Clear Aligners
Why Choose Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are a modern, discrete solution for straightening teeth, offering benefits such as:
- VIRTUALLY INVISIBLE – Clear aligners allow for a discrete and subtle treatment option
- COMFORTABLE FIT – Smooth, custom-made trays with no brackets or wires
- REMOVABLE DESIGN – Eat, drink, and brush your teeth with ease
- FASTER RESULTS – Many patients see results in as little as 6–18 months
Helpful Tips for your Clear Aligners
Oral Hygiene:
Brush and floss normally with the aligners out. Try to brush after eating and before re-inserting aligners. However, if you are not able to brush, rinse out your mouth and aligners before wearing, and then brush at your earliest convenience.
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Large food particles may prevent proper insertion. Clean aligners prior to each insertion. You can use a normal toothbrush. Rinse under running water and brush clean. Never use denture cleaner or soak in alcohol or bleach, as they will be damaged. Do not place aligners in boiling or hot water to clean, as they will be damaged.
Aligner Wear:
Aligners only work when you are wearing them. We recommend wearing them FULL TIME, day and night. The only time the aligners should be removed is when you are eating, drinking, brushing, flossing or cleaning them.
Aligner Storage:
Always place the aligners in the case provided. Never place aligners in napkins or any other case. Never place in a pocket that can be sat on. Always keep your previous aligners.
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This is just in case you lose your current aligner, and we will request you to return to the previous aligner while we order
you a new one. If you do not keep the previous aligners, retainers will need to be made to maintain current alignment while waiting on the new aligners. This will cost $100 per retainer. If you lose an aligner, call our office and wear the previous aligner if available. Replacement retainers are $20 per aligner.
Eating:
There are no food restrictions with aligners. However, they must always be removed when eating.
Drinking:
Always remove aligners while drinking, EXECPT for cold or room temperature water. Any fluid will get inside the aligner and be held against your teeth possibly for hours and can cause staining or damage to the teeth and aligners.
Gum:
Do NOT chew gum while wearing aligners. Smoking: It is advised NOT to smoke while wearing aligners. It will stain the aligners and teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case, but most patients achieve their desired results in 6 to 18 months. Dr. McHugh will provide a customized timeline based on your specific needs.
Can I eat and drink with clear aligners?
Clear aligners should be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps prevent staining and damage to the aligners. After eating, it’s important to brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners to maintain oral hygiene and keep your aligners clean.
How often do I need to wear my aligners?
For the best results, you should wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. Consistently following your treatment plan ensures faster and more effective results.
