Starting clear aligner treatment at Rio Grande Orthodontics is a straightforward way to achieve the smile you want without the metal brackets. If you’re curious about what the process looks like from start to finish, we’ll walk through each phase so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Dr. Gardiner, Dr. Vest, Dr. Klingler, and Dr. Kellam focus on making this as simple as possible, so here’s what treatment involves at our offices in Albuquerque, Edgewood, Espanola, Las Vegas, Los Alamos, Santa Fe (Cerrillos), Santa Fe (Harkle), Socorro, or Taos.
The Consultation
Everything starts with an initial consultation, where you’ll sit down with one of the doctors to discuss your goals and review your dental health. This isn’t just about a quick check-up. It’s a chance for a comprehensive assessment to determine if clear aligners will deliver the results you’re looking for.
Digital Scans and Planning
Once you and your doctor decide to move forward with clear aligners, digital scans or 3D images of your teeth are taken. Unlike traditional molds, these scans are precise and comfortable, creating an exact map of your teeth to plan each step. You’ll even get a chance to preview the potential results, so you have a clear idea of how your smile will look once everything is complete.
Wearing Your Aligners
Once your aligners are ready, you’ll start wearing them daily. They’re designed to fit seamlessly into your routine, with each set gently shifting your teeth. You’ll wear each tray for about two weeks before moving to the next set. The process is gradual, but consistency is the key here—wearing your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours each day will keep things moving forward.
Expect a bit of pressure when switching to a new set of aligners. It’s normal to feel slight discomfort for the first day or two. That’s just the aligners doing their work. If you notice persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to Rio Grande Orthodontics for tips on managing it.
How to Care for Your Aligners and Teeth
Keeping your aligners and teeth clean is essential to avoid any issues like plaque or discoloration. Here are a few straightforward steps to keep your aligners in good condition:
- Brush After Meals: Each time you eat, brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners. This helps to prevent any food particles from getting trapped.
- Rinse Regularly: Give your aligners a quick rinse every time you remove them to keep them fresh and clear.
- Soak Daily: Use a gentle soak to clean your aligners once a day. This removes any buildup and keeps them looking their best.
Following these habits not only maintains the quality of your aligners but also keeps your mouth healthy throughout treatment.
Routine Check-Ups and Adjustments
As your orthodontic treatment in Albuquerque, Espanola, Edgewood, Las Vegas, Los Alamos, Santa Fe (Cerrillos), Santa Fe (Harkle), Taos, or Socorro. progresses, you’ll come in for regular check-ups with Dr. Gardiner, Dr. Vest, Dr. Klingler, or Dr. Kellam. These appointments let your doctor monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. Open communication during these check-ups is encouraged. If you have any concerns or questions, this is the perfect time to address them.
Regular adjustments ensure everything stays on track, and you’re informed every step of the way.
Tips for Staying Comfortable and On Track
A few simple habits can help keep your treatment smooth and effective:
- Stick to the Wear Schedule: The recommended wear time daily is important to see results on time.
- Prepare for Minor Discomfort: Some pressure with a new aligner is normal, signaling progress. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed.
- Track Your Progress: It’s motivating to see the gradual changes, so take pictures along the way if you’d like a visual reminder of how far you’ve come.
These small steps can make a big difference in keeping your treatment effective and comfortable.
Looking for a Better Smile? Let’s Get Started Together!
Clear aligners offer a comfortable, flexible way to get desired results. Dr. Gardiner, Dr. Vest, Dr. Klingler, and Dr. Kellam are here to provide a simple, effective approach with all the support you need along the way. If you’re ready to see what clear aligners can do for you, Rio Grande Orthodontics is here to help you get there in one of our convenient locations in Albuquerque, Edgewood, Espanola, Los Alamos, Las Vegas, Santa Fe (Cerrillos), Santa Fe (Harkle), Socorro, or Taos. Contact us to start with your free consultation.