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It is best to start seeing an orthodontist at age 7 in order to begin monitoring loss of baby teeth and incoming permanent teeth. At this time orthodontists can recognize the potential need for treatment sometimes even starting preventative care.

Absolutely! Patients of any age can benefit from improved alignment and function. It's never too late to take care of your smile.

Teeth that are crowded can be difficult to clean adequately. This could lead to cavities and gum disease.

The length of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the patient. For many cases it can take 18-24 months however, more complex cases require increased time as treatment must be coordinated with other specialists. It is best to have an in-person evaluation to determine your specific needs.

Braces are a fixed appliance that cannot be removed by the patient. Patients are seen at the office frequently (every 6-8 weeks) for adjustments. Clear aligners are removable and rely heavily on patient compliance. Aligners are worn at least 22 hours per day to achieve ideal results. Individual trays are changed weekly, depending on the patient's prescription schedule. Patients wearing aligners still come into the office but may be seen less frequently.

Treatment cost varies depending on the patient. Patients must be seen for a clinical evaluation to determine what this cost entails.

Clear aligners can be used for a variety of treatment types however, more severe cases may necessitate the control provided by traditional brackets and wires.

Patients are typically seen on a 6-8 week frequency however, certain appliance adjustments may require sooner visits or can allow for more time between visits.

Please give our office a call or fill out the appointment request form found on our Contact Us page, and one of our staff members will schedule you for a complimentary consultation.

One of the primary benefits of clear aligners is their discreet appearance. Made from transparent, medical-grade plastic, they're near invisible when worn. Many people do not notice you're undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you tell them.

Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case and your compliance with wearing the aligners as directed. Treatment length is similar to traditional braces where most cases can take about 2 years, depending on how severe cases are at the start. During your consultation, we'll provide an estimated timeline specific to your needs.

Most patients experience mild discomfort or pressure for a few days when switching to a new set of aligners. This is a sign that the aligners are working to move your teeth. Any discomfort typically subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.

You'll need to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything besides room temperature water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners. After eating, brush your teeth or at least rinse before reinserting the aligners to maintain good oral hygiene.

For optimal results, clear aligners should be worn 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene routines.

If you lose or break an aligner, contact our office immediately. Depending on how long you've been wearing that particular set, we may advise you to move to the next set in your series or order a replacement. Never move backward to a previous set without consulting us first.

Clean your aligners daily by gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush, water and soap (or toothpaste). Avoid using hot water, which could warp the plastic. We also offer specialized cleaning products designed specifically for clear aligners.

Some patients experience a slight lisp when they first begin wearing clear aligners. This typically resolves within a few days as you adjust to wearing them.

Clear aligners can effectively treat many orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, and certain bite problems. However, they may not be suitable for extremely complex cases. During your consultation, we'll determine whether clear aligners are appropriate for your specific needs or if alternative treatments would better serve you.

After completing your clear aligner treatment, you'll need to wear retainers to maintain your results. Initially, you'll wear retainers full-time, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear only. Consistent retainer use is essential for preventing teeth from shifting back to their pre-treatment positions.