ClearCorrect® Clear Aligners
A recent study revealed that 57 percent of Americans cover their mouths when they laugh due to insecurity over their teeth — and one in two will often try to smile with their mouth closed.
It’s not surprising, then, that so many people are looking for ways to improve their smiles. If you are considering orthodontic treatment to help you achieve a straighter, more confident smile, then clear aligners are the answer!
Everyone’s smile is unique, so we create a custom orthodontic treatment plan for each patient. If you’re looking for ClearCorrect in San Francisco, contact Young Dental SF group at (415) 392-8611 or complete the online booking form.
The Benefit of Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces
Clear aligners are a popular choice because they are practically invisible.
The smooth plastic won’t rub or irritate your gums and cheeks as traditional metal braces can, making them a more comfortable alternative. The aligners are removable, so you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss.
This also means no food restrictions — you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about damaging braces.
Many braces patients also struggle with having food stuck in their brackets after every meal, which can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and frustrating. This isn’t a problem for aligner wearers!
Another benefit is the time you can save. Fewer appointments with the dentist are required compared to braces adjustments. In between visits, you simply switch to a new set of aligners every two to three weeks as your teeth gradually shift into place.
| Aspect | ClearCorrect | Traditional Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Transparent, less noticeable | Visible metal brackets and wires |
| Comfort | Smooth edges, custom fit | May cause discomfort and sores |
| Maintenance | Removable, requires cleaning | Fixed, requires careful cleaning |
| Dietary Restrictions | No restrictions | Avoid sticky and hard foods |
| Dentist Visits | Fewer, with home adjustments | Frequent for tightening |
| Treatment Duration | Typically 6–18 months | Typically 18–24 months or longer |
| Cost | Varies, often similar to braces | Varies, often similar to aligners |
| Suitability for Complex Cases | Limited | Suitable |
This table compares clear aligners with traditional braces in eight key areas.
What is ClearCorrect?
ClearCorrect aligner treatment is a system of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth into their desired position.
Each set of aligners is worn for a few weeks and then replaced with the next in the series until your teeth are aligned.
ClearCorrect is used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Normal overbite or underbite
- Crossbite
- Deep bites
- Open bites
How Do the Aligners Work?
Your dentist will take digital impressions of your teeth and use them to create a 3D model of your mouth.
This will help the dentist plan out your treatment, showing you how your teeth are expected to move over time. These images will be sent to ClearCorrect where your custom-made aligners will be fabricated.
Your dentist will want to see you every six to ten weeks. You will be given enough aligner trays to last until your next visit.
Each set of aligners will move your teeth slightly until they eventually reach their desired position. You will wear a new set of aligners for two to three weeks per step before moving on to the next.
You will need to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours per day, only taking them out to eat, brush, and floss. If you do not wear your aligners for the recommended 22 hours daily, your treatment time will take longer.
Another situation that could extend your treatment time is if your dentist decides you need refinement aligners. This will be the case if your teeth haven’t moved as much as expected..
These final few aligners help to fine-tune your smile and ensure that your teeth are in their desired position. Your dentist will rescan your teeth and make a refinement plan. The length of this additional plan will vary.
Treatment Duration
The length of treatment varies patient to patient and will depend on the severity of your case.
On average, ClearCorrect patients finish treatment within 12 to 18 months. However, it could be as short as six months or longer than 24 months.
The doctor will develop your plan and diagnosis with ClearCorrect and they will decide which option is best for you based on the complexity of your case.
Post-Treatment Care
You will need to wear a retainer after your treatment is finished.
This will ensure your teeth don’t shift back into their original position. You should expect to wear the retainer for at least 22 hours a day for the first six months.
After that, you can gradually reduce the amount of time you wear it. You will need to wear the retainer for life, but you can expect to only wear it at night after the first year.
Taking Care of Your Aligners
Aligners require more care than traditional braces.
Here are a few things you will need to keep in mind if you are considering aligners over traditional braces:
- You will need to remove your aligners before eating and drinking anything other than water. This is because food particles can get stuck in between the aligners and your teeth, leading to decay or staining.
- Brush and floss your teeth after every meal before putting your aligners back in. This will help prevent plaque buildup, which can also lead to decay.
- Clean your aligners daily by rinsing them with lukewarm water and using a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove any debris or buildup. Do not use hot water, as it can warp the plastic of the aligner.
- Store your aligners in their case when not in use and keep them away from heat or direct sunlight. This will help prevent warping or discoloration.
Importance of Oral Hygiene with Clear Aligners
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is very important while using clear aligners.
Here are a few things you will need to keep in mind:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after every meal. This will help remove any food particles that may be stuck between the aligners and your teeth.
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse your mouth after brushing. This can help eliminate bacteria and keep your aligners clean.
- Floss daily to remove plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups to ensure proper oral health during treatment.
By following these steps, you can ensure that both your teeth and aligners stay clean and healthy throughout your ClearCorrect treatment.
Achieve a Beautiful Smile Today!
If you are ready for straighter teeth and a more confident smile, schedule an appointment with our clear aligner specialists at Young Dental SF Group. Call (415) 392-8611 to book an appointment or complete the online booking form.
We look forward to meeting you!
FAQ
This is a common question and the answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. Clear aligners offer benefits such as being practically invisible, more comfortable, and removable for easier eating and cleaning.
For clear aligners to be successful, they must be worn at least 22 hours a day, so they require a certain level of responsibility and discipline from the patient.
Braces, on the other hand, are fixed and cannot be removed by the patient. They may be a better option for patients that need more extensive treatment or have difficulty committing to wearing aligners for the recommended amount of time.
Both ClearCorrect and Invisalign are clear aligner systems that achieve similar results. The main difference is the company that produces them. Clear Correct is owned by Strauman and is one of the largest CAD CAM companies in the world.
For treatment costs and duration each person is different. It’s important to have a consult and plan to determine which option is the best for you.
The length of treatment depends on the severity of your case and the recommended treatment plan. On average, patients finish treatment within 12 to 18 months. However, it could be as short as six months or as long as 24 months.
Yes, ClearCorrect aligners are FDA-approved and free of BPA’s (bisphenol-A).
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