Clear Aligner Therapy in Rancho Bernardo

What Is Clear Aligner Therapy?

Clear aligner therapy is a highly effective orthodontic treatment for addressing malocclusions. Most dentists recommend it as an alternative to traditional braces, typically the go-to option for complications like overbite, crowded teeth, and other malocclusions. Clear aligner therapy utilizes a set of aligners made of clear plastic to gradually move the teeth into their correct positions. These aligners apply pressure to the teeth, slowly shifting their alignment until straight. Our dentists will create custom aligners that match your tooth’s exact specifications.

Most Popular Clear Aligner Brands

Invisalign is by far the most popular brand, which uses a strong and flexible plastic called SmartTrack to create aligners that you wear over your teeth for at least 20 hours daily. Other Brands like Strayt, ClearCorrect, and Smyle are also highly effective and made from high-quality plastic to ensure a beautiful smile with perfectly straight teeth.

Initial Consultation and Treatment Plan

After scheduling your appointment, the dentist will call you in for a consultation. This consultation involves a comprehensive assessment of your medical history and dental situation. The dentist will also take X-rays to check the position of your teeth in their sockets. The dentist will use the information from the consultation to create a treatment plan for your clear aligners.

Taking Impression and Aligner Fabrications

Next, the dentist will use a dental putty or a digital scanner to get impressions of your teeth. They’ll then send the mold or 3D renders to a lab to manufacture your dentures. The aligners are made from BPA-free plastic that is strong, non-toxic, and long-lasting. Fabrication usually takes three to four weeks.

Aligner Fitting and Follow-Up Appointments

Once the aligners are ready, the dentist will schedule an appointment to fit them on your teeth. During the appointment, they’ll fit the aligners over your teeth and ask how comfortable you feel with them all. They’ll take note of areas that are too tight or loose, and take new impressions for a better fit. If the aligners fit perfectly, the dentist will keep them on and give your guidelines for taking care of them. These guidelines include when to wear them, how to clean them, and the dates for follow-up appointments.

Difference Between Clear Aligners and Braces: Which One Is Best for Me?

Clear aligners and braces are both orthodontic treatments for solving malocclusions but they are intrinsically different. For starters, clear aligners are removable, meaning you can remove them when eating or brushing your teeth. Braces, on the other hand, are permanent dental devices that can only be installed and removed by a licensed dentist or orthodontist.Braces and clear aligners are both used to straighten teeth, but they differ in terms of material and visibility. Braces can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal, while clear aligners are made from plastic. Clear aligners are hardly noticeable, while braces are visually intrusive and easily seen on the teeth. Both options are effective, so it's best to consult your dentist to determine which one is right for you.

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We wanted to create an affordable option for our patients without insurance, and our membership plan does just that. Pay at your convenience with monthly options that fit right in with your budget and lifestyle.

  • Comprehensive Exams
  • Necessary X-Rays
  • Cleanings
  • Fluoride
  • 20% Off All Other Procedures
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