Clear Aligners – What is the process?

The process of Clear Aligner treatment is fairly straightforward and stable due to the maturity of the technology.  We have the advantage of an in-house digital X-ray and Scanner so that we can provide a “one stop shop” for teeth measurements during the evaluation step.

1. Evaluation – Treatment is based on an exam, X-ray reviews, and an ortho-evaluation for the condition of one’s smile/bite. This is then followed up with the utilization of our office technology to obtain a clean digital scan with an advanced intra-oral camera that captures all the anatomical details and measurements of the dentition.
2. Simulation – All the data is compiled together for an orthodontic simulation of your best possible smile outcome.
3. Clear Aligner Fabricated – Once reviewed and finalized, the order goes into the lab for fabrication of custom crafted aligner tray series that fits the teeth like a thin, clear glove. The trays apply only a small fraction of a millimeter of movement at a time.
4. Wearing Clear Aligners– The sequential wear throughout the treatment corrects the smile/bite position like a slow animation over time.  Expect new aligners to be worn approximately every 3 weeks and the treatment to last approximately 6-18 months.  Your aligners will require daily cleaning usually right before bed with either soap and water or hydrogen peroxide and a little brushing.
5. In-Progress Corrections– Regular visits allow for us to track progress during the entire course of treatment and make modifications as needed.  New aligners are produced incrementally so that corrections can be made if necessary.