Facts Everyone Should Know Before Choosing a Clear Aligner

Choosing a clear aligner is a big decision, and you want to make the best decision possible. Our dentists in Montague have you covered. Before choosing a clear aligner, everyone should be aware of the following facts.

What should I know about clear aligners?

Clear aligners are removable orthodontic appliances that straighten your teeth just like braces do, only without the metal and wires. Clear aligners are made of transparent plastic material, making them look nearly 'invisible' to the casual observer when worn.

Before you make your final decision on which orthodontic option to choose, there are a few things you should consider. We enjoy assisting our patients in making educated decisions, so here are some things to consider about clear aligners.

Clear aligners are a discreet option many patients appreciate.

Your clear aligners will be custom-made to precisely fit your teeth, gradually moving them into their proper positions over a period of time, as prescribed by your dentist.

These aligners are clear, and to the untrained eye, they appear to be invisible on your teeth. As a result, they may be preferable to metal braces for people concerned about the appearance of their teeth during orthodontic treatment.

Clear aligners typically treat dental issues quickly and efficiently.

Though each case is unique, patients typically start to see results of treatment within a few months as their teeth begin to straighten and the treatment plan takes effect.

With your hard work to stay on track and excellent at-home oral hygiene, in addition to check-in visits to your dentist, you will be able to see and feel the difference in your mouth.

Do the math on how quickly you’ll need to eat and drink.

For your clear aligners to have the intended effect, you’ll need to wear them for about 22 hours per day.

That means you'll have to fit all of your eating and drinking into a two-hour time frame. While this may appear intimidating at first, you may soon notice some advantages. For example, you can put an end to mindless snacking (and the impact it can have on your waistline).

Don’t be surprised if your teeth feel loose.

When you remove your clear aligners, your teeth may feel loose because they are gradually straightening your misaligned teeth. Don't worry; as they move and realign in their new positions, this is completely normal.

You’ll level up on brushing.

Each time you take your aligners out to eat or drink, you should brush and floss them before placing them back in your mouth.

That's because food particles can get stuck between your teeth and the aligners, causing discomfort and harm to your teeth. It can also cause the aligners to turn yellow, which is unpleasant.

Make sure to properly and thoroughly clean your aligners.

You'll need to clean your aligners every time you eat or drink, just like you would your teeth. You shouldn't clean your aligners with toothpaste because it contains abrasive ingredients that can scratch them. Rather, use clear aligner cleaning crystals, denture cleaner, or Retainer Brite to clean them.

You may want to remove and place your aligners in private.

You may find it difficult to remove your aligners and replace them after eating or drinking because they fit your teeth so precisely. As a result, you might feel more at ease doing this in a restroom, at least at first.

Don’t count yourself out.

Patients who come to us asking about clear aligners often wonder whether they’d be a candidate. The only way to find out is to ask and visit your dentist for a consultation.

Clear aligners can be used to correct a variety of issues, including gapped, crowded, or crooked teeth, as well as overbite and crossbite, depending on the type you choose. We'd be happy to examine your teeth and determine whether you're a candidate for clear aligner treatment.

You may need a retainer following treatment.

After wearing the entire series of clear aligners as prescribed by your dentist, your orthodontic treatment may not be complete. After the main course of your treatment, you should wear a retainer to help keep your straight smile in place.

We’re here to support you.

Though choosing clear aligners can be difficult, we are here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have. Our dental team will be available to answer questions or offer advice. Finally, you'll have a healthier, more straight smile.