Clear Aligners
Salem, OR
Clear Aligners provided by Dr. Amborn in Salem, OR at Amborn Orthodontics
| • | Clear Aligners
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| • | Why Clear Aligners? |
| • | Aligners vs. Braces |
| • | Damon Clear Braces |
| • | Are Aligners for Everyone? |
It might seem like these people are stuck between a rock and a hard place—it is one or the other, right? Braces are traditionally how crooked teeth are fixed. However, metal braces can lead to self-consciousness, especially for adults. If you are one of these people, you are in luck. Now, you can get the smile you have always wanted without spending months in braces, thanks to clear aligners. Amborn Orthodontics can provide you with an alternative to traditional braces.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners completely changed the world of orthodontics when they were introduced. Before aligners, there had been attempts at creating invisible braces, but they tended to fall short. Amborn Orthodontics, however, managed to do everything previous options had fallen short on—and more.
Using clear, plastic aligners instead of obvious, metal braces, we are able to move teeth into place without advertising your treatment to the world. While we are sure you are thankful for everything orthodontic treatment can do for you, you might not want to be a walking billboard for it. The creators of clear aligners understood this and gave the world the first truly invisible teeth straightening system.
How do they work?
Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional braces. Instead of metal brackets and wires, clear aligners are made from a strong, clear plastic, made from molds of your mouth. For many patients, a series of aligners are required to achieve the desired results. Your aligners are made specifically for you from molds that we take of your mouth. Each new aligner makes gradual adjustments to correct your teeth. They use gentle pressure to gradually shift your teeth where they need to go, whether it’s horizontal, vertical or even rotated.
Clear aligners are removable, but they should be worn for at least 20 hours a day to be effective. For most patients, each aligner is worn for three weeks before the next one is given. The exact length of your treatment depends on the severity of your misalignment.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
There are numerous benefits to clear aligners. First, they are practically invisible. Unlike traditional metal braces, which can impact your smile, no one will be able to notice your clear aligners. This can go a long way in helping to improve your confidence as your smile improves.
An added benefit of clear aligners is that they are removable. You can take them out to eat, as well as brush your teeth. Traditional braces limit what you can eat, and can make eating a bit more of a challenge. With the ability to remove the clear aligners, these limitations are removed. Cleaning your teeth with braces is also a challenge, as you try to navigate around brackets and between the wires. This complication, too, is eliminated with clear aligners.
Another problem with traditional braces? They aren't the most comfortable things to live with. The wires tend to poke you and the appliance can cause soreness of the tissues of the mouth. Clear aligners are made from smooth plastic. This means that there is nothing to cause pain or irritation. The metal brackets of traditional brackets are notorious for rubbing the sensitive tissues within your mouth and causing irritation. Moreover, archwires can break, poking your cheeks. With clear aligners, the irritation to your oral tissues is significantly lessened.
Another benefit to clear aligners is that they can help to prevent tooth wear as a result of grinding. This saves the enamel of your teeth and lessens your risk of developing tooth decay, damage, or even infection.
Are you a candidate for clear aligners?
While clear aligners are a wonderful choice for many orthodontic patients, they are not designed for everyone. Clear aligners are a great option for orthodontic patients who have mild to moderately misaligned teeth, crowding issues or slight gaps between teeth. If you have serious crowding or gaps, or have an underbite or overbite, then we will need to discuss another form of treatment.
FAQs
Clear aligners are orthodontic devices that are a transparent, plastic form of dental braces used to adjust teeth. They offer a discreet and convenient option for straightening teeth compared to traditional metal braces.
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners work by gradually moving your teeth into their desired position. They are custom-made for your teeth and designed to apply controlled forces in the right places. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set in the series.
What are the benefits of clear aligners?
The benefits of clear aligners include their discreet appearance, the ability to remove them for eating and cleaning, and a more comfortable experience compared to traditional braces. They also allow for easier oral hygiene and typically require fewer office visits.
Are clear aligners right for everyone?
Clear aligners are suitable for many people, but they are not right for everyone. They are most effective for mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Your orthodontist will evaluate your specific situation to determine if clear aligners are the best option for you.
How long does treatment with clear aligners take?
The duration of treatment with clear aligners varies depending on the complexity of the case. On average, treatment takes about 12 to 18 months, but some cases may be shorter or longer. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized treatment plan.
What is the cost of clear aligners?
The cost of clear aligners can vary widely based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. It's best to consult with your orthodontist for an accurate estimate. Many offices offer payment plans to help manage the cost.
Do clear aligners hurt?
Clear aligners can cause some discomfort, especially when starting a new set. This is usually a sign that the aligners are working to move your teeth. The discomfort is typically mild and goes away after a few days.
How often should I wear my clear aligners?
For the best results, you should wear your clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Consistent wear is crucial to ensure your treatment progresses as planned.
Will insurance cover clear aligners?
Insurance coverage for clear aligners varies. Some insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, while others may not. It's important to check with your insurance provider and your orthodontist's office to understand your benefits.
How do I take care of my clear aligners?
To take care of your clear aligners, clean them regularly with a gentle toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the plastic. Always store your aligners in their case when not in use to prevent damage or loss.
Contact Us Today!
If you are interested in finding out more about clear aligners, or if you are a candidate, contact Amborn Orthodontics at (503) 967-9887 to schedule your consultation.
