Correcting crooked or crowded teeth doesn’t necessarily mean metal braces. In fact, we offer our patients in Astoria, NY, a nearly invisible alternative known as ClearCorrect. How does ClearCorrect address misalignment and what should patients expect from these comfortable aligners?
The Clear Difference
Traditional orthodontics are very noticeable. We have to attach metal brackets to the front of the teeth and then connect a metal arch wire to them. Over the course of 18 months to 2 years, we then adjust tension to move the teeth into optimal positions. While effective, many adults and teens may actually opt to live with misalignment instead of seeking treatment, concerned about the impact braces will have on their appearance. With ClearCorrect, we don’t employ metal orthodontics at all. Instead, we offer practically invisible plastic aligners.
The Benefits of Correcting Misalignment
When we have uneven teeth, this often provides hiding places for food particles that brushing and flossing cannot reach. Over time, as bacteria break down these trapped food particles, the risk of tooth decay and gum disease increases. In addition, misalignment often places pressure on the jaw joints, leading to a greater likelihood of TMJ disorder and bruxism forming. As you can see, correcting your smile’s alignment improves much more than just your smile’s appearance, offering a major boost to your overall oral health as well.
The Treatment Process
We begin the process by taking detailed impressions of your smile, which will be used in a lab setting to design and fabricate the aligners. We create a series of them and then send them home with you. You then wear them for between 20 and 22 hours a day. About every two weeks, we recommend upgrading to a new set. For most, optimal results take about a year. However younger patients and those with more substantial misalignment may need up to 18 months.
During the treatment process, you can remove them prior to meals, allowing you to eat your favorite foods. With metal braces, patients often need to avoid certain foods that could become trapped in their braces or possibly damage them. One also has the opportunity to remove them before brushing and flossing, which improves oral health during the treatment process. Finally, as long as you maintain your average of 20 to 22 hours daily, you could remove them for special occasions, such as graduations. If you have any questions about our clear aligners, or if you think you’re ready to obtain a straighter and healthier smile, then contact our team today.
Ready for a Straighter Smile?
We want to work with you to help you enjoy an even and healthy smile! For more information, schedule a consultation with us by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
