Clear aligners are popular orthodontic appliances that straighten teeth gradually over time. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are made from smooth plastic and are removable, allowing patients to brush and floss normally. Clear aligners are virtually invisible, so most people will not notice you are wearing them.
The most significant benefit of wearing clear aligners is that they can be removed for eating, cleaning your teeth, and for special occasions. This is especially useful for patients with sensitive teeth or who play sports. Clear aligners are also ideal for older teenagers and adults who want to improve their smiles discreetly.
The first step is to take impressions of your teeth, so the aligners can be custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly. Then, throughout the course of the treatment, you will switch out the aligners every two weeks as our dentist or team instructed. Each set of aligners applies gentle force to gradually move your teeth into place. You will wear your aligners for at least 22 hours daily for the best results.
Over time, the aligners will shift your teeth into the proper alignment, leaving you with a beautifully straight smile. Typically, treatment lasts about one year, but you can finish it earlier, depending on your case. The clear aligners system is an excellent alternative to traditional braces because it is discreet and easy to use. It also allows you to remove your aligners to eat, brush, and floss regularly, so taking care of your teeth during treatment is easy.
Compared to traditional braces, clear aligners are more comfortable, less noticeable, and easy to remove for routine oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing. Patients can also remove the appliance before eating, improving their comfort throughout the treatment. The smooth plastic surface makes the clear aligners easy on the gums and cheeks; patients don’t need to worry about sharp metal parts irritating their mouths like they would with traditional braces.
Clear aligners are also more discreet and aesthetically pleasing. They do not affect the appearance of your smile as significantly as braces do since they are virtually invisible when worn over the teeth. Traditional braces can also cause food to get stuck in the brackets, but clear aligners can be removed when eating.
If you want to learn more about how clear aligner treatment can help you reach your smile goals, visit Town Center Dental at 301 E Cook St, Ste F, Santa Maria, CA 93454, or call (805) 925-2652.
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