How Do Aligners Work?

Jan 12, 2024 | Dental Care | 0 comments

If you’re looking for ways to feel more confident in your smile but aren’t sold on traditional braces, aligners may be the solution you’re looking for. 

How do aligners work? Invisible aligners are a discrete approach to straightening teeth. Rather than dealing with the hassle of metal braces, enjoy a subtle way of accomplishing your goals of a healthier mouth and a brighter smile. 

With more than 16 million people across the U.S. using some form of clear aligners to improve their dental health and aesthetics, you’d be joining a growing list of patients who are taking advantage of the many benefits they offer. 

The 5-Step Process of How Aligners Work

Clear aligners work to straighten teeth and treat bite issues that impact a patient’s health and comfort. Unlike braces, this tool is removable and barely visible to others. 

Getting clear aligners for your teeth is relatively straightforward. When taking the first step to getting your new smile, here are a few things you can expect from the process: 

  1. Your dental care provider takes a 3D image of your teeth or bite impressions before creating a mold for your first aligner.  
  2. After evaluating the impressions or images, your dental healthcare provider customizes a series of aligners that you swap over time. 
  3. In some cases, you receive aligners to prepare for your long-term teeth correction.
  4. Aligners are usually worn for two weeks and then replaced with the next set over the course of a minimum of 6 months. 
  5. Once you complete your treatment with your aligners, your provider will give you a retainer to wear for a set amount of time. 

Every smile is different, so be sure to ask what they recommend for you. Most patients need six months of consistent retainer usage after their aligner period finishes. 

Why Do Patients Love Clear Aligners? 

Depending on the patient’s needs, their experience will vary with what aspects make the process enjoyable. Three reasons patients love their aligners include: 

Oral Hygiene 

Traditional braces make it more difficult to brush and floss your teeth and can often be painful. Braces also tend to have more food and drink restrictions for patients, while aligners are easy to remove and put back in place. 

Fewer Appointments 

Due to the lower chances of emergency fixes, most aligner users require fewer appointments throughout their treatment. 

Private Experience With the Same Quality 

Whether your teen feels embarrassed about needing braces or you are a working professional who wants less hassle, aligners offer an effective solution. 

How Much Do Aligners Cost? 

The prices for your treatment will vary based on a variety of factors, such as: 

  • Personal dental health 
  • Longevity of treatment 
  • Financial plans 
  • Availability of required materials 

Full Heart Dentistry: Your SureSmile Solution 

Patients across Rochester, New York, and its surrounding areas put their trust in the experienced Full Heart Dentistry team. As SureSmile partners, we provide the best care and quality from your initial consultation through post-treatment follow-ups. 

How Do Aligners Work? Full Heart Has Your Answers 

With an emphasis on family, the Full Heart team works with patients of all ages and shares a goal of helping you feel confident in your smile. 
Schedule your appointment today to learn more.