When you’re beginning any new process, you always want to try to start off on the right foot. Clear aligners are no exceptions to this—in fact, Beim Orthodontics wants our patients to be totally comfortable as they jump in. We’re going to tell you what to expect when you start clear aligners, and give you some tips to help out.
The Pros of Clear Aligners
We proudly offer Spark clear aligners at Beim Orthodontics, which is an excellent option for our teenage and adult patients. It’s common for people to be curious about the benefits of clear aligners over other routes for their treatment—so let’s go over a few!
- Practically Invisible: Made from transparent plastic, clear aligners are almost invisible, making them the ultimate choice for anyone seeking an appliance that looks totally natural.
- Removability: Unlike permanently affixed braces, your clear aligners can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing. This flexibility means you won’t have any dietary restrictions, and that you might have an easier time taking care of your teeth.
- Comfortable Fit: The aligners are fabricated just for your smile—and they slip over your teeth as smoothly as a pair of socks! This tends to give patients a more comfortable experience overall.
- Fewer Office Visits: With no need for regular wire adjustments, clear aligners usually require fewer appointments with Dr. Beim in person, making them a convenient choice for those with busy schedules.
- Effective for Various Cases: Clear aligners are versatile and effective for many mild to moderate orthodontic needs, from tooth alignment to bite issues.
A Treat for Teens
In terms of why our teenage patients repeatedly opt for this treatment over others, there are many characteristics of clear aligners that suit their lifestyle:
- Fewer Emergencies: This can be important for student athletes, since clear aligners don’t have wires or brackets that can break or come loose, reducing the need for unexpected orthodontic visits for repairs.
- Photo-Friendly: Teens can take everyday selfies and official portraits for important events like graduation without being concerned about the look of their smile.
- A Clear Vision: One quality of clear aligners that patients love is that we can visualize their alignment step by step from day one to their final new smile. This can be valuable encouragement for a teenager who may be reluctant to get their smile treated.
Foolproof Tips
Dr. Beim has some tricks up his sleeve! For any orthodontic treatment, we’ll provide you with some ideas and behaviors to help make your life a whole lot easier. Remember to always ask us questions when you need additional guidance!
- Stay on Schedule: Keep a clear, consistent timeline for switching to your next set of aligners. This typically happens every 1-2 weeks, but following our team’s specific guidance is key. It can be very helpful to set reminders on your phone or calendar to ensure timely changes. Missing these dates or putting them off will definitely cause your treatment to stray off track.
- Monitor Progress: Document your progress by taking weekly selfies of your smile. This allows you to see the gradual changes of your shifting teeth and stay motivated! Comparing these photos to your starting point can make all of your hard effort feel worthwhile.
- Carry a Case: Always keep your aligners in their case when not in use to protect them from unwanted consequences—like germs, damage, or accidental loss. Leaving them out loose can lead to unnecessary wear or the risk of pets or children accidentally damaging them.
- Avoid Staining: Due to their material, clear aligners can easily pick up stains from beverages like coffee, tea, or red wine. If you drink these often, please take the extra step to take your aligners out first.
- Communicate Issues Promptly: If an aligner tray feels too tight, loose, or uncomfortable, reach out to Beim Orthodontics as soon as you can. Addressing fit issues right away can prevent treatment delays and guarantee your aligners are working as they should!
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking lots of water throughout the day helps flush out your mouth, keeping it clean and fresh while minimizing bacteria that can appear under your aligners. Consider keeping a reusable water cup on your person during the school or work day.
- Have a Tool Kit: A travel-sized care kit is always a great asset. It can include a protective case, cleaning supplies, and a spare aligner tray. You’ll be equipped to handle unexpected situations, like misplacing an aligner or needing a quick clean while on the go.
A Member of The Family
As we said—our team at Beim Orthodontics is always in your corner when you need advice! We want to stress that you should never be embarrassed to ask us a question or share a concern. We’re so excited to see you in our Lake Mary office!