Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment used for straightening teeth and correcting misalignment. As an alternative to traditional metal and wire braces, clear aligners are much less visible, more comfortable, and can take less time to achieve the desired result, making them an attractive modern orthodontic treatment particularly for adults.
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Made from BPA-free plastics, clear aligners are custom-created for each patient’s teeth. Clear aligners are successfully able to treat overcrowding of teeth, gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, open bite, and crossbite.
The Clear Aligners Process
Consultation
The process begins with a consultation with your dentist to determine whether clear aligners are the right solution for your case.
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Because Townsley Family Dentistry provides comprehensive dental care for the entire family, patients do not need a referral to an orthodontist for clear aligners. Dr. Richardson and Dr. Townsley will perform a consultation in our Foley, AL, dental office to help keep your dental visits as convenient as possible.
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After an examination, x-rays, photographs, and a 3-D model of your teeth, the dentist will establish a custom treatment plan. You will then receive a clear idea of how long your treatment will take and how it will help you meet your goals for your smile.
Creation of Aligner Trays
Clear aligner trays are created in the lab and customized according to the model taken during the consultation. Once ready, the trays can be picked up at our office when the dentist may add some small, clear attachments to your teeth to be sure the trays stay in place on the teeth.
Wearing the Aligners & Check-ups
Once treatment begins, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled after several weeks so Dr. Townsley or Dr. Richardson can observe the movement and fit after some time has passed. Appointments will be much less frequent for the duration of treatment, and soon, you will begin to notice your teeth are becoming more aligned as you progress through the different aligner trays.
Things to Consider
Advantages of Clear Aligners
A big benefit of clear aligners is the relative invisibility. Most people are initially attracted by this advantage. However, other benefits are causing many people to choose this treatment over traditional metal braces.
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COMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE - Clear aligners are a more comfortable experience for most patients than braces. The smooth, plastic trays never poke or scrape the mouth, as can happen with braces, and many people experience less discomfort from the moving of their teeth.
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Another benefit of clear aligners over traditional metal braces is the dental hygiene. Although patients still need to use extra care in keeping teeth clean, it is much easier to do so with clear aligners because the trays are easily removable.
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Patients will be happy to learn that there are no diet restrictions for clear aligner treatment. The aligners should be removed for eating and drinking anything besides water, but there is nothing off-limits as far as the type of food you may eat.
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SHORTER TREATMENT PERIOD - Lastly, clear aligners typically require a shorter treatment period and fewer visits throughout the process than traditional braces, especially when worn as instructed.
Are Clear Aligners Right for Everyone?
Clear aligners are a preferable orthodontic solution for patients of virtually any age. Clear aligners can effectively treat overbite, gaps, and tooth rotation, with less hassle and in less time than traditional braces.
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Instances when clear aligners may not be the most suitable treatment option include some severe cases, those who need teeth raised or lowered, have pegged teeth, or have had certain previous dental work.
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Age and ability to independently maintain the treatment guidelines are also important factors to consider when talking with your dentist about orthodontic treatments. Because clear aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours daily, younger patients may not be suitable candidates for clear aligners.
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Oral and periodontal health are also important considerations before deciding on clear aligners. Those considering the use of clear aligners should begin the process from a place of good oral health and be sure to learn how to care for their teeth and keep aligners in good condition before starting treatment.
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If you are looking for clear aligners in Foley, AL, call Townsley Family Dentistry today. Book an appointment with Dr. Townsley or Dr. Richardson to learn more about how modern orthodontics can transform your smile and restore your confidence!