The Clear Aligner Orthodontics Process From Start to Finish

Traditionally, braces featured metal wires and brackets designed to move and straighten teeth gradually. In recent years, several less visible alternatives have been hitting the market. These include clear aligners and lingual braces worn on the back of the teeth. 

Clear Aligners have been used to perform Orthodontics for many years and are currently the most popular way to align teeth and be left with great results. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are far less noticeable. Over time, the clear plastic trays slowly shift your teeth through a process of various aligners switched every week.

The Clear Aligner Process

Are you considering using clear aligners to straighten your teeth? If so, you should learn about the process from start to finish. The clear aligner process is different from that involved in getting traditional braces. While the particular procedure you go through may differ slightly, the general outline is the same. Knowing what to expect will help you determine whether it is right for you. 

Find a Dental Specialist Trained with Clear Aligners

The clear aligner process begins with a search for a clear aligner/orthodontics dentist such as those at Wanlass Dental. Not all dentists and orthodontists have the requisite training and qualification to treat patients.

 

Initial Consultation

Once you've decided on a qualified dental professional, you will schedule an appointment for an initial consultation. The dentist will examine your teeth and ask about your objectives. Your dentist will likely take pictures and X-rays of your teeth to check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or any other dental issues. If you are a good candidate for the treatment, you will get an estimate of how long it might take to achieve your desired results and the cost.

 

Molding Process

During your initial visit or follow-up appointment, your dentist will scan your teeth and take X-rays and photographs. These images will help create an accurate model of your teeth and mouth. Your dentist will send the scans and treatment plan to the lab. When the laboratory finishes making your clear aligner trays, they will send them to your dentist.

Fitting the First Tray

Your dental specialist will use tiny dental attachments to hold your aligner trays in place and help with gradual tooth movement. These attachments are virtually invisible, temporary, and painless to install. The dental specialist will ensure your aligners fit correctly before explaining your aftercare program. After this, you are ready to go. 

Follow-up Visits

It would be best if you went for your follow-up appointment a few weeks after getting your clear aligners. Your dentist will check the fit of your trays and teeth movements. Before you achieve your desired results, you will go through several aligner trays.

Conclusion

Over one million adult patients visit a dentist yearly to straighten their teeth. Orthodontic treatments for adults were pretty uncommon in the past. Today, more adults realize how easy it is to straighten their smiles at any age. The clear aligner process is easy and effective, which is why it continues to grow in popularity.


 

For more information on clear aligners or to see if you’re a candidate, schedule an appointment with our team at Wanlass Dental in Las Vegas, Nevada. Call us at (702) 367-4412 today!