When you see someone wearing clear aligners, have you ever wondered what the process looks like to get them to look so natural? Today, Beam Orthodontics will answer this question: What is the process for getting fitted for custom aligners?
What Are They?
Clear aligners are a wonderful, less visible alternative to traditional braces, used to correct misalignment in the teeth of patients of all ages, even kids aged 7-10. In our office, we offer Invisalign and Spark aligners!
How We Make Them
Processes such as Invisalign and Spark follow a comparable fitting and manufacturing procedure. The significant contrast between these and DIY home kits lies in our professional monitoring and ability to achieve exceptional precision. Here’s an overview of the process:
- Consultation: Dr. Paxon will conduct an initial free consultation to kickstart your chosen treatment. During this meeting, we’ll assess your teeth, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if this option is suitable for you.
- Digital Scanning or Impressions: Instead of messy putty, we utilize digital scanning technology to create precise 3D models of your teeth and gums. This enables us to capture all the nuances of your individual dental anatomy accurately.
- Treatment Planning: Our doctors will use specialized software to digitally manipulate your teeth into the desired positions. This process serves as a virtual blueprint for crafting your custom aligners.
- Fabrication: Once the treatment plan is finalized, the digital models are used to manufacture a series of custom clear aligners. These aligners are crafted using advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, typically from lightweight and durable BPA-free plastic.
- Aligner Trimming: After fabrication, each aligner undergoes trimming to ensure smooth edges and a comfortable fit. This step helps prevent irritation to your gums and oral tissues during wear.
- Quality Control: Aligners undergo rigorous quality checks at the lab to ensure accuracy and consistency. This involves verifying that each aligner matches the digital treatment plan precisely.
- Fitting: Upon completion, you’ll return to our office to receive your first set of aligners. We’ll ensure they fit properly and provide instructions on how to wear and care for them effectively.
- Treatment Progression: Throughout the treatment process, you’ll wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks, gradually shifting your teeth closer to their desired positions. Regular appointments with us allow for adjustments as needed along the way.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
If you’re undecided about clear aligners, we’d like to share some insights that could help steer you in the right direction. There are numerous advantages to this approach:
- Discreet Appearance: Clear aligners are virtually invisible when worn, offering a significant advantage for individuals who desire orthodontic treatment without the noticeable presence of braces. This can be a highlight for those in school or in a professional setting where they would prefer a more subtle effect.
- Comfortable: Through our meticulous customization, discomfort is minimized. While there may be initial adjustment, any discomfort is typically short-lived and easily manageable. We always encourage our patients to contact us if there is any unusual or persistent discomfort. In some cases, it can be as easy as making a slight adjustment to a sharp edge on an aligner.
- Removable: Clear aligners can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene maintenance compared to traditional braces. The alternative can cause some challenges with cleaning due to being made up of so many small parts, which can easily trap food.
- Predictable Results: Advanced 3D scanning technology enables us to visualize and illustrate your expected results with remarkable accuracy. The absence of wires and brackets allows for a more gradual and tangible progression towards your desired outcome.
- Versatility: Clear aligners like Invisalign and Spark are highly versatile and effective in addressing a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, and gaps between teeth. Whether your concerns are mild or more complex, Dr. Paxon can explain why this option may be the most suitable for you.
Just remember: Even if it’s decided that clear aligners aren’t an optimal choice for you or your child, we have plenty of other routes we can take to solve orthodontic issues. So don’t be discouraged!
Making Way for a New Smile!
We hope this blog has provided clarity on common questions about clear aligner treatment and the process of creating the aligners. Our team of professionals is dedicated to guiding you through your treatment plan and ensuring optimal results. For inquiries, feel free to reach out to our Penticton office at 778-404-7709 or our West Kelowna office at 250-768-5573.
