Crooked teeth can be more than a cosmetic concern, they can also be the underlying cause of a variety of dental problems. It can also be harder to clean between misaligned teeth, which can increase the risk of developing tooth cavities and gum disease. They can also create an imbalance in the bite, leading to more complex problems such as TMJ. Dr. Jason Petkevis is an Exton, PA dentist, who gives patients the option to discreetly reposition their teeth and straighten their smiles with aligners.
Clear braces systems are easy and affordable. Aligners can correct not only crooked teeth, but also crowded teeth, overbites, and crossbites. Our clear aligners are made of ultra-thin, ultra-clear, hard-soft plastic.
Clear Aligners vs. Braces
Straightening your teeth will support your long-term dental health by avoiding certain dental diseases in addition to providing the smile you have always wanted. Also, studies indicate clear braces can lead to improved dental hygiene during treatment compared to traditional braces.
Because clear aligners are removable, you can brush and floss as normal. Traditional metal braces can be difficult to care for and often trap food particles between the braces and teeth. Metal braces are the conventional treatment but they have more disadvantages when compared to clear aligners.
Invisible braces alleviate many of the hassles associated with traditional metal braces, including:
- Shorter treatment times
- There are no dietary restrictions
- They are more comfortable and removable
- With clear braces, the treatment is unnoticeable
- There are no risks of tooth enamel staining from permanently attached brackets
The benefits of getting clear aligners in our Exton office include quick treatment times, removable aligners, and discreet treatment. Dr. Petkevis will help you determine if you’re a good candidate for aligners over braces. He often recommends invisible aligners for mild to moderate orthodontic problems. Still, clear aligners can treat overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
How Much Do Clear Aligners Cost?
The cost of invisible braces depends on the individual treatment plan. Factors that determine price include the extent of the alignment needed and the number of aligners needed to achieve the desired straightening results. Clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment that is only slightly more expensive than braces.
Most dental insurance plans will partially cover the cost, just as they would braces. Dental insurance is a prepaid benefit and is an agreement between the employer or individual and the dental insurance provider.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to know how much coverage will be provided. If you would like more information on financing and payment options, please visit Financing.
How Does it Work?
Dr. Petkevis will begin the clear aligner process by using Align Technology. He takes digital impressions to create high-resolution, 3-D images of your teeth at our Exton, PA dentist office. He uses this technology to fabricate your invisible braces in a local lab from high-quality hard-soft clear plastic.
Dr. Petkevis will create a customized treatment plan and give you an estimate of how long your treatment will take. The number of aligners and length of your treatment will depend on the problem(s) being addressed and the desired result.
At your next dental visit, Dr. Petkevis will ensure the first set of your new lab-crafted aligners fit well. He’ll also provide you with a case to keep the aligners safe.
You will change your clear braces according to your personal treatment plan, but generally every two weeks. The aligners are to be worn about 22 hours per day. You have plenty of time to remove them so you can enjoy the foods you love and maintain good oral hygiene.
Cleaning your teeth properly can help you avoid gum disease that may lead to missing teeth or bone loss. Generally speaking, treatment takes 6 to 9 months, but some patients may achieve the results they want in as few as 3 or 4 months.
Clear Aligner FAQs
Do you have questions for us? We can help. Read answers to common questions we get about clear aligner treatment in Exton, PA.
What happens if I lose an aligner?
Contact Dr. Petkevis as soon as you lose a clear aligner. He can tell you whether to move to your next aligner or get a replacement for the one you lost. Don’t skip ahead unless our dentist says it’s okay, because wearing the wrong aligner at the wrong time can slow down your treatment.
We can order a replacement aligner, which may take a few days to arrive. While you wait, continue wearing your previous aligner if it still fits comfortably.
How do I clean clear aligners?
Cleaning your clear aligners is easy and helps keep your smile healthy. You should clean them every day to prevent bacteria and odors.
Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water each time you take them out. Gently brush them using a soft toothbrush and clear, mild soap. Avoid toothpaste, since it can be too abrasive and scratch the aligners.
For a deeper clean, soak your aligners in a cleaning solution made for aligners or dentures. Always rinse them well before you put them back in your mouth. You also want to brush your teeth before you put your aligners back on.
Can I play sports with clear aligners?
Yes. You can remove the aligners and wear your sports mouthguard to prevent damage to the plastic aligners. Once you’re done with practice or your game, you can put the aligners back on your teeth.
How long will my orthodontic treatment with aligners take?
The length of orthodontic treatment with aligners depends on your specific smile and treatment goals. For many patients, treatment takes about 6 to 18 months. Some minor cases may take less time, while more complex tooth movements can take longer.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Do you need a dentist that offers clear aligners in the Exton, PA, Main Line, PA, Downingtown, PA, and Chester Springs, PA area? Contact Dental Distinction.
Call our dental office at 610-904-9274. Feel free to request an appointment with us online. Dr. Petkevis will discuss your dental health, cosmetic goals, and budget to see if clear aligners are right for you.