Parents of teenagers and those seeking adult orthodontics often have questions about clear aligners. After all, the technology wasn’t around or common when they were growing up—metal braces dominated the field. But clear aligners are an attractive and easy choice for a lot of teens and adults alike. We want to help you understand the clear aligner process and benefits so you can make the most informed decision as you take the journey toward a great, healthy bite and beautiful smile. Here is a clear aligner FAQ for those considering!
Clear Aligner FAQs
What is the clear aligner process?
You will visit the dentist, who will create a plan and take digital measurements. Specialized computer software will use the measurements to design a set of customized trays that will take your teeth into alignment.
How long do clear aligners take?
Typically a clear aligner plan includes around 12 sets of trays, each worn for around 2 weeks. This means the average clear aligner process takes around 6 months. (Much faster than metal braces!)
How often do I have to wear my clear aligners?
You should wear them for a minimum of 20 hours a day. (It is recommended that you wear them unless you are eating, brushing, or there is a very special occasion to remove them.)
How do I know if my teen is wearing clear aligners the right amount?
With Invisalign, compliance indicators fade with wear. This helps the dentists, parents, and teens to know that they are wearing the aligners as required for success.
Are clear aligners comfortable?
For the first few days of new trays, patients report mild discomfort. In most cases, it is described as pressure. However, they are described as comfortable, as the materials are flexible and thin, so they don’t irritate the soft tissue. Also, the customized two-week system gently moves your teeth in a very precise manner.
How do I take care of my clear aligners?
The clear aligners can be removed, brushed, and rinsed with lukewarm water.
How do I take care of my teeth while using clear aligners?
It’s important to remove the aligners while eating and brush after eating. However, this means you won’t have dietary restrictions like with metal braces. And because clear aligners can be removed, they make the process of caring for your teeth simple!
Will I be able to talk the same with clear aligners?
At first, while getting used to the aligners, you may experience a slight lisp. But because the material is thin, after a few days, speech usually returns to normal.
What are the clear aligner benefits?
This is our favorite clear aligner FAQ, as patients love the benefits. Clear aligners are comfortable, discreet, offer more dietary choices than metal braces, and they make it easy to keep good oral hygiene.
Do I still need to wear a retainer after clear aligners?
Just like with regular braces, you will need to wear a retainer after treatment is complete as instructed in order to keep your teeth from shifting.
Interested in Clear Aligners?
If your child or teen needs orthodontic work, or you are interested in adult orthodontics, we can let you know if clear aligners are a good option to straighten your teeth and get you the beautiful smile and healthy bite you deserve. Contact Rondeau and Associates to schedule a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for clear aligners!
