Clear Aligners

Clear AlignersDo we offer clear corrective aligners? Absolutely! Dr Colter has been treating patients using clear removable aligners for over 30 year. This is not a DIY project, please call our office for an evalutation. Dr Colter will examine your problem and answer all your questions. These can be quite affordable and remember, at our office you will be seen by a Board Certified Orthodontist at every visit, something the mail order companies can not offer.

How Do Clear Aligners Work?

A series of custom-made aligner trays are used to gradually shift your teeth into place. Each tray is designed to move just one tooth or one section of teeth at a time. Once the tray’s work is complete (typically every 3-6 weeks), we move on to the next aligner tray. Of special note is our aligners are made in-house under the direct supervision of Dr Colter. It has been shown eliminating the off site (and sometimes out of country) laboratory shortens treatment time and improves treatment results.

Pain and Soreness

Because there are no brackets and wires, clear aligners do not cause significant pain or soreness. In some cases, patients feel temporary discomfort (pressure) for the first few days after switching trays. That pressure may be uncomfortable but is actually a good sign that the trays are doing their job!

Caring for Clear Aligners

Aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours per day. They should only be removed for cleaning, eating and drinking. To clean your aligners, simply brush and rinse them each time you brush your teeth.

Treatment Time

Treatment time typically falls within the range of 9-16 months. Patients will also benefit from wearing a retainer after treatment is complete to prevent regression. This will all be discussed as part of your overall treatment plan.

For more information on the various invisible braces solutions, please give us a call!