Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished you had straighter teeth? Do you hesitate to smile in pictures because you don’t like how your teeth look? Have you ever considered getting braces? Did you know there are now alternatives to traditional metal braces?
The world of orthodontics continues to improve, and you may have options for straightening your teeth that you need to be aware of, or you may need to learn how teeth straightening works. This ultimate guide to clear aligners will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision for you or your child.
What Are Traditional Metal Braces?
Traditional metal braces use stainless steel bands, metal brackets, and wires to straighten your teeth. Your dental professional applies these metal braces; they will bond or glue a bracket to each tooth and then place a wire over the brackets. Stretchy bands are used to keep the wires in place over time.
With traditional braces, you will visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly for adjustments. The dentist will monitor your progress; most patients wear metal braces for an average of twenty-four months, but some patients require less time, and others require more time.
What Are SureSmile Clear Aligners?
Thankfully, some patients are candidates for SureSmile clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces. If you have mild to moderate crowding of your teeth, there are numerous benefits to SureSmile clear aligners, including:
- They are virtually invisible—the crystal-clear material used to straighten your teeth can barely be seen. You can smile with confidence even when you are wearing them.
- Your treatment time may be shorter—With SureSmile clear aligners, your course of treatment may be as short as twelve to fifteen months.
- They are removable for meals—With SureSmile aligners, there are no food restrictions like there are with traditional braces. You can remove your aligners when you eat and replace them when you’re finished.
- They are comfortable—You won’t have to worry about cuts on your lips and gums with SureSmile aligners; you will barely know you’re wearing them.
- You can enjoy a confident smile during treatment—During your treatment time with SureSmile clear aligners, you won’t have to feel self-conscious or hide your smile!
How Long Do Clear Aligners Work?
One of the best things about SureSmile clear aligners is that once you have completed your course of treatment, the results can last a lifetime. You will have straight teeth and a beautiful smile for the rest of your life.
How Long Does It Take for Clear Aligners to Straighten Teeth?
Although every patient is different, you can expect to wear your SureSmile clear aligners for an average of twelve to fifteen months. Compared to traditional metal braces, your wear time is up to forty percent less with SureSmile clear aligners.
Your dental professional will tell you that to achieve these results, you need to wear your clear aligners for twenty-two hours a day.
Are You Interested in Clear Aligners in White Bear Lake, MN?
Do you think you or your teen might be a candidate for clear aligners? Do you have questions about clear aligners in White Bear Lake, MN? If so, we want to hear from you. Please get in touch with our dental office at (651) 426-8998 to schedule a consultation or ask a question.