ClearCorrect Aligners
Menasha, WI
Your teeth are an integral component of your mouth, enabling you to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Crooked teeth are a serious issue that affects many aspects of your life and leaves you vulnerable to more oral health concerns. For decades, the only solution for correcting crooked teeth was metal braces. Today, Mid Valley Dental provides an invisible alternative with ClearCorrect clear braces.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces have long been the only treatment available for correcting alignment issues. Braces are highly effective, and still a very popular treatment today. They are often associated with adolescents, usually between the ages of 11 and 13, but adults can wear braces, too. Braces use metal brackets and wires to straighten your teeth, which are fixed in place throughout the duration of your treatment. Brackets are bonded to each tooth, and a metal wire spans each arch, affixed to the brackets with elastic O-rings.
While effective, braces do have a few significant drawbacks. One of the biggest issues with metal braces is that they are highly noticeable, which can cause embarrassment, particularly for older patients. Because braces are fixed, they can also make eating and oral hygiene more difficult. Certain types of foods can cause brackets to dislodge and wires to bend or break. Cleaning around brackets can be challenging, increasing your risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and decalcification. Brackets and wires can also cause painful sores on your soft tissues.
What is ClearCorrect?
ClearCorrect is a treatment that offers a more aesthetic alternative to traditional braces. Rather than brackets and wires, ClearCorrect uses clear plastic aligners to correct the alignment of your teeth. The aligners, which fit over your teeth much like a mouthguard, are clear and disappear completely from view when set in place.
Another major difference between ClearCorrect and traditional braces is that ClearCorrect aligners are removable. They can, and should, only be taken out to eat and to brush your teeth. To achieve the greatest results in the shortest amount of time, it is important that you wear them for 20 to 22 hours every day.
How Exactly Does ClearCorrect Work?
ClearCorrect aligners are custom created just for you based on digital impressions of your mouth. With these impressions, we can see every step of your treatment from beginning to end. During your treatment, you use a series of aligners. Each set is designed to help gradually shift your teeth where they need to be. They are meant to be worn only for two weeks at a time. Once your treatment is complete, you are provided with a retainer, which will help you to maintain your beautiful new smile.
The Benefits of ClearCorrect Clear Braces
ClearCorrect provides you with several benefits. These benefits include:
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Invisible treatment. When your aligners are placed on your teeth, they completely disappear from view. People will pay attention to you rather than the shiny metal in your mouth.
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Removable. Your aligners can be taken out whenever necessary. They should only be removed, however, to eat and brush your teeth. You can eat all of your favorite foods, and you can brush and floss your teeth normally.
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Greater comfort. The aligners are smooth, and will not irritate your intraoral tissues.
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Fewer office visits.
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Shorter treatment times. |
FAQ's About ClearCorrect Aligners
How long does ClearCorrect treatment take?
The duration of ClearCorrect treatment depends on the complexity of the case. Most patients complete their treatment within 6 to 24 months. Your dentist will evaluate your specific alignment needs and provide a personalized timeline.
How often do I need to wear my ClearCorrect aligners?
For optimal results, ClearCorrect aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking (except water), and oral hygiene. Consistent wear is crucial to keeping your treatment on track.
Can I eat and drink while wearing ClearCorrect aligners?
No, ClearCorrect aligners should be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and damage. After meals, brushing before reinserting the aligners helps maintain oral hygiene.
How do I clean my ClearCorrect aligners?
Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and gently brush them with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. You can also use ClearCorrect cleaning tablets or mild soap for a deeper clean.
Will ClearCorrect affect my speech?
Some patients may notice a slight lisp when first wearing ClearCorrect aligners, but this typically resolves as the tongue adjusts. Practicing speaking with the aligners in can help speed up the adaptation process.
How often do I need to visit the dentist during ClearCorrect treatment?
Most patients need check-ups every six to eight weeks to ensure their treatment is progressing properly. These visits allow the dentist to assess progress and provide new aligners as needed.
What if I lose or damage a ClearCorrect aligner?
If you lose or break an aligner, contact your dentist right away. Depending on your treatment stage, you may need to wear your previous aligner, move to the next set, or get a replacement to avoid delays.
Can I whiten my teeth while using ClearCorrect?
Yes, since ClearCorrect aligners are removable, you can use whitening toothpaste or professional whitening treatments during your orthodontic journey. Some patients even apply whitening gel inside their aligners, but consult your dentist before doing so.
How much does ClearCorrect cost?
The cost of ClearCorrect varies depending on the complexity of your case and treatment length. Your dentist will provide a personalized estimate and discuss financing options during your consultation.
Does insurance cover ClearCorrect treatment?
Some dental insurance plans offer coverage for ClearCorrect treatment, similar to other orthodontic procedures. Coverage depends on your provider and plan, so it’s best to check with your insurance company or ask our office for assistance.
Schedule with Your Menasha Dentist Today!
If your teeth are crooked, but you are not very fond of the idea of straightening your teeth with traditional braces, ClearCorrect may be the right solution for you. Call Mid Valley Dental at (920) 215-4160 today to schedule your consultation.
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