What are clear aligners, and how do they work?
Clear aligners are clear trays made from scans of your teeth. When you first start treatment, your dentist will give you a couple of trays to take home and wear. Generally, each tray is worn for one to two weeks. As you progress through the different stages of trays, you will notice your teeth start to straighten little by little. This is because each tray you wear will move your teeth about 1 millimeter. You will return to your dentist or orthodontist regularly to monitor the status of your teeth and receive new trays until you have completed treatment. Then, you will be given retainers to help keep your teeth in place permanently.
How long does the process take?
Unfortunately, there is no right answer to this. People have different severities of malocclusion (crooked teeth). Those with extremely crooked teeth usually require longer treatment periods, while those who want to address a minor issue, such as a small gap, can be treated in a few months. It’s best to contact your dentist for a consultation. Remember, not everyone is a suitable candidate for clear aligners, and it’s essential to consult with a professional before signing up for treatment.
Invisalign, ClearCorrect, Candid, SmileDirectClub: What makes them different from one another?
So, you want to get your teeth straightened, but are unsure which company to choose? We highly recommend visiting your dentist before committing to any of these teeth alignment services. Surprisingly, there are several services available that do not require a visit to a dentist. It may sound convenient and cheap, but remember the saying, “you get what you pay for.” There have been cases where patients have lost their teeth because cavities and infections were not addressed before orthodontic treatment. It is essential to fill any cavities and remove any infections in the mouth before starting orthodontic treatment. You want to ensure that your teeth remain strong and healthy throughout the treatment.
Are some trays better than others?
Based on Dr. Ha’s experiences, he believes that there are differences between companies. Some trays use stronger materials that help move teeth more effectively, while others do not. Some systems use attachments on the teeth that can be clipped onto, helping to move your teeth in specific directions.
I’m interested! How do I proceed?
If you are in the Orange County area, near Newport Beach, and are interested in straightening your teeth, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Ha at Newport Beach Dental Studio. If he determines that you would be a suitable candidate, he can take digital impressions of your mouth and have your trays ready within a few days.