Everyone wants to achieve perfect, uniform, and straight teeth. But teeth straightening traditionally involves wearing ugly metallic braces that cause considerable self-esteem issues and discomfort. No more — we offer Invisalign and clear aligners in San Diego to discreetly straighten your teeth without metallic braces!
Straighten Your Smile Without Ugly Braces
Forget the metallic mouth – there’s a new way for teeth straightening and it’s practically invisible. Clear aligners are the latest dental technology to take the orthodontic world by storm. Unlike traditional braces, which use brackets and wires to move teeth into place, clear aligners are made of a clear, flexible material that’s almost invisible when you wear them. You can straighten your teeth and achieve the perfect smile without worrying about ugly braces!
What are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligner therapy is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear, plastic trays to straighten teeth. Clear aligners gradually move your teeth into the desired position. Each aligner is made specifically for your teeth, and you’ll wear each for about two weeks before moving to the next. As you progress through the aligners, your teeth will slowly shift into place. Clear aligners in San Diego are almost invisible, making them popular for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth.
Clear Aligners Treat:
- Misaligned teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Other orthodontic problems
The Clear Aligners Process
The process begins with an initial consultation with our highly-skilled orthodontists or dentists. They will use 3D imaging technology to take precise measurements of your teeth, following which they will determine if you’re a better candidate for Invisalign or ClearCorrect. The dentist will also curate a personalized treatment plan, map out the sequence of your aligners, and show you a virtual representation of how your teeth will move over time.
Once you have approved the treatment plan, your orthodontist will order your custom-made Invisalign or ClearCorrect aligners. It usually takes a few weeks for the aligners to be manufactured and shipped. When you receive your aligners, you will need to wear them for 20 to 22 hours each day. You will need to visit your orthodontist every four to six weeks so they can monitor your progress and give you the next set of clear aligners in San Diego.
Your Clear Aligner Options
Overview
Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center performs teeth straightening using two possible brands — Invisalign and ClearCorrect. Both are clear aligner systems that use a series of custom-made, comfortable, barely visible plastic aligners that gradually move your teeth into place, but our Scripps-affiliated dentist recommends the appropriate clear aligner system after a thorough evaluation.
Invisalign is the world’s leading brand for clear aligners. Invisalign aligners are thicker than ClearCorrect and can straighten teeth in 10 to 12 months. Invisalign aligners are produced using the cutting-edge SmartTrack thermoplastic material, one of the most sophisticated materials for clear aligners. Invisalign aligners are also 3D printed for optimal accuracy.
ClearCorrect is the second largest manufacturer of clear aligners in the US, with a 70% patient satisfaction rate. ClearCorrect is thinner than Invisalign, so it may feel more comfortable. However, ClearCorrect also takes an average of 13.5 months to show the full effects of teeth straightening in San Diego. ClearCorrect aligners are 3D printed and then cut manually.
Benefits of Clear Aligners:
- Practically invisible when you wear them
- Suitable for those who are self-conscious about wearing braces
- Custom-made to fit your teeth
- More comfortable to wear than traditional braces
- No sharp edges or wires to irritate your gums or cheeks
- Can be removed for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth
- Maintain optimal oral hygiene
- Don’t need to visit the orthodontist as often as with traditional braces
- Restore optimal dental alignment
Clear Aligners FAQs
How do clear aligners feel?
Teeth straightening is done with clear aligners that are comfortable to wear and should not cause pain or discomfort. You may feel a little pressure on your teeth as they begin to move, but this is normal and should go away within a few days.
Can I brush my teeth with clear aligners?
Yes! You can brush and floss your teeth as usual during teeth straightening in San Diego. In fact, it’s important to brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth clean. You must also rinse and wash your aligners regularly.
How many hours per day should I wear clear aligners?
Most people must wear clear aligners for about 20 to 22 hours daily. You take them out to eat and brush your teeth. But other than those exceptions, you must never take them off.
How many clear aligners will I need?
The number of clear aligners you need will depend on the severity of your misalignment and the treatment plan prescribed by your orthodontist. In general, most people will need between 20 and 50 aligners for the entire treatment process.
How long does clear aligner therapy last?
The length of treatment will also depend on the severity of your misalignment and your individual treatment plan. In general, it takes between 9 and 18 months with the use of clear aligners. But the specific duration for teeth straightening in San Diego depends on your specific needs and condition.
What's the difference between Invisalign and ClearCorrect clear aligners?
Invisalign and ClearCorrect are both popular clear aligner systems used for teeth straightening. The main difference lies in the manufacturing process, treatment options, and the specific aligner material used. Our dentists will evaluate your smile to determine if you’re a better candidate for Invisalign or ClearCorrect.
Is Invisalign faster than braces?
Invisalign treatment time varies depending on the individual case. However, in some cases, Invisalign can achieve the desired results faster than traditional braces due to its advanced technology and customized treatment plans. While traditional braces require 18 to 24 months, Invisalign usually requires an average of 12 months.
Will clear braces become stained or discolored over time?
Clear braces are designed to resist staining, but some discoloration can occur with certain food and drink choices. Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and avoiding stain-causing substances, can help minimize any potential discoloration.
Will I need to wear retainers after completing teeth straightening treatment?
Yes, wearing retainers is essential after completing your treatment of teeth straightening in San Diego. Retainers help maintain the newly achieved alignment and prevent teeth from shifting back. Following your orthodontist’s instructions regarding retainer usage is crucial for long-term results.
Can you be too old for teeth straightening?
Age is not a limiting factor for teeth straightening. Clear aligner treatments like Invisalign can be suitable for adults of all ages. It’s never too late to achieve a straighter smile and improve your dental health and confidence.
Meet Dr. Roya Mirkhan
Dr. Roya Mirkhan, a distinguished dentist with over 20 years of experience, leads Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center in San Diego. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry and periodontics, Dr. Mirkhan has extensive experience in clear aligners. Championing the transformative power of a beautiful smile, she offers personalized solutions to enhance overall dental aesthetics. The clinic’s focus on clear aligners, custom-made for gradual teeth repositioning, provides patients with a discreet and effective alternative to traditional braces. Dr. Mirkhan’s commitment to excellence makes Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center a top choice for those seeking a radiant, aligned smile with clear aligners in San Diego.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. MIRKHAN
Why Choose Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center?
Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center at Scripps Clinic Del Mar is a cosmetic, periodontal, and dental implant specialty practice led by a highly-skilled cosmetic dentist with 20+ years of experience. Our dentists have helped numerous patients revitalize their smiles, even when they’ve been told nothing could be done. Regardless of your concerns and conditions, we develop creative plans to help you achieve a perfect smile. Please schedule a consultation to explore your clear aligner options in San Diego.
