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Have questions about clear aligner treatment? You’ve come to the right place! Our cosmetic dentist in South Bend, IN, would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have during your next appointment.
In the meantime, please feel free to check out our FAQ page on clear aligner treatment.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
Clear aligners are translucent trays that fit snugly over your teeth. They exert constant but gentle pressure, which moves your teeth little by little into optimal alignment. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners are designed to be discreet.
Your treatment plan will involve the use of several aligners. However, you won’t move onto the next step of your treatment plan until you’re ready to wear the next set of aligners. For this reason, it’s important that you wear your aligners as directed by our cosmetic dentist. Otherwise, your teeth won’t move according to schedule.
What are the Benefits of Clear Aligners?
The main benefits of dental aligners are that they’re clear and discreet. This means that most people won’t even realize that you’re wearing aligners unless you tell them. Whether you’re in the classroom or the office, clear aligners can help you feel confident during orthodontic treatment.
Another advantage of clear aligners is that they’re removable, which allows you to continue eating your favorite foods without restriction. If you decide on clear aligners for your smile, your oral hygiene routine will also remain relatively unchanged. Simply remove your aligners to brush, floss, and swish fluoride mouthwash.
Am I a Candidate for Clear Aligners?
You may be a candidate for clear aligner treatment if you have crooked and/or crowded teeth. Clear aligners may also be used to correct some bite issues, but it’s important to remember that each patient is different.
Candidates for clear aligners must have a lot of self-discipline to wear their aligners 20 to 22 hours per day. For this reason, we recommend clear orthodontic aligners for teenagers and adults—not young children.
Related: Restore Your Confidence with Clear Aligners →
What Can I Eat During Clear Aligner Treatment?
Anything you want! One of the is that you’re able to enjoy an unrestricted diet. This is a different experience from what you would have with traditional metal braces.
People with metal braces have to avoid foods that are sticky and/or hard to chew. Otherwise, they risk damaging their metal wires and brackets. Since clear aligners are removable, you’ll be able to eat whatever you want. However, we recommend that you always brush your teeth after eating to avoid staining your aligners.
While you’re eating, be sure to store your aligners in the case we give you. The case will protect your aligners from being damaged or thrown away by accident. Never place your clear aligners on a napkin!
How Do I Clean My Aligners?
You’ll want to make sure you every night to avoid plaque buildup. To do this, you’ll first want to rinse your aligners, Next, brush your aligners with a dedicated soft-bristled toothbrush and liquid soap that’s clear and gentle. Rinse away the soap under running water and store your aligners in their case when they’re not in use.
Will I Need to Wear a Retainer After Treatment?
Yes, you’ll need to wear a retainer after clear aligner treatment. This is to ensure that you don’t lose the progress you’ve gained by wearing your orthodontic aligners. Once your treatment is complete, Dr. Gasko will explain how often you’ll need to wear your retainer to maintain your new beautiful smile.
Book a Consultation for Clear Aligners
Dr. Michael Gasko is a cosmetic dentist in South Bend, IN, who’s accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment and learn if you’re a candidate for clear aligner treatment, please call Select Dental Associates at (574) 232-8888. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.
