A Dentist Explains the Clear Aligners Process

Clear aligners give you a discreet way to fix poor teeth alignment. It involves using a series of aligner trays to straighten the patient's teeth over a certain length of time. Many people never got the orthodontic treatments they needed when metal braces were the norm. Thanks to clear aligners, it is now possible to treat a variety of teeth alignment-related dental issues like crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites and crossbites.

So, are you ready to start the journey toward straighter teeth with invisible aligners? This article will explore what goes on during the process

The process of getting clear aligners

Here are the steps that patients should expect when starting treatments with clear braces:

1. Consultation

As is the case with most dental procedures, the process of getting clear aligners starts with a consultation with a dentist. The dentist will examine the patient's teeth and gums to determine the type of orthodontic issue that they are dealing with and to figure out the cause of their problem.

Properly diagnosing a patient's condition allows the dentist to determine what works best for them. Teeth alignment problems that are caused by the location of the patient's teeth can be treated with clear aligners, but those that are caused by the position of the person's jaw typically require other options, like metal braces.

2. Impressions are taken

Once the dentist and patient both agree that clear braces are the way to go, the oral professional will craft a tailor-made treatment plan for the patient. An impression of the patient's teeth might be taken, or the dentist might use digital imaging to create a 3D model.

The information collected by the dentist is sent to a lab, where dental technicians will make the patient's customized aligner trays. The dentist will show the patient projections of what their teeth will look like as the aligners begin to move them toward a better alignment and give an estimate of how long the patient's treatment will last. The smile preview gives the patient all the information they need to determine if clear aligners are right for them.

3. Using the aligners

Once the aligner trays are ready, usually about two weeks, the patient will return for a second appointment. The dentist will teach them how to wear, remove and clean their oral appliance. The patient will be instructed to wear their aligner for at least 20 hours daily, and a tracking app might be recommended.

During their treatment, the patient will check in with the dentist every six weeks so their progress can be monitored.

Straighten your teeth discreetly

Clear aligners can straighten your smile without taking away how it looks. Call or visit our St. George clinic to learn more about these oral appliances and others that can be used to straighten your smile.

Request an appointment here: https://www.aboutdentalcare.com or call About Dental Care at (435) 359-0147 for an appointment in our St. George office.

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