Adults sometimes skip orthodontics, believing they’re too old for treatment or will be stuck in metal braces for two years. But modern dentistry has changed all that.
Today, more and more adults are reconsidering their options thanks to discreet orthodontic systems like ClearCorrect and Invisalign.
Our Lodi and Elk Grove dentists are pleased to offer these clear aligner systems, and the team is always thrilled to see the before and after.
At Oak Tree Dentistry, nothing makes us happier than helping patients reach their smile goals.
Who Is a Candidate for ClearCorrect® or Invisalign®?
Ideally, patients who take excellent care of their smiles—visit the dentist regularly and enjoy healthy oral hygiene routines—are excellent candidates for clear orthodontic systems like Invisalign in Elk Grove or Lodi. Taking care of your smile in these ways typically means you have no underlying conditions that could prevent or delay orthodontic treatment.
To be sure, we schedule a consultation for you in our dental office. This visit includes an exam and x-rays, especially if you’re a new patient or haven’t visited us in a while. Your consultation is also an excellent opportunity to ask questions or share your concerns with the dentist.
Your consultation is a vital part of the orthodontic process. You’ll learn about candidacy, how long to wear your aligners, and whether you need pretreatments. We’ll also discuss the length of treatment and costs.
We may find that you’re an immediate orthodontics candidate or require pretreatments to make Invisalign or ClearCorrect a reality.
How Are Invisalign and ClearCorrect Different?
The lab creates ClearCorrect aligners from plastics, and the aligners are cut manually. Invisalign relies on thermoplastic or SmartTrak® technology to fabricate its aligners.
However, both systems are custom-crafted from direct impressions of your teeth and can bring your smile in line. It may be that one system is more suitable for you than the other, or one price point may be more attractive. Your dentist will share the finer details with you.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
If you’re a candidate for treatment, our Invisalign dentist in Lodi or Elk Grove takes impressions of your teeth and forwards the results to the respective labs for fabrication. The number of aligners you receive will last you throughout treatment if you change them according to your dentist’s instructions, usually every few weeks.
As you move through your supply of aligners, your teeth move closer and closer to the desired result.
You come in to see us periodically so we can mark your progress as “on track.”
At the end of treatment, your dentist gives you a retainer. This is like an aligner, but it is only worn at night. Retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions, preventing orthodontic relapse.
Benefits of Clear Braces in Lodi and Elk Grove
#1 Orthodontic Aligners Are Removable
Traditional braces are locked in place, and you must navigate the wires and brackets to clean your teeth thoroughly. You can’t eat certain foods because they can get stuck or even damage the orthodontic system.
Systems like Invisalign are removable. You can take them out temporarily to brush and floss and during meals.
#2 No Food Restrictions
As written, clear aligners are removable, which means no food restrictions. You can enjoy complex chewing and not spend a year or longer forgoing your favorite meal choices.
#3 Treatment Discretion
This is an essential benefit for most adults, especially those who work outside the home or anyone who may feel insecure about wearing metal braces at a later age. With Invisalign and ClearCorrect, people may not even notice you’re in treatment.
#4 Easier Oral Hygiene Care
After aligner therapy, you’ll notice your teeth are more accessible to brush and floss. There are no nooks and overlapping teeth to deter your efforts.
#5 A Healthier Smile
Straight teeth are typically healthier because the bite surface is more level and doesn’t put pressure on specific teeth taxed with all the chewing.
#6 A Confidence Boost
Loving your smile can boost your confidence and even change how you socialize. You’ll be more apt to laugh and smile, showing off your warm and friendly personality.
Orthodontic Issues that Invisalign and ClearCorrect Can Tackle
Invisalign and ClearCorrect can resolve the following mild to moderate orthodontic issues:
- Twisted, overlapping, and crowded teeth
- Bite misalignment issues, including overbite
- Unusual gaps or spaces between teeth
In other words, clear aligners can tackle the same issues (moderately) as traditional braces. However, your dentist will tell you whether Invisalign or ClearCorrect are sufficient for your orthodontic needs.
Adult Orthodontics with ClearCorrect and Invisalign
It’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. To learn more or to book a consultation with the dentist, contact a helpful dental team member today—and ask us about our free Invisalign consultations in Lodi or Elk Grove, CA!