Have You Heard of Clear Braces?
February 13, 2019
When you think about braces, you probably picture metal brackets and wires. While these traditional orthodontics do correct uneven smiles, we’re happy to offer our patients a more esthetically-pleasing alternative. With clear braces, we offer a system that improves smiles while remaining practically invisible. What should Kansas City, MO, residents know about clear braces?
The Benefits of Correcting Uneven Smiles
When a person has an uneven smile, then there are plenty of places for food particles to become trapped. Even when brushing and flossing, these areas can be hard to reach. As a result, the bits of food will be broken down by bacteria, a process that leads to plaque buildup and a greater risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In some cases, misalignment also put pressure on the jaw joints, making the risk of TMJ disorder and bruxism more likely. With these issues come painful symptoms, such as headaches and jaw pain. Finally, some people with uneven smiles may feel self-conscious, which impacts their social interactions and overall quality of life.
Creating Your Aligners
With clear aligners, we help address misalignment without resorting to metal braces. We begin by taking a series of detailed digital pictures of the teeth. These pictures help create a 3D digital impression of your smile, which will be used to create the aligners. Once created, the patient will wear a set of aligners for between 20 and 22 hours a day on average. If worn as prescribed, they should upgrade to the next set in about two weeks. Total treatment time varies, but is usually about a year. However, seeing optimal results means wearing them as the dentist prescribed!
Caring for Your Smile During Treatment
Did you know you can remove the aligners before you eat, so you don’t need to avoid certain foods during treatment? Well, you can also remove them before you brush and floss your teeth, which makes caring for your smile much easier than if you were wearing metal braces. Patients then enjoy reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease, as well as discoloration, during the treatment process. You will still see us periodically for checkups and visits as we monitor your progress and help you on the road toward a more even and healthy smile. If you have any questions about clear braces, or if you’re ready to undergo treatment, then contact our team today.
Ready for a Clear Braces?
We want to help you enjoy a straighter, healthier smile with our clear braces. To learn more about our approach to cosmetic dentistry, including our cosmetic orthodontics, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018. Let 2019 be the year you obtain a beautiful smile!