Clear aligners are growing to be a popular teeth-straightening treatment option. They offer benefits that other teeth straightening treatments do not. However, as with all teeth-straightening options comes the question of how long the process will actually take. Individuals who are considering their options often use the timeline of treatment as a deciding factor, and with good reason. The timeline plays a huge role in the decision-making process, which is why it is important to be informed about what a treatment entails.
Clear aligners are custom-created transparent trays that fit over the top or bottom arch of teeth (or both). The trays are removable and are changed every six to eight weeks depending on the patient's progression. They are made of plastic, thus making them relatively comfortable, unlike traditional braces.
The clear aligners treatment process varies per patient; however, generally speaking, there are a few guidelines that patients abide by. Because clear aligners are geared more towards mild to moderate issues, patients rarely need to undergo treatment for more than a year. In rare scenarios, the process may be extended past a year to accommodate final shifts. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Each patient will have a designated timeline that the general dentist outlines to start the treatment process. The severity of the crookedness, crowding, or protrusion will be used to determine how long the process may take.
Patients that are preparing to undergo clear aligner treatment should be aware of a few things. While the treatment is flexible due to the ability to remove the aligners, it also requires a certain amount of discipline. Clear aligners are only effective at correcting the teeth when worn for at least 22 hours a day. It can be very easy to take clear aligners out and forget to put them back in; however, it is essential that they are only out of the mouth for a maximum of two hours a day.
When this rule is not followed properly, treatment times are likely to last longer. This slows progress, thus drawing out the entire process, which can result in more money spent and less noticeable results. Patients are also encouraged to keep their clear aligners clean. Rinsing them with salt-water or a gentle mouthwash can be helpful in combatting bacteria build-up.
When looking to get started with clear aligners, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist so that any questions or concerns about the treatment process can be properly addressed. Additionally, the dentist can perform an evaluation to determine whether clear aligners are a suitable option. Contact us today to learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.brooklynfriendsdental.com or call Friends Family Dental & Braces at (718) 804-5230 for an appointment in our Brooklyn office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Clear Aligners in Brooklyn, NY.
Wondering what cosmetic dental services are available these days? Read on to explore some procedures and how they work together to give you the best possible smile. Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way, and now includes various cosmetic dental services for enhancing the smile's overall appearance.A beautiful smile is more important than ever in…
If your child needs dental work, a kid friendly dentist is the right professional to see. A kid friendly dentist has the knowledge and training to meet your child’s needs. The dentist will also know what types of treatments your son or daughter requires based on their condition. Various interventions should occur at different ages…
Many people look to cosmetic dental services when they want a whiter smile. Though teeth whitening from a dentist is an excellent choice for many patients, some patients get better results with other options such as dental veneers, dental bonding, or a combination of treatments. If you are considering teeth whitening and want to know…
Almost anyone who wants to improve their smile can benefit from cosmetic dental services. Today's technology allows dentists to improve teeth' shape, color, and alignment and even fix imperfections in the enamel and gumline. If there is something you want to change about your teeth, chances are you can. Discover the potential of cosmetic dentistry…
*In case of a life threatening emergency, immediately call 911.
**For any medical procedure, patients respond to treatment differently, hence each patient’s results may vary.
***Information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this site is for general information purposes only..
****By using this website and sending us your information, you are giving us permission to contact you by electronic and non-electronic means. We also track the conversions and collect user data to improve marketing.
*****If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact us.