Digital Impressions and Scans: Instead of taking traditional dental impressions using putty-like material, digital impressions or scans of patient teeth and jaws may be taken using intraoral scanners or imaging systems; these digital impressions provide 3D models which help create tailored treatment plans.
Treatment Planning: Dental professionals use special software to develop virtual treatment plans which map out exactly where each tooth will move during treatment, so both themselves and their patient can visualize expected results, making any necessary modifications or making any necessary decisions before beginning actual care.
Aligner Fabrication: When your treatment plan has been finalized, aligners are custom-fabricated using advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to fit snugly over each patient’s teeth while applying gentle pressure that gradually shifts them to their ideal positions.
Apply the Aligners: Patients typically wear each set of aligners for at least 1-2 weeks before moving on to the next in the series. Optimally, at least 20-22 hours a day of alignment wear should occur; removal can only occur for eating, drinking (other than water), brushing and flossing purposes – so compliance with wearing aligners as directed is critical to its successful application.
Monitoring Progress: At regular check-up appointments throughout their treatment process, patients meet with their dental professional to track progress and make any needed adjustments or address any of their own concerns or questions about whether treatment is going according to plan. These meetings also give an opportunity for patients to address any queries and address any potential concerns with treatment that arise.
Refinement and Retention: Refining aligners may be needed in some instances to achieve optimal tooth alignment, however once their desired position has been attained patients may move onto retention aligners (retainers) to keep this new alignment from shifting back. This ensures no relapse.
Clear aligner treatment offers numerous advantages over traditional braces, including:
Discreet Appearance: Clear aligners offer a virtually undetectable orthodontic solution, making them a popular choice among people seeking to align their teeth without drawing unnecessary attention to themselves or their orthodontic treatment plan.
Comfort: Clear aligners are constructed using comfortable plastic material that reduces irritation or discomfort caused by metal brackets or wires.
Removability: Clear aligners offer the advantage of being removable, making life much simpler during treatment while helping maintain oral hygiene and providing patients with access to an array of food choices. This makes for better oral hygiene management as well as enjoying
varied menu choices during therapy.
Convenience: Clear aligner treatment usually requires fewer in-office visits compared to traditional braces as there is no wire tightening necessary. Patients typically receive multiple sets of aligners all at once and only need to visit their dental professional periodically for progress checks.