Aug
Everyone wants to have a beautiful smile, and a big part of that is teeth that are straight. In the past, people with crooked teeth only had the option of metal braces with uncomfortable brackets. However, today’s orthodontics have options such as SureSmile clear teeth aligners patients can use to straighten their teeth discreetly and comfortably.
Patients with severe malocclusion may need braces, and the idea of them intimidates some people. Even though braces are effective for treating and shaping common oral health issues, clear aligners are an excellent option for many cases of malocclusion. SureSmile clear aligners are ultra-thin and transparent, so most people won’t notice you’re wearing them unless they’re near you.
While clear aligners were designed to solve the problem of crooked teeth, they can do much more than that. Clear aligners can also be useful for fixing the following dental issues:
With metal braces, people have to avoid foods like corn on the cob, whole apples, nuts, sticky candy, and even pretzels and chips. However, SureSmile clear aligners are removable, so you can remove them to eat, then rinse your mouth out and put them back in.
Your dentist or orthodontist takes a 3D scan of your teeth and uses putty to create a mold of your teeth and mouth. The molds are then sent to a laboratory, where trained technicians custom-create aligners for you.
While clear aligners are removable, you should always wear your aligners unless you’re eating or brushing your teeth. Orthodontic and Biomechanical researchers have confirmed that aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours daily. Wearing your aligners consistently ensures that your gums and bones have the time they need to adjust and no unnecessary tipping movement happens.
How long do you need to use clear aligners? It depends on your unique situation. Clear aligners aren’t a quick fix. As with metal braces, straightening your teeth with clear aligners takes time. Once you receive your first set of aligners, you’ll wear them for about 14 days. Every couple of weeks, you will get a new set. The entire clear aligner process will last between 6 and 18 months.
When you first get your clear aligners, they may feel tight for as long as 48 hours. This is because the aligners are working to move your teeth to their new positions. However, the discomfort will be alleviated, and you will quickly adjust to the aligners.
Are you ready for a gorgeous, straight smile? Dr. Joon Han and the team at Irvington Dental in Streamwood, Illinois, are here to help you achieve that. Call today at (331) 245-2969 to schedule your consultation.