If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, then visit an orthodontist to learn more about treatment with plastic aligners. An orthodontist can examine your teeth with an X-ray to determine if aligner treatment is appropriate. The clear braces Brentwood orthodontists recommend are designed for teenagers or adults. Aligner treatment is not used on children because their rapid growth makes it difficult to wear the same set of clear braces for two weeks. In addition, treatment with aligners is designed to repair mild to moderate misalignments rather than serious malocclusions.
Wear Each Set of Aligners for Two Weeks
When you have overcrowded teeth, an orthodontist will create the molds for aligners after collecting images of your facial structure. Specialized computer software is used to project how the position of your teeth will change in six months to a year in order to create a series of aligners. You must wear your first set of aligners for two weeks before switching to the next set of clear braces. An orthodontist might tell you to throw away the old set, but some orthodontists want to examine the worn-out aligners to determine if the devices are working properly.
Continue to Brush and Floss Your Teeth
Occasionally, your orthodontist will examine your teeth during aligner treatment to determine if the devices are working correctly, and an important part of this examination is seeing how well you are providing oral hygiene for your teeth. You must wear each set of aligners at least 20 hours each day, including while you sleep. It is possible to drink water while wearing aligners, but you should remove the devices while eating meals and snacks. To have a beautiful smile while wearing aligners, avoid drinking beverages that have artificial colors that can stain the plastic.
Follow Your Orthodontist’s Treatment Plan
It is a good idea to carry a case with you to hold your aligners while eating a meal at a restaurant or cafeteria, and make sure to put the case in your pocket or backpack rather than on a tray. If you throw away your aligners accidentally, then ask your orthodontist for permission to wear the next set in the series. Your orthodontist will give you several sets of aligners, but it is important to wear the devices in the correct sequence to avoid disrupting your treatment time.
