Straighten Your Smile, Without Compromise.
Clear aligners are an excellent treatment option for adult and teen patients who need mild to moderate orthodontic treatment. Adults can avoid the stigma of having metal braces, while teens can avoid the embarrassment. Dr. Cappy Sinclair and Dr. Mark Reichley help patients gently reposition their teeth and straighten their smiles with clear aligners in Virginia Beach, VA.
Our dentists can use clear aligners to treat common orthodontic concerns, including an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. In addition, they can treat gaps between teeth or crooked teeth. The aligners consist of clear plastic that is durable and transparent. Clear aligners are virtually invisible, thanks to unique, ultra-thin plastic material. They are also highly flexible, making them more comfortable than other systems, and the fact that they are removable is a significant benefit for most patients considering treatment.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are virtually invisible, almost no one will be able to tell you are wearing clear aligners. In addition to the esthetic and comfort advantages, clear aligners offer a number of significant clinical benefits including:
- Improved gum and tooth health during treatment because of better oral hygiene.
- No metal allergies due to brackets and wires.
- More predictable treatment planning.
- Gently reposition your teeth without causing damage to tooth enamel, gum tissue, or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
- Custom aligners tailored to fit your teeth precisely, for reduced irritation and fewer scratches.
Traditional braces have been the conventional treatment, but there are many disadvantages to using them when compared to clear aligners. According to research, clear braces may be better for your dental hygiene during treatment compared to traditional metal braces.
Since clear aligners are removable, you can brush and floss teeth normally. By contrast, traditional metal braces can be difficult to care for and often trap food particles between the braces and teeth. Removable aligners allow you to enjoy the food and drink you like without special restrictions.
Clear Aligners Process in Virginia Beach
Clear aligners are an increasingly popular orthodontic treatment that a dentist can use to straighten teeth and correct misalignment. The process of using clear aligners is simple, safe, and effective.
It begins with a consultation to determine if you’re a good candidate for the treatment. After that, we will take impressions of your teeth and jaw using 3D imaging and send them off to our dental lab. There, they will create the aligners using the digital model of your mouth. We can also use this model to show you a 3D image of what your future smile will look like!
Once the aligners arrive at our office, we will give you instructions on how to wear them for maximum effectiveness. Your first set of aligners will begin to reposition your teeth slowly.
How often do I need to replace each set of aligners?
You will need to replace them with a new set about every two weeks to shift your teeth and jaw into placement gradually.
How often should I wear my aligners?
Your should wear your clear aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day. This allows you to remove them to eat and continue a normal oral hygiene routine.
How long is treatment with clear aligners?
The length of your treatment and the number of aligners you will require will depend on the severity of your dental concerns and your cosmetic goals. Most patients will complete treatment in 6 – 12 months.
Taking Care of Your Clear Aligners
Taking care of your clear aligners is an important part of the orthodontic process. Properly caring for your aligners will ensure that they remain in good condition and help you achieve the desired results.
It is important to make sure that you keep them clean in order to avoid staining and bad breath. Rinse them with cold water before and after every use. Do not use hot water because it can warp and melt your aligners.
Do not soak your aligners in mouthwash or any other liquid. The acidity of the mouthwash may cause a reaction in the material and can warp the aligner. Be careful when eating or drinking anything, as you don’t want to accidentally bite down on your tongue while wearing them. Be sure to remove them before every meal and rinse your mouth before putting them back on.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation Today
If you’re considering clear aligners near Chesapeake, Norfolk, or the Virginia Beach area, call Coastal Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at 757-656-6368 today. You can also request an appointment online. We will do a comprehensive analysis to determine if clear braces are the best course of action for you.