your aligners daily with lukewarm water, a soft toothbrush, mild soap, or a cleaning solution. This helps prevent bacteria and food particles from getting trapped in your aligners and reduces your risk of cavities or infections.
How Long Will Your Treatment Take?
The length of your clear aligner treatment largely depends on your smile concerns and their complexity. However, in general, treatment can take anywhere from six to 18 months. Some patients may see results even quicker or take up to two years. In some cases, clear aligners work faster than traditional braces and require less frequent follow-ups, making them a much more convenient option to fit into your busy schedule.
How to Maintain Your Results After Aligners
After your clear aligner treatment, we will take impressions of your brand-new smile to create a retainer for you to wear at night. This is crucial for maintaining your results and keeping your smile straight. Keeping your retainer clean, brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings can help you maintain your results for a lifetime.
Learn More About Clear Aligners With the Caring Team at Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Choosing clear aligners is an investment in your smile, and we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free. At Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide expert guidance every step of the way, from your initial consultation to post-treatment care. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident, comfortable, and informed throughout your aligner journey.
If you’re considering clear aligners or want to ensure you’re getting the best possible outcome from your current treatment, we’re here to help. Let’s work together to create the smile you’ve always wanted with expert care tailored to your needs. Schedule a consultation by calling (910) 251-8174 or filling out our contact form today.