Clear Aligner Treatment FAQs
Clear Aligner Treatment Answering the Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Clear Aligners Work?
Our orthodontists are certified clear aligner treatment providers!
Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth without using brackets or wires. Instead, Clear Aligners are made of a clear, plastic material that is virtually invisible when worn. Clear Aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and are changed out every two weeks as your teeth begin to shift into place.
Clear Aligners work by putting gentle pressure on your teeth to move them into the desired position. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gradually shift until they are in their final position. Your orthodontist can tell you how long each stage of treatment will take so that you can plan accordingly.
If you are considering clear aligners, you must consult an orthodontist to see if you are a good candidate for this treatment. Clear aligners are not suitable for everyone. Come to Orthodontic Experts, so our specialized orthodontist can tell you if this is the best option.
Which Orthodontic Problems Can Clear Aligners Treat?
Almost any orthodontic problem can be treated with Clear Aligners. This is because Clear Aligners are very versatile and can be customized to suit each patient’s individual needs. Some of the most common problems that clear aligners can treat include crowding, spacing, rotation, and tipping of the teeth. In addition, Clear Aligners can also be used to treat some cases of underbite and overbite.
How Can I Clean The Clear Aligners?
You’re not alone if you’re wondering how to clean your Clear Aligners. Many people who wear clear aligners are unsure of the best way to keep them clean and free of bacteria. While cleaning your aligners regularly, it’s also important to be gentle so as not to damage them.
Rinse your aligners with cold water before putting them in your mouth. This will help remove any saliva or food particles on them. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to gently brush your aligners, being careful not to damage them. Rinse well with cold water afterward.
Moreover, soak your aligners in a denture cleaner or mild soap for about 15 minutes, then rinse well with cold water. You can do this once a day if you like. Avoid hot water when cleaning your aligners, as this can cause them to warp. Also, avoid using harsh cleaners, such as bleach, as these can damage the aligners.
When Should I Wear Clear Aligners?
You should always wear clear aligners, except when you are eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. It is okay to drink water with clear aligners, but if you drink anything other than water, they should be removed to avoid staining.
When you do take them out, be sure to store them in one of the cases that we provide you. The easiest way to lose them is to wrap them in a napkin and throw them out in the trash. Replacing them costs $100 per aligner so try not to lose them! When you take them out to eat, it is best to brush your teeth and clean the aligners before putting them back in.
However, if you lose your Clear Aligners, use the previous one and call our office so that we can order a new one for you. We proudly serve the residents of Algonquin, Arlington Heights, Avondale, Aurora, Bucktown, Burbank, Chicago, DeKalb, Harwood Heights, Waukegan, Hillside, Homewood, Joliet, Mundelein, Pilsen, and Rockford and their neighboring communities with the best orthodontic care at an affordable price.
How Often Can I Take Out My Aligners?
Your orthodontist will determine the length of time that you will wear your Clear Aligners. However, on average, patients wear their aligners for 20-22 hours daily. You will need to remove your aligners for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. It is important to clean your aligners regularly to prevent bacteria build-up. As long as you keep the aligner in for the majority of the day, there’s no problem with removing it whenever you need to.
What Is The Treatment Duration?
The duration of treatment for Clear Aligners will vary depending on the individual case. During your consultation with an orthodontist, they will be able to give you a more specific timeline for your case. In general, treatment with clear aligners takes between 12 and 24 months. However, more complex cases may take longer, and some patients may require additional treatments after their initial course of Clear Aligners to achieve their desired results.
Does Clear Aligner Treatment Work For Everyone?
Unfortunately, not all patients can benefit from Clear Aligners. The success of Clear Aligner treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of the misalignment, the patient’s compliance, and the orthodontist’s expertise. At Orthodontic Experts, we are equipped with a team of experienced orthodontists who are highly skilled in braces and Clear Aligners. They can make a recommendation best suited for you after your no-cost initial consultation.
What Is The Cost Of Clear Aligner Treatment?
While a Clear Aligner is a new and exciting way to improve your smile, it’s not as expensive as you think. In general, Clear Aligner treatment costs between $3,500 and $6,000. Different factors affect the treatment cost. The most important factor is the severity of the misalignment. More severe misalignments will require more treatments and, therefore, are more expensive. Other important factors include the length of treatment. Treatment usually lasts between 12 and 24 months but can prolong in severe cases.
Will Dental Insurance Cover Clear Aligner Treatment?
Most dental insurance policies will not cover Clear Aligner treatment. This is because Clear Aligners are considered cosmetic in nature. However, some dental insurance policies may offer a discount on the cost of treatment.