Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic appliance that is used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They are a popular alternative to traditional braces, as they are virtually invisible, removable, and can be more comfortable to wear. At Knoxville Orthodontics, we use Invisalign clear aligners made from a clear, BPA-free plastic material and custom-design them to fit each patient's teeth and mouth. The aligners are worn over the teeth and gradually shift them into position over time.

Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign aligners are a popular type of clear aligners that we use for straightening teeth. These clear aligners are made from a transparent material, making them practically invisible when worn. This means you can go about your daily life without feeling self-conscious about your smile!

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth without metal wires like metal braces or brackets. Using the digital model of your mouth, your provider will create a personalized treatment plan outlining the exact movements your teeth need to make to achieve your desired results. After treatment, you will also see a 3D representation of what your teeth will look like. Based on your treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners will be created for you to wear. Each set of aligners is designed to shift your teeth into their desired positions gradually. You will typically wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set.

You must visit your Invisalign provider periodically throughout your treatment to ensure your teeth move as planned. Your provider will evaluate your progress at these appointments and provide you with the next aligners. You must wear your aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours daily to achieve the best results Call us to learn more.

The Procedure for Clear Aligners/ Invisalign Treatment 

During the initial visit, the orthodontist will evaluate the patient's teeth and determine if clear aligners are the right option for their specific orthodontic needs. If clear aligners are recommended, the orthodontist will take digital impressions of the patient's teeth, which will be used to create a 3D model of their mouth. The orthodontist will then use this model to develop a customized treatment plan that outlines the exact movements of the teeth and the length of the treatment. The aligners are typically made from a clear, BPA-free plastic material and are custom-designed to fit snugly over the patient's teeth.

The patient will receive a series of aligners, each worn for two weeks. The aligners apply gentle pressure to the teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position. The patient must wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily, removing them only for eating, brushing, and flossing. The patient must visit our orthodontist every six to eight weeks for a progress check. At these appointments, the orthodontist will evaluate the patient's progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Once the treatment is complete, the patient will have achieved the desired result, with teeth that are straighter and in proper alignment. At this point, the patient may be given a retainer to wear at night to help maintain the new position of their teeth.

The Advantages of Clear Aligners/ Invisalign

• They are nearly invisible, making them a more discreet option than traditional braces.
• They are removable, which allows for easier cleaning and maintenance of oral hygiene. 
• They can be more comfortable to wear than traditional braces, as they do not have wires or brackets that can irritate the mouth.
• They can be removed before meals, so you can eat whatever you like without worrying about food getting trapped between your teeth and the orthodontic appliance.
• They are customized to fit your mouth and teeth perfectly for a comfortable fit throughout treatment. 
• The average length of treatment with clear aligners is about one year compared to anywhere from one to three years with traditional braces.

Who Can Benefit From Clear Aligners?

Starting with the pre-teen age group, these innovative aligners offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. For youngsters navigating the tumultuous years of adolescence, clear aligners provide an opportunity for self-expression without compromising their confidence or social interactions. Moving on to the teen age group, clear aligner treatment becomes even more beneficial as it addresses not only cosmetic concerns but also functional issues related to misaligned teeth. Finally, adults who might have neglected their dental health during earlier stages of life can benefit greatly from clear aligner treatment options tailored specifically for them.

Clear aligners and Invisalign are often recommended for mild to moderate orthodontic problems, such as crowding, spacing, and minor bite issues. To learn more about the benefits of clear aligners, visit the best  orthodontist in Knoxville, TN - Knoxville Orthodontics at one of our three convenient locations in Knoxville, Tennessee, or call (865) 522-7572.