It is essential to know all of the facts about clear aligners before making a decision. That's why the Apple Dental Care dentists in Edmonton are sharing the information you need to know when deciding if clear aligners are right for you.
What should I know about clear aligners?
Just like braces clear aligners work to straighten your teeth only they aren't made of metal and wires. Instead clear aligners are removable orthodontic appliances made from transparent plastic that makes them look nearly 'invisible' when being worn.
We love helping our patients make informed choices. That's why before you make your decision our dental team wants to talk to you about some of the important factors you have to consider before deciding on a clear aligner.
Below are some things you should know about clear aligners.
Clear aligners are a discreet option many patients appreciate.
Your clear aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth, gradually moving them into their proper positions over a period of time, as prescribed by your dentist.
Clear aligners are virtually invisible on your teeth to the casual observer. Which might make this option more preferable for people who are concerned with how their teeth will look when having 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.
Calculate 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 all your eating and drinking will need to fit within an approximately two-hour time slot. While this may seem daunting at first, you may soon see some side benefits. For instance, you can say goodbye to mindless snacking (and the impact it can have on your waistline).
Don’t be shocked if your teeth feel loose.
Because your clear aligners will be gradually straightening your misaligned teeth, your teeth may feel loose when you take your aligners out. Don’t worry - we can assure you this is normal as they move and realign in their new positions.
You’ll level up on brushing.
Each time you take your aligners out to eat or drink, you should brush and floss before placing them back in your mouth.
That’s because food particles can become trapped between your teeth and the aligners, which would be uncomfortable – and bad for your teeth. It can also result in the aligners turning yellow – yuck.
Be sure to clean your aligners properly and thoroughly.
Just like your teeth need to be cleaned each time you eat or drink, you’ll need to clean your aligners as well. You shouldn’t use toothpaste to clean them, as it contains abrasive ingredients that can scratch your aligners. Instead, clean them with clear aligner cleaning crystals, denture cleaner, or Retainer Brite.
You may want to remove and place your aligners in private.
Because your aligners fit your teeth so precisely, you may find it challenging to take them out and put them back in again after you are done eating or drinking. For this reason, you might be more comfortable doing this in a restroom, especially in the beginning.
Don’t count yourself out.
Patients that come to us asking about clear aligners often wonder if there would be a good candidate. The only way to you can find out is by booking a consultation with your dentist.
Depending on which clear aligners you’re considering, they can be used to fix a range of issues including gapped, crowded or crooked teeth, crossbite and overbite. Our dentists at Apple Dental Care would be happy to examine your smile and help you find out if you’re a candidate for treatment with clear aligners.
You may need a retainer following treatment.
Your orthodontic treatment may not be quite finished after your wear the entire series of clear aligners as prescribed by your dentist. Wearing a retainer after the main course of your treatment will help to ensure your straight smile stays in its place.
We’re here to support you.
Though choosing clear aligners may come with its challenges, we’re here to support you 100% through any questions or concerns you may have. You’ll have our dental team just a phone call away to provide answers or advice. And in the end – you’ll have a healthier, straighter smile.