The process for straightening the teeth with aligners differs from traditional orthodontic treatment. The movement of the teeth is planned virtually from start to finish, and once our team approves, the aligner manufacturer creates a series of aligners using CAD/CAM technology.
Each aligner repositions the teeth by fractions of a millimeter. Patients wear aligners for a period of one to two weeks for safe, stable tooth movement. Over time, the tiny increments of movement add up to the full repositioning of the teeth. The aligners are removable by the patient, which is both an advantage and a disadvantage. It provides the advantages of making it easy to effectively clean the teeth and giving the patient the option to remove them for special occasions (i.e. weddings, photo shoots, speeches). The disadvantage in their removability is that the responsibility for proper tooth movement lies with the patient. Put simply, if you do not wear them for the prescribed time, you will not move the teeth.
Not every patient is a candidate for orthodontic treatment with clear aligners. We will assess your situation and inform you of your treatment options. Our goal is for every patient to achieve his or her smile goals while maintaining a healthy mouth.
Young people in need of aligners will likely feel nervous, excited, confused, or indifferent. Committing to orthodontic treatment can be overwhelming for many kids, thatโs why itโs important for parents to be there for support and to help our kids adjust.
Maintaining proper brushing and flossing techniques when wearing aligners or clear aligners is crucial. Without effective oral hygiene, the foods you eat will get caught in your teeth or appliances and lead to plaque buildup that can cause staining, cavities, or gingivitis and decalcification. Also be sure to ask about our Orthodontic Hygiene Program to ensure youโre getting regular professional cleanings and feedback on your brushing and flossing technique.
To keep your oral health in good condition while wearing aligners, here are some at-home tips we recommend:
Our team has delivered outstanding orthodontic care in North Austin for over 30 years. We are committed to providing our community with safe, gentle, high-quality orthodontic care.
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your dental care, we are more than happy to discuss how you can achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.
As a top orthodontist in North Austin, we have helped hundreds of families achieve their oral health goals and are eager to help you and your family do the same.
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