CLEAR ALIGNERS IN BURLESON, TX

Why Choose Clear Aligners?

Our dentist in Burleson provides SureSmile clear aligners as an alternative treatment to traditional metal braces. Unfortunately, some people who would immensely benefit from braces don’t get them because of the way they look. And we get it – braces aren’t the most convenient in some cases. Adults don’t want to look like a teen when they’re headed to the office or out on a business lunch. Teens often don’t want to be seen with a mouth full of metal that catches food or makes them speak funny. 

We don’t want our adult patients to look unprofessional or have their careers affected by missing out on opportunities because of their treatment. We don’t want our teen patients to worry about their image or develop self-esteem issues. That is why we have brought a clear solution for you that can provide straighter teeth for both teens and adults. 

How Do Clear Aligners Work?

Clear Aligners use plastic aligners that are custom fabricated using advanced technology to precisely move your teeth. Each set of aligners is designed slightly differently from the next. This reflects the transition your teeth make throughout the process. Along with the rigid trays, “buttons” are attached to the front of some teeth to gradually and gently move them into their proper position. These bonded “buttons” are tooth-colored; though you’ll be able to feel them with your tongue, most people won’t notice them when talking to you. Once you’ve completed treatment, we will remove the “buttons” leaving your teeth as good as new.

Why Choose Clear Aligner Therapy Over Braces?

Clear aligner therapy (like SureSmile, Invisalign, or other similar systems) and traditional braces both aim to correct malocclusions and misaligned teeth, but they have different advantages. Here are the benefits of clear aligner therapy over traditional braces:

1. Aesthetics: Clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them a more discreet option than metal braces, especially for adults and teens who may be self-conscious about the appearance of braces.
2. Removable: Unlike fixed braces, clear aligners can be taken out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, which allows for better oral hygiene and reduces the risk of decalcification and cavities that can sometimes occur with braces.
3. Comfort: Aligners are made of smooth plastic, so there’s less irritation to the cheeks and tongue compared to the brackets and wires of braces. Moreover, there are no metal parts to adjust, which can sometimes cause discomfort.
4. Predictability: With clear aligner therapy, the treatment process is computer-aided. The entire plan is mapped out in advance, and patients can often see a simulation of their final results before they start the treatment.
5. Fewer Office Visits: Since there are no wires to adjust, patients using clear aligners typically require fewer dental visits than those with traditional braces. This can be more convenient for those with busy schedules.
6. No Dietary Restrictions: With braces, there’s a list of foods you should avoid to prevent damaging the brackets or wires, such as popcorn, sticky candies, or hard foods. With clear aligners, since they’re removed while eating, there are no such restrictions.
7. Easier Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing can be more challenging with braces due to the brackets and wires. With aligners, patients can maintain their usual oral hygiene routine.
8. Safety in Sports: For those who play contact sports, clear aligners are a safer option since there’s no risk of brackets or wires causing injury to the mouth during physical activity. However, it’s still recommended to wear a mouthguard.
9. Less Risk of Emergency Visits: With traditional braces, there’s a risk of brackets breaking off or wires poking the cheeks, necessitating emergency dental visits. These issues are less common with clear aligners.
10. Custom Fit: Aligners are custom-made for each patient, ensuring a comfortable fit and targeted tooth movement.

However, it’s essential to note that while clear aligners offer numerous advantages, they may not be suitable for everyone. Some complex orthodontic cases might be better treated with traditional braces. It’s crucial to consult with a Burleson cosmetic dentist to determine the best treatment option for each individual’s needs.

The Typical Treatment Process

1. Consultation:
   • Schedule an initial consultation with a dental practice like Legacy Dental, which offers clear aligners in Burleson, TX.
   • Discuss your dental concerns and desired outcomes with our cosmetic dentists.
2. Diagnostic Records:
   • Dr. Magers or Dr. Barroso will take digital impressions of your teeth.
   • Photos and X-rays will be captured to get a comprehensive view of your dental structure.
3. Treatment Plan:
   • Using the SureSmile system, our Burleson dentists will design a personalized treatment plan, often aided by computer simulations to predict tooth movement. So you can get a preview of your new smile before you’ve even gotten started!
   • Review the proposed treatment plan, including the estimated duration and expected outcome.
4. Fabrication:
   • Once the plan is approved, the digital design is sent to a lab where your custom clear aligners are fabricated using SureSmile technology.
5. Fitting Session:
   • Once the aligners are ready, you’ll have a fitting session with our dentists.
   • Your dentist will ensure the first set fits correctly and will provide instructions on wear time (typically 20-22 hours a day).
6. Regular Check-ups:
   • Schedule regular appointments (usually every 6-8 weeks) to monitor progress.
   • Receive new sets of aligners at each visit, progressively moving your teeth to the desired position.
7. Compliance:
   • Wear the aligners consistently, only removing them for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.
   • Follow the dentist’s instructions on how often to switch to the next set of aligners.
8. Completion:
   • Once you’ve progressed through all aligner sets and the desired results are achieved, the active phase of treatment is complete.
9. Retention:
   • To maintain the results, you’ll be provided with retainers.
   • The orthodontist will guide you on how long to wear them, usually full-time initially, then only at night.
10. Follow-up Visits:
    • Continue to visit your orthodontist periodically to ensure your teeth remain in their new position and to address any other dental concerns.

Remember, individual experiences may vary, and not every step may apply to all patients seeking clear aligners in Burleson, TX. Always consult with your local cosmetic dentist for detailed information and personalized advice.

What Happens Post-Treatment?

As with any orthodontic treatment, once finished, you’ll need a maintenance regimen. This step prevents your teeth from shifting back. The orthodontic process is a big commitment, so you’ll want to protect your investments by wearing a retainer.

These clear plastic trays look much like the clear aligners do. Retainers are comfortable and removable yet extremely durable – providing reliable results.

Are Clear Aligners Right For You?

In general, clear aligners can be used to treat the same orthodontic issues that are normally managed with braces, as long as the case isn’t extremely complex. Our Burleson dental experts may recommend clear aligners to correct teeth that are slightly crowded, crooked, or gapped. Certain problems with the bite, such as an overbite, open bite, underbite, or crossbite, can also be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

During your initial consultation, we will determine whether you’re a candidate for clear aligners. This treatment is often a great choice for adult patients and others who are interested in a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment. In addition to being discreet, these aligners are also very comfortable because they are made from smooth, thin plastic without any fixed metal appliances.

Perfect Your Smile With Clear Aligners in Burleson, TX!

Tired of hiding your smile? Our cosmetic dentists in Burleson can’t wait to help you achieve a straighter, more confident smile through cutting-edge clear aligner therapy. Schedule your initial consult today and start the journey toward a beautiful, healthy smile!

In the meantime, please visit our SureSmile FAQ page to learn more about clear aligners in Burleson, TX, and the revolutionary SureSmile system.