Clear Aligners in Dunn, NC
Your Clear Path to a Straighter Smile
Clear aligners are the top alternative to traditional braces at Skyblue Orthodontics. Dr. Barnes is proud to offer this innovative solution to straightening smiles at our Dunn office.
Custom Clear Aligners for Your Smile
At Skyblue Orthodontics, we're proud to offer clear aligners, an alternative to braces that help you get a straighter smile without metal brackets and wires. Whether you are a teen or an adult with orthodontic issues, clear aligners can conveniently help you get the smile of your dreams.
These removable, clear aligners are a convenient way to straighten your smile without any appliances attached to your teeth. The customized trays apply constant pressure to your teeth, similar to braces, but you can take them out to eat or drink or for special occasions.
The Clear Aligner Process
Dr. Barnes customizes your treatment plan to your unique needs. However, there are some general steps you can expect your treatment process to follow:
- Step 1: A free consultation with a comprehensive orthodontic exam, a 3D scan of your teeth and bite, digital X-rays, and intra-oral photos.
- Step 2: We'll use our records to diagnose any orthodontic conditions you may have.
- Step 3: Using the 3D computer model, we'll create custom-made aligners to fit your teeth and bite.
- Step 4: You'll wear each pair of aligners for two weeks before moving onto a new set, moving closer to your ideal smile each time.
- Step 5: Once you use your last set of aligners, it is time to show off your new smile! You will get removable retainers to hold your results in place.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Clear aligners are nearly invisible, so you'll feel confident smiling throughout treatment.
- No Food Restrictions: Since you can remove your aligners during meals, you can eat whatever you want.
- Better Oral Hygiene: Flossing and cleaning those hard-to-get places is no problem since there aren't any additional spaces to worry about.
At Skyblue Orthodontics, we want our teen patients to be excited about starting their journey toward straighter teeth; clear aligners make that happen.
Whether you're a musician, an athlete, a performer, a class president, or anything else, you'll be able to participate in all your activities without the barrier that traditional braces might present.
And, since clear aligners are made of clear plastic and almost invisible, your friends probably won't even know you're wearing them.
Clear aligner therapy helps teens focus on doing what they do best—being their confident selves. At your first free consultation with Dr. Barnes, you'll learn if clear aligners are a good fit for your teen.
Differences Between Braces & Aligners
There's a lot to consider when it comes to clear aligner therapy. Most patients at Skyblue Orthodontics enjoy shorter check-ups, fewer appointments, simpler oral hygiene, and fewer emergency visits.
However, it's important to prepare for the additional responsibilities of wearing clear aligners. You have to remember to wear your trays and keep them clean.
Since they're removable, leaving them out for a while can be tempting. But following the guidelines from Dr. Barnes is the only way to reach your smile goals.
Like traditional metal braces, Dr. Barnes recommends wearing a retainer after your clear aligner treatment to maintain your new alignment and confident new smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear aligners are modern orthodontic appliances made of transparent, plastic material designed to adjust teeth alignment and improve oral health. They offer a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces, allowing patients to correct their smiles discreetly.
Clear aligners work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position over time. Each set of aligners is slightly different, guiding the teeth into alignment. Our orthodontist in Dunn, NC, would typically change the aligners every few weeks to continue the teeth's movement toward their ideal placement.
To clean aligners, it's recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water, avoiding hot water as it can warp the plastic. Non-abrasive, clear liquid soap can be used for a deeper clean. Dr. Barnes often advises patients against using colored or scented soaps to prevent staining or leaving a residue on the aligners. In addition, you can use denture cleaner or specialized cleaning crystals to soak the trays in weekly. You should also regularly wash your aligner case to prevent bacteria building up and making its way into your mouth.
With advancements in technology, clear aligners can now work just as effectively as braces for most orthodontic issues. Their big drawcards are their aesthetic and comfort advantages, being nearly invisible and removable for eating and cleaning. They often shift teeth into position faster than braces, with the average treatment time being 9 months but the range being anywhere from 6 to 18 months. Clear aligners are not recommended for children so if your child needs orthodontic treatment, we’d likely recommend braces unless they are over 13 and can commit to wearing the aligners for 22 hours a day.
Clear aligners can indeed fix an overbite, along with other dental issues such as underbites, crossbites, gaps, and crowded teeth.
Insurance coverage varies by plan and provider. Some dental insurance plans do cover a portion of the cost for clear aligners, similar to traditional braces. It's important to consult with our front office or your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
While clear aligners can cause some discomfort or pressure as the teeth begin to move, they are generally not considered painful. This discomfort is usually most noticeable when a new set of aligners is first worn and typically subsides after a few days.
At Skyblue Orthodontics, we are proud to offer a selection of top clear aligner brands, each with distinct features and benefits to cater to various orthodontic needs:
- Spark Aligners: Spark stands out for its use of the latest technology in clear aligners. They're known for being exceptionally clear, making them less noticeable compared to other brands. Spark aligners are also praised for their precise fit and comfort, due to the TruGEN™ material that not only optimizes tooth movement but also maintains these properties throughout the treatment, offering a more comfortable and effective solution.
- Angel Aligners: Angel Aligners focus on providing a customized treatment experience, using advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure a snug, personalized fit. They are designed to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from simple to more complex cases. Angel Aligners are appreciated for their flexibility and durability, making them a robust choice for patients seeking a balance between comfort and effectiveness.
- 3M Clarity Aligners: 3M, a brand with a long history in dental and orthodontic innovations, offers Clarity Aligners that are known for their blend of effectiveness and aesthetics. These aligners use advanced material science to deliver a powerful, yet almost invisible orthodontic solution. 3M Clarity Aligners are designed to be both comfortable for the wearer and efficient in moving teeth into their desired position, catering to patients who prioritize both aesthetics and treatment outcomes.
Dr. Barnes and the team at Skyblue Orthodontics can guide you through the features of each of these brands, helping you choose the one that best fits your lifestyle, orthodontic needs, and personal preferences.
Opting for clear aligner therapy under the supervision of a qualified orthodontist in Dunn, NC, such as Dr. Barnes, ensures that patients receive expert care tailored to their unique orthodontic needs. Orthodontists specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. They have extensive training beyond dental school that focuses on these areas, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage complex orthodontic cases effectively.
Talk to Us About Clear Aligners
Clear aligner therapy is a great option for subtle, effective treatment. During your free consultation, Dr. Barnes can advise you about the best treatment options for your teeth, bite, and lifestyle.
Schedule your free consultation at our Dunn office to learn if clear aligners are right for you.
