Over a million patients worldwide have used the clear aligner systems to straighten their smiles. Patients at Apex Dental have the option of easily and comfortably straightening their teeth with clear aligners or invisible braces in Northborough, MA. Our dental technology allows us to provide this treatment to patients.
Straight and properly aligned teeth are key components of a properly functioning and good-looking smile. Clear aligner systems are a modern dental solution that uses a series of virtually invisible aligners to gradually shift your teeth into place.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a modern, comfortable way to straighten your teeth without the hassle of traditional metal braces. They’re designed to fit easily into your everyday life, making orthodontic treatment more convenient than ever.
One of the biggest advantages of clear aligners is that they’re removable. This means you can take them out when you eat or drink, so you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about damaging your orthodontic appliance. Because they’re not fixed in place, you can also brush and floss your teeth just like you normally would to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout your treatment.
Clear aligners are also made from a thin, clear material that’s barely noticeable when worn. Most people won’t even realize you have them on, so you can smile and talk with confidence during your treatment.
If you need mild to moderate orthodontic care, clear aligner therapy could be a great option. Dr. Gauthier will evaluate your smile and create a customized treatment plan designed to give you the results you’ve always wanted.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is the most popular clear aligner system that we offer at Apex Dental. Treatment with Invisalign begins with Dr. Gauthier. He’ll take X-rays of your mouth to determine if you’re a good candidate for treatment. If you have mild to moderate orthodontic problems, Dr. Gauthier will recommend Invisalign to you.
At your next visit, he’ll take dental impressions, which he sends to a lab. Lab technicians will create your aligners from durable plastic material. Once completed, you’ll return to Apex Dental for your first sets of aligners. You need to wear your aligners daily until you complete treatment.
Clear Aligner FAQs
Do you want to know more about treatment? We can help. Learn more with answers to common questions about clear aligners in our Northborough, MA, dental office.
How long does it take to complete clear aligners treatment?
The length of clear aligner treatment can vary depending on how much your teeth need to be moved. On average, it takes about 6 to 18 months to complete the treatment. But our dentist will give you a more specific timeline based on your needs.
How long should I wear my aligners each day?
You should wear your clear aligners for about 20 to 22 hours a day. This means you only take them out to eat, drink (anything other than water), or clean your teeth. The more consistently you wear your aligners, the faster you’ll see results.
Can I remove my aligners for special events?
Yes, you can remove your clear aligners for special events like parties, photos, or meetings. However, don’t to leave them out for too long. The goal is to wear them as much as possible, so make sure to put them back in as soon as you can. If you wear them less than recommended, it may slow down your progress.
Will I need to wear a retainer after I complete treatment with clear aligners?
Yes, after you finish your clear aligner treatment, you will need to wear a retainer. The retainer helps keep your teeth in their new positions. Without a retainer, your teeth may slowly shift back to their original position. Your dentist will give you instructions on when and how often to wear your retainer.
What happens if I break one of my clear aligners?
If you break one of your clear aligners, contact your dentist or orthodontist right away. They can help you get a replacement. In the meantime, try wearing the previous aligner if you still have it, until you can get a new one. It’s important not to skip wearing your aligners, as this could delay your treatment.
Are clear aligners right for me?
Clear aligners might be right for you if you have mild to moderate teeth alignment issues, like crooked or spaced-out teeth. They are a great option if you want a more discreet way to straighten your teeth. But braces might be a better choice if you have more complex dental issues. Talk to Dr. Gauthier to know for sure. He can help decide if clear aligners are the right treatment for your smile.
Can I play sports or musical instruments while wearing clear aligners?
If you’re playing a contact sport, wear a mouthguard over your aligners to protect both your teeth and the aligners. Clear aligners are comfortable, but they can get damaged if hit hard. You can wear your aligners without any problems for non-contact sports. Still, make sure to keep them in a safe place when you’re not wearing them.
If you play a wind instrument, you can still play while wearing clear aligners. It might feel a bit different at first, but most people get used to it. We recommend removing the aligners for other instruments.
Can I chew gum while wearing aligners?
No, it’s not a good idea to chew gum while wearing clear aligners. Chewing gum can stick to the aligners and damage them. It can also cause the gum to get trapped between the aligners and your teeth, making it harder to clean your aligners properly.
If you want to chew gum, it’s best to remove your aligners first. Just remember to put them back in as soon as you’re done so that you stay on track with your treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Gauthier can help you straighten crooked and misaligned teeth today. Please call (508) 506-1691 if you’re interested in learning more about cosmetic dentistry in Westborough, MA, Northborough, MA, and Shrewsbury, MA area. You can also request an appointment with us online.