Clear aligners have rapidly become a popular solution for patients seeking effective and discreet ways to straighten their teeth. Unlike traditional braces, clear ones are invisible and removable, making it easier for patients to carry out their daily activities without any obstacles caused by metal braces. As a busy professional living in Rocklin or as a parent who needs to guide your teen through orthodontic treatment, these aligners can be considered a solution for your needs.
If you already use these aligners or are planning to get them, it is very important for you to understand how to properly take care of them to making the most out of your treatment. With these few tips and tricks in mind, you will smoothly ensure your clear aligner treatment is on track and provides you with the best results. This guide will walk you through how to properly live with invisible aligners.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are bespoke devices consisting of a series of trays that move teeth from their current position to the desired position. The advantages of these aligners over conventional metal braces are that they are invisible. While conventional metal braces are visible when worn, invisible aligners are preferably used by teens and adults who are concerned about the aesthetic appearance of their teeth while using metal braces. The material used for invisible aligners is smooth plastic.
Also, one of the most advantageous aspects about aligners is that you can remove them to eat, drink, and clean your teeth. This is a great benefit for people who would have had to deal with restrictions on oral hygiene and diet if it were not for this product.
Tips for a Successful Treatment
When you’re starting on your journey with clear aligners in Rocklin, consider these tips and tricks that will help you achieve the best outcome.
1. Adhere to Recommended Wear Times
When using the invisible aligners, it is important to ensure that they fit the following requirements. They should be worn at least 20 to 22 hours a day. Although it seems like a long time, the longer you wear them, the faster the treatment progresses. They should be removed while consuming food, having drinks, or brushing teeth. In case the aligners are not worn for a long period of time, the treatment becomes slower, resulting in less favorable outcomes.
2. Keep Your Aligners Clean
It is also critical to keep your aligners clean to make sure that they remain clear during the whole treatment period. You are supposed to clean the aligners with lukewarm water and a toothbrush. You should avoid cleaning them with hot water since it may damage the plastic.
It is also important that you brush your teeth before placing the aligners on each time. This will help prevent food and bacteria from getting stuck in the space between the aligners and the teeth, which can result in tooth decay or bad breath.
3. Adjust to Eating with Clear Aligners
Although these aligners have the benefit of being removable, it should be noted that it’s advisable to take them out before eating any kind of food. If eaten with the braces, there could be stains and discomfort as well as damage. There are chances that foods can get trapped inside. Removing the aligners each time one wishes to eat and refitting them when the task is completed can be one of the hardest aspects of invisible aligners to adjust to. In this regard, having a small container to hold the aligners when one leaves the house can help them to remain clean when not being used.
4. Be Prepared for the Discomfort
Just like all orthodontic appliances, these aligners do have the possibility of causing minor pain, particularly after you have changed to the next aligner. This is because the aligners are moving your teeth into position. If you are feeling pain and/or discomfort, you should try to massage your gums gently and/or take over-the-counter pain medications.
This discomfort passes after a couple of days when you begin using the new tray of aligners. In the meantime, you can avoid hard or sticky foods that might cause the pain to worsen. Do not worry: the pain in your mouth indicates that the aligners are working.
5. Stay Current with Check-Ups
Though clear aligners won’t necessitate as many visits to the dentist as with traditional braces, it is essential to visit your dentist regularly. This is because your cosmetic dentist shall monitor your process, ensuring that your invisible aligners are well-fitted. This is important since it gives you the opportunity to discuss any issues that you may have.
In Rocklin, our dental community is very active and accessible. If you are coming to us as a result of hiking at Folsom Lake, or even if you are just passing through Rocklin, we are here to help you evaluate whether everything is on track for you and invisible aligners.
6. Be Patient and Have Faith in Process
Orthodontic procedures involve several weeks or even months. In the same way, the time required for your aligners to take effect may take several weeks. You will need to keep wearing the aligners at the end of every few weeks. Eventually, your teeth will move to the correct positions.
As a final reminder, it is important to keep in mind the end goal of a perfectly straight and aligned smile. With patience and consistency, you will be enjoying your dream smile in no time!
The Next Step to Boost Your Smile Confidence
Life with aligners means being consistent, careful, and patient. Also, being a part of the Rocklin family means being part of a group that can provide access to local assistance that can make your life with a invisible aligner even simpler. With these tips and your dedication to your treatment, you can have a pleasant life with your invisible aligner.
Ready to move to the next step? Schedule an appointment with us today to begin with your clear aligners process in Rocklin. We look forward to helping make your smile shine!
FAQs
- How often do I need to change my clear aligners?
You will typically change to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, depending on your treatment plan. Your cosmetic dentist will provide specific guidance on when to switch to the next set based on your progress.
- Can I drink coffee with clear aligners?
It’s best to avoid drinking coffee or any other staining beverages while wearing your clear aligners. If you do drink coffee, be sure to remove your aligners and brush your teeth before putting them back in.
- What happens if I forget to wear my aligners?
If you forget to wear your aligners for an extended period, contact your cosmetic dentist. Depending on how long you’ve been without them, they may recommend either continuing with your current set or moving to the next set of aligners.
- Will clear aligners hurt?
Clear aligners may cause some discomfort, especially when switching to a new set. This is normal and temporary. Any pain or discomfort should subside within a few days.
- How long will my treatment last with clear aligners?
The length of treatment varies depending on your unique needs. Most clear aligner treatments take anywhere from 6 months to 18 months, but your cosmetic dentist will provide a more accurate timeline based on your goals.
