A crooked smile is no laughing matter. It’s not much of a smiling matter either. That’s why so many people with crooked teeth visit their dentists asking for a way to get a straighter smile. And the fact is, orthodontics, such as clear aligners, can totally reinvent your smile, or get you that smile you had back when you were a kid. 

Sound too good to be true? It’s not! Read on to learn more about how clear aligners from your cosmetic dentist in Corpus Christi can give you the straight teeth you so desperately desire. 

What are clear aligners?

We’re all familiar with the traditional, old-school approach to orthodontics. And, quite frankly, metal braces are highly effective in straightening teeth, especially in younger kids who are still growing. But metal braces aren’t the only choice. Today, clear aligner systems like clear aligners can give you the flexibility to get a straighter smile without some of the restrictions that come with more traditional methods.

Here’s how clear aligners work.

Clear aligner treatment is a modern approach to straightening teeth. It uses a series of precision-crafted aligner trays to ensure a snug fit over your teeth. The treatment starts with Dr. Orchard or Dr. Villamil thoroughly assessing your mouth using 3D imaging. This creates a map that is then used to design aligners that gradually move your teeth into their correct positions.

Each set of aligners is worn for about one week before moving on to the next in the series, allowing your teeth to adjust slowly over time. The process continues until your teeth are aligned as planned. You must wear the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours daily for the best results. They should only be removed when eating, drinking anything other than water, or during your oral hygiene routine.

Clear aligners are effective for straightening teeth. 

We understand the frustrations that you may have with a less-than-straight smile. At Orchard Dental Associates, we want everyone to feel like smiling. When we smile, either to ourselves or others, it creates a chemical reaction that is good for our bodies. Smiling releases cortisol and endorphins—the natural happy chemicals that give us that feel-good emotion.

We really do promise that this treatment for your malocclusion or crooked teeth is real and highly effective. Here’s why clear aligner treatment is so effective.

• Custom fit: Each aligner is tailored for your teeth. This means you’ll get a comfortable fit; before long, you might even forget you’re wearing them.
• Advanced technology: Clear aligners use modern 3D dental printing technology to create aligners that accurately predict and apply the force needed to shift teeth into place.
• Virtually invisible: The clear plastic makes aligners barely noticeable. No one needs to know you’re wearing them.
• Removable: Unlike traditional braces, aligners are removable, so you can eat, drink, brush, and floss, making it easier to maintain your oral hygiene. This ensures you can eat what you want without restrictions (in moderation, of course).
• Fewer office visits: With clear aligners, you typically need fewer checkups. We plan each set of aligners in advance to save you time.
• Predictable results: Using planning software, your team at Orchard Dental Associates can show you your expected teeth movement and final outcome before we begin.

Are you a candidate for clear aligners?

Now you get it. Clear aligners offer so many advantages and you’re excited to get that straighter smile you’ve been putting off for years. The obvious question now is, are you a candidate for clear aligners?  The answer to that question could be yes if you tick the following categories. 

• You wore braces in the past but didn’t follow through with your retainer. As a result, your teeth have shifted back into that misaligned position.
• You’re tired of hiding your smile behind closed lips.
• You’re responsible enough to wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day. And, you’ll be careful not to accidentally throw them away with the trash at mealtime.
• You have the patience and dedication to power through adjusting to the fit and feel of your clear aligners.
• You’re done growing and all of your permanent teeth have come in (we recommend more traditional braces for young adults and children).
• You practice good oral hygiene at home, including brushing twice a day, flossing at least once per day, and rinsing particles away with fluoridated mouthwash.
• You commit to caring for your aligner trays to keep them clean and free from bacteria.

Now is the time to get those straight teeth you’ve been wanting.

If you think you’re a candidate for clear aligners, stop waiting. Request a smile consultation with Orchard Dental Associates today. We’re in the business of happy smiles and healthy teeth. With clear aligners, you’ll get both. And, we can’t wait to see you smiling from ear to ear after your treatment wraps up. Come on in and see us.