Clear Aligners in Fairhope

What are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are a modern and discreet approach to orthodontics, specifically designed to straighten your teeth without the traditional metal braces. These are virtually invisible, custom-made trays that snugly fit over your teeth. Made from clear, BPA-free plastic, they gently and gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Clear aligners, like Invisalign, offered by Living Oaks Dental in Fairhope, are a popular choice among adults and teens who want a more aesthetic and comfortable alternative to braces. They are removable, which means you can eat, drink, brush, and floss normally.

The Clear Aligners Treatment Process

The clear aligner treatment process is a comprehensive journey towards a more confident smile, involving a few key steps from consultation to completion.

Initial Consultation

The first step in the clear aligner treatment process is an initial consultation with Dr. Jeremy Mc Doniell or Dr. Gene Brabston at Living Oaks Dental. During this appointment, the dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, take necessary X-rays, and discuss your smile goals. They will determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for clear aligners, considering factors like the complexity of your case and your commitment to the treatment process. This is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have about the treatment, costs, and expected results.

Custom Treatment Plan

Once you’re deemed a suitable candidate for clear aligners, the next step is creating a custom treatment plan. This involves taking digital impressions of your teeth using advanced 3D imaging technology. These images are then used to map out a precise treatment plan, which shows the exact movements of your teeth and how long you will need to wear the aligners. The plan is sent to the Invisalign lab, where your series of custom aligners are created.

Wearing Your Aligners

The final step involves wearing your clear aligners as prescribed by your dentist. Typically, you’ll wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks, for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you progress through the series of aligners, your teeth gradually move into their correct positions. Regular check-ups at Living Oaks Dental ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.

The Clear Aligners Treatment Process

The clear aligner treatment process is a comprehensive journey towards a more confident smile, involving a few key steps from consultation to completion.

Initial Consultation

The first step in the clear aligner treatment process is an initial consultation with Dr. Jeremy Mc Doniell or Dr. Gene Brabston at Living Oaks Dental. During this appointment, the dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, take necessary X-rays, and discuss your smile goals. They will determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for clear aligners, considering factors like the complexity of your case and your commitment to the treatment process. This is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have about the treatment, costs, and expected results.

Custom Treatment Plan

Once you’re deemed a suitable candidate for clear aligners, the next step is creating a custom treatment plan. This involves taking digital impressions of your teeth using advanced 3D imaging technology. These images are then used to map out a precise treatment plan, which shows the exact movements of your teeth and how long you will need to wear the aligners. The plan is sent to the Invisalign lab, where your series of custom aligners are created.

Wearing Your Aligners

The final step involves wearing your clear aligners as prescribed by your dentist. Typically, you’ll wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks, for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you progress through the series of aligners, your teeth gradually move into their correct positions. Regular check-ups at Living Oaks Dental ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.

The Benefits Of Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer a plethora of benefits that make them a preferred choice for many patients seeking orthodontic treatment.

Aesthetically Pleasing

One of the primary benefits of clear aligners is their aesthetic appeal. They are virtually invisible, making them a discreet choice for adults and teens who feel self-conscious about wearing traditional metal braces. With clear aligners, you can straighten your teeth without anyone noticing.

Comfort and Convenience

Clear aligners are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and convenient. They are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, eliminating the discomfort of metal brackets and wires. Since they are removable, they offer the convenience of being able to eat and drink what you like without worrying about food getting stuck.

Improved Oral Hygiene

With clear aligners, maintaining good oral hygiene is a breeze. Since they are removable, you can continue your regular oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing as usual. This reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which can be a concern with traditional braces. Plus, the aligners are easy to clean, further promoting a healthy smile.