How to Get Straighter Teeth and an Aligned Bite at E-Care Dentistry in Olathe
Having teeth straightened isn’t just for kids and teens anymore! Adults are choosing clear aligner trays to correct bite misalignment and straighten their pearly whites in lieu of traditional metal braces.
There are so many reasons to opt for aligners, and most people have questions about what it’s like to wear them, how to care for them, and whether they’ll work properly. Keep reading to learn why they’ve rocketed to popularity and to determine whether they’re right for you and your teeth.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners for teeth are orthodontic appliances made of transparent plastic. They are used as dental braces to adjust and straighten teeth. Clear aligners can help to correct overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite.
They are perfectly fitted to the upper and lower arcs of your teeth and pop in separately. As your teeth move, you’ll get new clear aligners over time, until your teeth are straightened and your bite is as properly aligned as possible.
How Much Do Clear Aligners Cost?
Because clear aligners are considered cosmetic treatments, dental insurance generally does not cover them.
The cost of clear aligners vary, depending on the number of trays you need to complete your treatment and the brand of aligners your cosmetic dentist uses.
For a precise clear aligners cost estimate, you’ll need to meet with a cosmetic dentist or orthodontist, who will create a plan for you and can calculate your monthly payments or lump sum.
Do Clear Aligners Work Better Than Braces?
There is no definitive answer as to whether metal braces work better than clear aligners. However, many adults opt for clear aligners over traditional braces because they are easier to conceal, and most people will not even know you have them on.
Most dentists agree there is little difference in results between clear aligners and metal braces. In fact, clear aligners can help fine-tune the final movements of your teeth after you’ve worn metal braces.
Do I Have Any Restrictions With Clear Aligners for Teeth?
Yes. You should not eat or drink while wearing your clear aligners, except for plain water. You also cannot chew gum while wearing them.
These restrictions are meant to help your teeth stay healthy and ensure the effectiveness of your aligners. Your dentist or orthodontist will share more specific restrictions with you.
When Do I Wear My Clear Aligners? How Long Do I Wear Them?
For best results, you’ll need to wear your clear aligners at least 22 hours per day. This gives you enough time to remove them to eat, drink, and brush your teeth.
The duration you must wear your clear aligners in order to straighten your teeth depends on the treatment you require. Most people wear theirs for between 6 and 12 months.
What Are the Differences Between Clear Aligners vs. Braces?
The main difference between clear aligners and traditional braces is that clear aligners are less noticeable and affect eating and oral hygiene habits slightly less.
For example, with traditional metal braces, you may need to utilize specialized flossers to clean food particles and plaque from between your teeth and wires. Some braces-wearers opt for a water flosser to aid in this process. You can continue using your favorite flossing product during your clear aligners treatment, however.
Why Should I Opt for Clear Aligners for Teeth?
You may want to be fitted for clear aligners if you are dissatisfied with your smile and are seeking straighter teeth or to correct a misaligned bite. If you want to conceal that you are straightening your teeth, then clear aligners are a better choice for you than metal braces.
Your dentist or orthodontist may also prefer that you wear clear aligners, or may prefer that you use metal braces, depending on your teeth-straightening goals.
Get a No-Obligation Consultation for Clear Teeth Aligners in Kansas City
If you’re interested in straightening your teeth, aligning your bite, and gaining confidence in your smile, talk to an excellent and experienced dentist at E-Care in Olathe, Kansas.
Conveniently located on South Black Bob Road at 150th Street, E-Care Dentistry is home to a caring staff, spa-like practice, and a menu of top-of-the-line cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you love your smile even more, including clear aligners for teeth.
To learn whether you’re a candidate, schedule an initial appointment for preventative dental care on our website, or call us at 913-210-1701.