Clear Aligners
Murphy, TX
Clear Aligners provided by Jason Larsen, DDS
and Jean Larsen, DDS
in Murphy, TX at Parkside Dental
Feeling self-conscious about misaligned teeth is common. Traditional braces are one solution, but clear aligners offer a discreet alternative. At Parkside Dental, our dentist is available to discuss how clear aligners can benefit you.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are orthodontic devices serving as alternatives to traditional braces, guiding teeth into proper positions uniquely. Unlike braces, they lack metal wires or brackets; instead, they use gradual force for tooth movement. Typically made from durable plastic, these aligners are custom-fabricated for each mouth.
How Clear Aligners Work
 Clear aligners are designed to straighten your teeth through small, incremental movements. These movements create gentle pressure that is transmitted from the roots of your teeth to your jawbones. The jawbones respond by moving the tooth sockets, shifting your teeth in tandem with the movement of the jaw.
Our dentist will specifically arrange your aligners to direct your teeth in a particular direction, guiding them toward the desired alignment. Our dentist will recommend wearing your clear aligners for at least 22 hours a day, with the remaining hours in the day allocated for activities like eating, brushing, and flossing, during which the aligners can be removed.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Almost Invisible
Clear aligners are an excellent choice for those concerned about aesthetics. Made from a polymer material, they are nearly invisible, making it hard for others to notice you are wearing them.
Removable for Convenience
These aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out for drinking, eating, brushing, and flossing. This convenience ensures you can maintain good oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
Improved Oral Hygiene
With clear aligners, there is no worry about food getting trapped, as they should be removed when eating or drinking. The absence of brackets and wires also contributes to better oral hygiene.
No Dietary Restrictions
Enjoy all your favorite foods with clear aligners. They impose no dietary restrictions, as you simply remove them before eating and reinsert them afterward.
Customized Treatment
Utilizing advanced computer technology, our dentist employs 3D imaging and virtual simulations to map out the movement of your teeth during treatment. Each set of aligners is crafted to apply the right amount of pressure at each stage, ensuring a treatment plan tailored to your specific dental needs.
Comfortable and Smooth
Clear aligners are designed to be smooth and fit snugly in your mouth. This allows for comfort and minimal interference in your daily activities.
Shorter Treatment Time
Thanks to advanced technology enabling precise jawbone movement, clear aligners often lead to faster results. While treatment duration varies individually, they are generally recognized for their time efficiency in achieving desired outcomes.
The Clear Aligner Process
The clear aligner process begins with a scheduled consultation with our qualified dentist. This initial step involves diagnosing your orthodontic condition, starting from the root.
The second step involves our dentist utilizing advanced technology, such as 3D imaging and X-rays, to develop a customized smile treatment plan. This plan outlines the duration of treatment, costs, and expectations during the process.
In the third step, our dentist will finalize the treatment plan. The scans taken in the second step are sent to the lab, where expert technicians at our Murphy, TX, practice will craft several custom aligners tailored for your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit.
The fourth step requires you to return to our Murphy, TX, practice to collect your aligners. During this visit, our orthodontist will demonstrate the correct way to wear the aligners for optimal results. Typically, they will ask you to practice inserting and wearing the aligners until they feel comfortable in your mouth.
The fifth step involves regular monitoring at our Murphy, TX, practice to track the progress of your aligners. You will have appointments every eight to 10 weeks to ensure the aligners are progressing as per the 3D simulation.
The final step celebrates the completion of your treatment with the final set of aligners. This marks the end of your aligner journey.
Are You a Candidate for Clear Aligners?
Most individuals with mild to moderate misalignment issues are suitable candidates for clear aligners. This treatment option, known for its lack of side effects, promises effective results toward achieving a perfect smile. However, clear aligners might not be the ideal choice for more complex dental issues, such as severe bite problems or extreme overcrowding. Nonetheless, our dentist can assess your specific needs and suggest the most appropriate treatment option for you.
Caring for Your Clear Aligners
To achieve the best results, we advise regular check-ups at our Murphy, TX, practice. These visits are crucial to ensure that your aligners are functioning correctly and that your treatment is progressing as initially planned.
For home care, you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before removing or reinserting your aligners. This practice is your primary defense against bacteria and germs.
Additionally, if you have long nails, be mindful as they will come into contact with your mouth. In situations where you are not near soap and water but need to eat, using a sanitizer is a practical alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do I need to wear clear aligners each day?
Typically, our dentist will recommend wearing your clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily. This amount of time ensures effective treatment.
Can I eat with my clear aligners on?
We recommend that you remove your aligners when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing. Doing so helps to maintain their condition and effectiveness.
Will clear aligners affect my speech?
Initially, you might notice a slight change in your speech. However, this is usually a short-term adjustment, and you should quickly adapt within a few days.
How often do I need to change my aligners?
At our Murphy, TX, practice, we will update your aligner sets approximately every two weeks throughout your treatment plan. We will advise you on the frequency according to your specific needs.
Can I play sports while wearing clear aligners?
Playing sports with your aligners is generally safe. They are custom-fitted and snugly secure over your teeth, designed to be comfortable and minimally intrusive during physical activities.
Schedule Your Clear Aligners Appointment in Murphy, TX, Today
Transform your smile with Parkside Dental. Call us at (972) 442-7550 for a consultation now. |
