First, the dentist will examine the patient. The dentist can decide if the patient is the right candidate for aligners. There are many kinds of aligners, and even if one brand is not correct, another one might be. The provider’s experience and skill are critical to the success of the treatment.
If the patient is the right candidate for clear aligners, the dentist can take a medical and dental history. The dentist might take X-rays of the mouth and photograph the teeth and face. The dentist then sends these to the lab to create the aligners. The lab makes a 3D model of the patient’s teeth on a computer, and the dentist can use that to create the trays.
The trays have to be worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next one. The teeth become slightly straighter with each new tray. The patient can expect the teeth to move around a tenth of a millimeter each day. Each new aligner places some pressure on the teeth, encouraging them to move. If the patient wears them enough, the teeth can start to move to match the tray. The key is consistent, light pressure.
Sometimes, the patient might need to have attachments on the teeth to help the aligners move. These are plastic bumps that are tooth-colored. These allow the aligners to grip the attachment to become straighter. The goal is to place pressure on specific areas so that the aligners can move the teeth in the right location.
Sometimes, the patient might have to use rubber bands with the aligners. These bands can place more pressure on the teeth to correct the patient’s bite. That allows the aligners to do more than they could by themselves. Patients will need to follow the dentists’ instructions carefully.
One advantage of clear aligners is that it is easy to take them out to drink, eat, or clean. Plus, it is not hard to care for the aligners. Patients need to wear the aligners for about 22 hours each day. The treatment time might be around six months to two years, depending on the patient. The time depends on how severe the issues were.
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Patients who want to try clear aligners should visit the dentist. That way, the dentist can determine if the patients are the right candidates for the aligners. The appointment will begin with an exam of the mouth and perhaps X-rays. Making an appointment today is the first step.
Request an appointment or call Mission Valley Dental Arts at 619-805-4248 for an appointment in our San Diego office.
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