Important Things to Know About This Alternative to Traditional Braces
ClearCorrect is a tooth alignment system that takes the place of traditional braces. The system is available to dentists or orthodontists who are certified to recommend it to their patients, but before you opt to try ClearCorrect aligners, you might have some questions.
How does ClearCorrect differ from regular metal braces?
Traditional metal braces are attached to the teeth, adjusted periodically by an orthodontist, stay in place until your treatment is complete, and can affect patients’ ability to eat, speak, and brush their teeth. ClearCorrect works through the use of a series of clear, custom-made, and removable aligners that move the teeth very gradually throughout various stages of therapy.
During each phase, a new set of aligners will be worn for three weeks at a time. The aligners remain on the teeth except while eating, drinking, and brushing the teeth. The aligners are barely noticeable, cause little or no adjustment discomfort, and have a very minimal if any impact on your daily routine.
Who can benefit from this system?
ClearCorrect is useful to treat teenagers as well as adults with the following dental conditions:
- Crowded teeth
- Spaces between teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crooked teeth
Children who do not yet have all of their molars and senior citizens with complicated dental issues might also be candidates for the system, so a consultation with Dr. Katende will be required.
How does the process work?
Dr. Katende will send a prescription and your dental records — including impressions, photos, and radiographs — to the ClearCorrect laboratory, where a 3-D model of your teeth will be made. Once the model has been created, a treatment plan will be prepared, illustrating how your teeth will be transformed. You will receive a “treatment setup” via email and will be able to either approve it or request changes. Once your plan is complete, the aligners will be created.
How long will it take?
Treatment for moderate cases typically requires 32 steps delivered in eight phases, while minor cases may need 12 steps of treatment delivered in three phases. Treatment time with ClearCorrect averages between one to two years, depending on the specific condition and degree of correction required.
Subtle changes will be noticeable each time you change to a new aligner set, and frequent checkups with your dentist will be necessary to get your new set of aligners as well as to monitor your progress. A clear retainer will be prescribed at the conclusion of treatment to keep your teeth in place.
How much will all this cost?
The cost will vary according to the treatment option that you choose:
- Limited 6: A set of six aligners suitable for minor adjustments.
- Limited 12: A set of 12 aligners for more complex adjustments.
- Unlimited: One flat fee that covers as many aligners deemed necessary.
The unlimited option is typically the costliest, and could last as long as three years. Some dental insurance plans will cover orthodontic devices and could pay for a portion of ClearCorrect treatment.
As your Harker Heights dentistry practice, we can help you determine whether ClearCorrect is the right treatment option for you. Please contact us anytime with questions about this service.
