Clear Aligners Modesto, CA
Crooked, misaligned teeth can make you self-conscious about your smile. If you are eager to achieve straighter teeth but reluctant to try traditional braces, you have options. Clear aligners are a discreet way to shift teeth into the correct position.
Clear aligners are available at Great Smiles Dental in Modesto and the surrounding area. Unlike clunky braces, aligners are almost invisible. Patients can remove their aligners for photos, sports, and special events. Call us today at (209) 222-3636 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Understanding Clear Aligners
Braces can correct a range of orthodontic problems, but they are not always comfortable. The sharp metal can irritate the mouth and gums. Clear aligners are different. These appliances are made of smooth, durable plastic.
Aligners gently guide and straighten teeth to provide a brighter smile. Unlike braces, aligners are discreet and fully removable. Patients can take their aligners out for special events like weddings, graduation, or proms.
“Unlike braces, aligners are discreet and fully removable.”
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
Aligners offer several advantages over traditional braces. For instance, clear aligners are:
- Removable
- Discreet
- Smooth and nonabrasive
Unlike metal braces, clear aligners will not irritate sensitive mouth tissues. Patients who opt for aligners can also skip tedious dietary restrictions. Those who choose braces may have to avoid hard candy and sticky treats. With aligners, however, one can simply remove the trays to enjoy their favorite foods.
Keep in mind that aligners are not suitable for everyone. For example, aligners are not an appropriate option for young children whose mouths are still developing. Dental providers generally recommend clear aligners for patients who have already achieved their adult jaw size and shape.
Clear aligners cannot fix every dental concern. Some complex issues may require traditional braces or headgear. We can provide in-depth guidance. If clear aligners are not an option, we can help select an alternate treatment.
“Dental providers generally recommend clear aligners for patients who have already achieved their adult jaw size and shape.”
Consistency is Key
Patients must wear clear aligners for 20-22 hours per day. Patients who reach this target enjoy a faster treatment and more consistent results. Most providers recommend removing the aligners only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Patients can expect to wear their aligners overnight, too.
Complying with treatment can be a roadblock for some patients, especially teens. Patients who tend to snack or sip coffee throughout the day may have trouble keeping their aligners in place. However, removing the aligners for several hours each day can reduce the effectiveness of your treatment.
Before investing in clear aligners, patients must be realistic about their limitations. This involves considering their lifestyle and personal habits. If they suspect that they may have trouble sticking to the treatment plan, braces might be a better choice.
“… removing the aligners for several hours each day can reduce the effectiveness of your treatment.”
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How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligners are designed to move the teeth gradually, just as traditional braces are. Preceding treatment, Great Smiles Dental will conduct a thorough oral examination and take any necessary diagnostic records (such as X-rays, photographs, and impressions or digital scans of the teeth). Then, once Great Smiles Dental has made an official diagnosis, our team will begin working within the aligner software to plan the treatment process.
A series of clear aligners will then be custom-made using the patient's initial impressions or digital scans. By wearing them, the patient will gradually move their teeth to the proper bite. Aligners should be worn 22 hours per day or as prescribed by Great Smiles Dental. Patients should expect to wear each set of aligners for one or two weeks before moving on to the next set. However, the total number of aligners will vary according to each patient's unique needs.
“Clear aligners are designed to move the teeth gradually, just as traditional braces are.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How do clear aligners compare to traditional braces?
Q. How often do I need to wear my clear aligners?
Q. How long will it take to see results?
Q. What happens during the clear aligner treatment process?
People Also Ask
Q. What restorative methods can help patients improve their smiles?
Q. What are in-home treatment for teeth whitening?
Q. Can I combine multiple cosmetic treatments?
Q. How can dental cosmetics improve oral health?
Q. How does a dentist’s office whitening compare to an over-the-counter whitening?
Assessing Your Results
Treatment times can vary, and complex dental issues may take longer to treat. The average treatment time is less than two years. Teen patients may show results more quickly, as their teeth are still developing.
After patients complete their treatment plan, they should expect to continue wearing their aligners overnight. Our team might also suggest a permanent retainer. These devices are fixed in place to prevent the teeth from shifting.
This stage of treatment focuses on preserving the results. It is essential to follow up with the dentist's recommendations. If patients stop wearing the aligners too soon, the teeth may move back into their original position.
“The average treatment time is about 12-18 months.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do clear aligners hurt?
A. No. However, there may be brief periods of discomfort after switching to a new set of aligners. Your bite may also feel different during this time. These sensations are normal and will subside with time.
Q. Will clear aligners affect the way I talk?
A. It is possible to have a lisp when you initially become used to talking with the aligner on. However, for most people, the adjustment period is quite quick. It is very rare for speech to be impaired for an extended period.
Q. How should I clean my clear aligners?
A. Most clear aligners can be cleaned with a toothbrush and cool water, along with a non-abrasive toothbrush or gentle soap. Ask Great Smiles Dental for more information about how to keep your aligners clean.
Q. What are attachments? Will I need them for my clear aligner treatment?
A. Attachments are small, tooth-colored shapes that attach to the teeth. They give the aligners something to push gently on and make it possible to receive the right amount of force. They make more complex tooth movements possible. Great Smiles Dental can determine whether they are necessary for your treatment.
Q. What should I do if I break or lose my clear aligners?
A. Call our office immediately. Depending on what stage of treatment you are in, we may advise you to wear your previous set of aligners or move onto the next set. We may also provide you with replacement aligners as soon as we can.
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Invisalign® Terminology
Call Us Today
Clear aligners are an option for most teens and adults seeking orthodontic treatment. With clear aligners, patients can reduce the amount of time they spend in the dentist's chair. Treatment generally takes place in the privacy and convenience of the patient's home.
However, aligners might not be right for everyone. Some dental issues may require traditional braces or other specialized care. A personalized consultation can determine whether clear aligners are right for you.
Let Great Smiles Dental in Modesto determine whether you're a candidate for clear aligners. Call us at 209-222-3636 to schedule a consultation.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business, license, and website security
- Great Smiles Dental was established in 2014.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Stanislaus County and San Joaquin County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Modesto, Oakdale, Turlock, Tracy, Stockton, Lathrop, Ripon, Atwater, Salida, Manteca and Ceres
- CA (License #33512). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1629180617). View NPI Registry Information
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