Using clear aligners to straighten the smile
Straightening teeth may be done for oral health or aesthetic purposes—and sometimes both! At Patel and Dornhecker Dentistry, patients in and around Fairfield Township, Cincinnati, or Bridgetown, Ohio, have the opportunity to learn about alternative options to traditional braces, including our clear aligner therapy!
What is clear aligner therapy?
The team at our office offers two specific brands of clear aligner therapy for teeth realignment: Invisalign and SureSmile. Invisalign and SureSmile use clear plastic aligner trays that are custom-made to fit over your teeth and gradually shift them into a better-aligned position. These removable aligners make it easier to eat, brush, and floss than traditional braces.
What happens during the process of realigning the smile using clear aligners?
The process begins with an initial consultation, during which the dentist assesses your teeth and determines if clear aligner therapy is right for you. If you are a good candidate, Drs. Jesal A. Patel and Shawn Dornhecker take digital impressions of your teeth using advanced technology. These images will be used to create a 3D model of your mouth that allows the dentist to map out the treatment plan.
During your treatment, you wear a series of trays specifically designed for your teeth. Each tray is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. This gradual movement of your teeth allows the aligners to effectively shift them into their desired position.
How often do I have to visit the dentist during my treatment?
Throughout the process, you will have regular check-ups with our dentists at Patel and Dornhecker Dentistry to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. In most cases, treatment takes anywhere from six months to sometimes two years, depending on the severity of misalignment.
What are the benefits of clear aligner therapy?
Appearance. Clear aligners offer patients a more discreet option for realigning teeth than traditional braces, which use metal brackets and wires. The aligner trays are virtually invisible when worn, making it difficult for others to notice that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Comfort. The aligner trays are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, custom-made to fit your natural teeth comfortably. Unlike metal brackets and wires, clear aligners do not have sharp edges that irritate your mouth and gums.
Convenience. Since these aligners are removable, you can easily remove them when eating, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene during treatment. They can also be removed for special occasions or important events where you want to look your best without having to worry about traditional braces being visible.
Overall dental health. Tooth decay (cavities), gum disease, uneven tooth wear, and difficulty cleaning are just a few of the dental problems resulting from crooked or misaligned teeth.
Are clear aligners right for me?
If you are interested in learning more about clear aligner therapy or finding out if you are a good candidate for this treatment, we invite you to call one of our two office locations serving Cincinnati, Fairfield Township, and Bridgetown, Ohio. To schedule your appointment in our Fairfield office, call (513) 815-3166.