What To Expect During Clear Aligner Treatment
If you have teeth that need to be aligned by your Washington Heights dental clinic, but you do not prefer metal braces, you will be happy to know that there is a popular alternative available with clear aligners!
Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that use a series of custom-made, transparent plastic trays that mold to your teeth and gradually move and straighten them.
Clear aligners are invisible and removable. They allow for easier maintenance of oral hygiene and the ability to eat a wider variety of foods. Not only that, but they can also offer greater comfort during the treatment process as compared to traditional braces.
Considerations When Getting Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a great option when it comes to teeth straightening, but there are several things your Washington Heights dentist may tell you to consider before deciding that they are the right option for you. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Speaking May Be Difficult For a Time
While clear aligners are designed to be comfortable, you may have difficulty with speech for a short period of time. This is because your tongue and lips need to adjust to the presence of the aligners.
You may experience a slight lisp or find it challenging to pronounce certain sounds until your mouth adjusts. However, with practice and consistent wear, most people overcome these challenges within a few days to a couple of weeks, and their speech returns to normal.
Aligners Must Be Removed For Meals
Clear aligners require meticulous care and maintenance to ensure their effectiveness. One crucial step of care is to remove them before eating any meals. This goes for eating or drinking anything besides water.
This precautionary measure prevents food particles from getting trapped between the aligners and your teeth which causes plaque buildup, bad breath, and potential dental issues. It also prevents staining and discoloration of the aligners themselves, maintaining their aesthetic appeal and transparency.
Hygiene Is Important To Maintain Aligners
Maintaining excellent hygiene is paramount when it comes to clear aligners, as it directly impacts the overall effectiveness and condition of your Washington Heights dental clinic treatment. Proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing after meals, ensures that no food particles or debris remain trapped between your teeth and the aligners.
Additionally, it is crucial to clean the aligners themselves using a recommended cleaning solution or by gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush to remove any residue. Maintaining hygiene helps keep your aligners transparent, discreet and also contributes to the overall health of your teeth and gums.
Treatment May Take Longer Than Expected
While clear aligners have gained popularity, it’s important to understand that the duration of treatment may vary and occasionally take longer than you may initially anticipate.
Some situations that may cause a longer treatment time are:
- Complexity of your case
- Severe misalignments or complicated bite issues
- Each individual’s compliance
- Unforeseen changes in the treatment plan such as the need for mid-course corrections or refinement aligners.
While it can be frustrating for treatment to take longer than expected, your Washington Heights Dentist’s ultimate goal is to achieve optimal results and a beautiful, healthy smile, making the extra time invested worthwhile!
Aligners Must Be Consistently Worn
Unlike traditional braces, which are fixed in place, clear aligners can be easily removed. However, to achieve the desired results, you should wear them for the recommended amount of time each day, typically around 20 to 22 hours.
Consistency in wearing the aligners ensures that your teeth are gradually moved into their proper positions. By being diligent and committed to wearing the aligners as instructed by your dentist, you can be sure your treatment is effective.
Possible Discomfort With New Aligners
When it comes to clear aligners, it is important to note that you may experience temporary discomfort that lasts a few days during your treatment. This discomfort is normal and typically arises when transitioning to a new set of aligners, which are designed to gently shift your teeth.
Be sure to communicate with your Washington Heights dentist so they can help address any of your concerns and ensure a comfortable and successful aligner journey.
Treatment Does Not End After Aligners
Completing your treatment with clear aligners does not mark the end of your journey. While your teeth may be aligned into their desired positions, additional steps are often necessary to maintain your results.
Following the aligner treatment, you may need the use of retainers, which help to stabilize your teeth in their new positions and prevent them from shifting back. Retainers should be worn as instructed by your Washington Heights dentist to ensure long-term success.
In addition to the retainer, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital to monitor your overall oral health and maintain the alignment of your teeth. By understanding that treatment extends beyond the use of clear aligners and embracing the post-treatment recommendations, you can enjoy a lasting and beautiful smile for years to come.
Contact Our Leading Washington Heights Dentist For More Help!
If you need your teeth aligned and want to try out clear aligners, contact our skilled dentists at Esthetix Dental Spa where we can address your questions and give you the care you need! Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Esthetix Dentist, NYC’s Dental Implant & Cosmetic Specialist
285 Fort Washington Ave,
New York, NY 10032
Phone: (212) 795-9675
Website: http://esthetixdentalspa.com/