Crooked teeth and a bad bite can cause several problems to your mouth, such as:
- Decay
- Bone loss
- Periodontal (aka gum) disease
- Abnormal tooth wear
- Jaw pain
- Bad esthetics
Clear aligner therapy techniques and appliances can help fix the above problems by straightening your teeth without wires and brackets. They can do a lot of the things traditional orthodontics (braces) can do, but more discreetly. Many tooth movements are possible, and many types of malocclusions can be improved with clear aligner therapy. However, some cases are still better suited for traditional braces or a combination of the two techniques.
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners are a series of clear dental appliances (like nightguards) that are formed to the shape of your teeth. They gradually improve the appearance and function of your teeth by applying consistent pressure to your teeth. This constant pressure causes the body to break down bone on one side of a tooth and to build up a new bone on the other side. This back and forth of bone breakdown and remodeling is what tooth movement is all about.
How long do I have to wear them in a day?
The first few days of clear aligner therapy are important because that is when the maximum pressure is applied on the teeth, causing movement. When the aligners are not worn properly, the movement stops. Therefore it is important to wear aligners at least 20-22 hours a day.
During your examination, we can determine the best possible approach for correcting your teeth and if clear aligner therapy is right for you. You can achieve the powerful smile you desire and gain good dental health in the process.
Clear aligners are a series of custom-fitted plastic trays that apply consistent pressure to gradually straighten your teeth. The aligners are worn for about 20-22 hours daily, and each set is replaced every 1-2 weeks as part of your treatment plan.
For best results, you should wear your clear aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day. Missing hours can slow progress and prolong treatment.
Clear aligners can correct many common tooth alignment issues like crowding and spacing, though traditional braces may be preferable for complex bite issues. Some cases still require braces or a hybrid approach.
We use 3D intraoral scanners to capture digital impressions-no gooey molds required. These precise scans help us create virtual models and aligner simulations.
Clear aligner therapy can address mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite irregularities such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Severe jaw misalignment may still require braces.
Once your treatment is complete, a retainer will be provided to maintain your new smile and prevent shifting. Long-term retention is essential.
Some mild pressure or sensitivity is normal when starting a new set of aligners-it indicates tooth movement. This usually resolves in a few days.
Treatment duration varies by case complexity, but most patients complete their alignment in about 12-18 months, with some seeing changes in as little as 6 months.