Clear aligners offer patients a new way to straighten their teeth without the use of bulky, visible metal. Their subtle appearance makes them preferable among self-conscious teenagers and adults, and their removability remains a positive feature when it comes to enjoying mealtime. But what does the start-to-finish process look like? What can you expect as someone planning to pursue orthodontic treatment without the use of metal? Keep reading to learn what is required for clear aligner success.
Step 1: Your Initial Consultation
Before you can begin clear aligner treatment, you must meet with your dentist to discuss your eligibility. This requires having digital images taken and undergoing a complete oral examination.
Your dentist will determine the type of dental issue that requires treatment (i.e., overcrowding, gaps between teeth, or a bite misalignment) and evaluate whether clear aligners will be enough to address the problem.
Step 2: Receiving Your Custom-Made Aligners
Once you are cleared for treatment, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and bite so that lab technicians can begin to craft your custom-made trays. This will likely take a few weeks, as each set of aligners must correspond to the changes your smile will undergo at each phase.
When ready, your aligners will arrive at your dentist’s office, which means you will be required to come in and be fitted with your initial set. Your dental team will make sure you understand how to insert and remove your aligners, as well as provide additional instructions for you to follow throughout treatment, such as:
- When to remove your trays (before eating a meal, when cleaning your aligners, etc.)
- How long you should wear your trays each day to avoid a delay in treatment
- When you will need to swap out your current trays for the next ones
- How to properly clean your aligners to avoid bacterial buildup over time
Step 3: Meeting with Your Dentist for Follow-Up Appointments
Throughout treatment, you will be required to meet with your dentist for follow-up appointments. These are different from those required of patients wearing metal braces, as there is no wire to tighten or replace.
Your dental team will only need to review your progress to make sure your teeth are shifting in the right direction. If adjustments are required, you can expect them to occur during these visits.
Step 4: Retention
Once you are finished with clear aligner treatment, your dentist will recommend retention so that your teeth remain in their new location. This will require you to wear a customized retainer full-time for several months; however, you will eventually switch to only wearing it at night while you’re asleep.
The step-by-step clear aligner process does not require much, only your commitment. Your dentist will offer instructions and guidance along the way to ensure your orthodontic experience leads to long-lasting, beautiful results.
About the Author
Dr. Tracy Jenkins is a detailed and artistic dentist who cares about providing exceptional care and results for those who seek his expertise. Offering clear aligners as a reliable alternative to traditional braces, he can make the process simple, easy, and worth the investment. If you would like to discuss your options for treatment when looking to straighten your teeth, visit our website or call (208) 522-8061 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jenkins today.