Clear aligners - The treatment process

In recent years, clear aligners have become one of the most popular solutions to fix orthodontic problems. It is because clear aligners are hardly noticeable as they are made from clear plastic. Also, the effectiveness and comfort of clear aligners are pretty high, which makes it one of the most highly preferred dental appliances to treat a malocclusion. People who wish to get clear aligners to treat their dental condition could have a few concerns about the treatment process. Let's look into the treatment procedure in detail.

Initial consultation

During the initial visit, the dentist screens the teeth and gums for oral problems and also determines the severity of the malocclusion. The type of orthodontic condition is defined, and the dentist will determine the right treatment option for you. 

Fabricating the clear plastic trays

The treatment procedure requires several sets of aligners to bring about a change in the alignment of the teeth. In order to manufacture the aligners, a digital mold is essential. Hence, the dentist takes highly precise scans and panoramic x-rays of your teeth. These impressions and x-rays are sent to the dental lab, where a 3-D image of your smile is created using this reference. Next, the dentist will make a customized treatment plan according to your dental set-up. The aligners will be fabricated within a span of a few weeks.

Using the aligners

Once the aligners are fabricated and ready for use, the dentist would give you detailed instructions on how to use them. Before wearing the aligners, you need to clean your teeth thoroughly. If not, the food particles stuck between the teeth can cause discomfort or even cavities. You can easily maintain your teeth for brushing and flossing, as they are removable. Each aligner will have to be worn for approximately two weeks before a different aligner replaces it.

Regular visits to the dentist's office

You need to visit the dentist according to the scheduled appointments to monitor the movement of your teeth. Also, you will get the next set of aligners when you visit the dentist. A huge advantage when it comes to clear aligners is that the movement of the teeth can be tracked precisely. This will help in providing effective treatment at every stage.

After completing the treatment process, you will have the smile you always desired for. In some instances, the dentist may recommend the usage of a retainer for a few days to make sure the teeth remain in their new positions.

Schedule an online appointment or call us at (614) 459-3229 to have a consultation with Dr. Peng and we’ll be happy to guide you further.