4 facts about clear aligners, a modern and appealing way to straighten teeth

It’s a common and understandable scenario: You don’t smile because you’re embarrassed about your crowded, crooked, or gapped teeth. Floss is always getting stuck in tight spaces, and you’re concerned about cavities because of difficulty cleaning unevenly spaced teeth. However, you’ve put off getting treatment out of other concerns – you don’t want the hassle or obvious-looking appearance associated with traditional braces. 

At Martindale Family Dentistry in Griffin, Georgia, you can straighten your teeth without fixed (non-removable) brackets and wires that are visible when you smile. Here are four facts about clear aligners, a modern alternative to braces carefully selected by our dentist, Dr. Mark Martindale.

1 – Clear aligners are made from a transparent plastic for a discreet treatment process.

We understand that teens and adults alike generally want to avoid having a mouth full of dark-colored metal “hardware.” The aligner system that we use, SureSmile, is designed to slip over your teeth and to blend in with them. Most people will never notice your aligners unless they are very close to your teeth. This makes younger patients feel more at ease when taking photos or participating in school and social activities and events. Likewise, adults feel more comfortable and confident in work and social settings. Orthodontic appliances don’t have to hold you back from feeling your best throughout treatment. And, as your teeth are gradually repositioned, you’ll want to smile without holding back!

2 – SureSmile aligners are comfortable and smooth.

The transparent nature of SureSmile aligners isn’t their only asset; they are also designed with patients’ utmost comfort in mind. The aligners are made from an advanced plastic, which is designed to be smooth, soft, and flexible. Unlike braces, there are no brackets and wires that poke at or rub up against the inside of the cheeks and other delicate tissues. Because of these comfortable features, SureSmile generally does not require a lengthy or difficult adjustment period. At first, it may feel a little “off” to have something in your mouth for prolonged periods. And, as treatment progresses and you wear new aligners as directed by Dr. Martindale, you may experience some changes in pressure. Each aligner has a slightly different fit because it corresponds to a different stage in your treatment plan. So, the aligners are largely very well-tolerated. If you have any questions about how your aligners are fitting, just give us a call! Simple adjustments or guidance can make a big difference in your comfort at the outset of treatment and as you wear new aligners. 

3 – Aligners can be removed so that you can enjoy your favorite foods and beverages as normal. 

Traditional braces can be limiting. You can’t eat certain crunchy, sticky, hard, or otherwise “unforgiving” foods. Since SureSmile appliances can be removed before snacking, meals, or drinking beverages (besides water), you can continue to eat as usual. Your overall health and well-being are supported throughout treatment by access to a wide array of nutritious foods. Your nutrition does not suffer. Just be sure to reinsert the aligner as soon as you are done eating, rinsing, and cleaning it. Patient compliance with instructions for wear and care is very important. The aligners apply continuous force to the teeth, which moves them into correct alignment. When they are not worn as directed, treatment will not progress on schedule. Your results may be delayed. 

4 –  Since aligners are removable, you can brush and floss normally, too.

It is essential to maintain good flossing and brushing habits throughout treatment. SureSmile aligners make home care a breeze because there are no attached brackets and wires that get in the way when cleaning your teeth and gums. Once the aligners are removed, you can brush and floss like usual. Effective cleaning reduces plaque buildup, helping keep your mouth healthy at every step of treatment. Our team will provide you with instructions for soaking and brushing your aligners. This is an important aspect of aligner therapy, because your aligners are vulnerable to decay-causing bacteria. With proper care, your aligners can stay in good condition and continue to look great. 

Now that you have a glimpse into SureSmile treatment, Martindale Family Dentistry looks forward to providing you with a fuller picture. Schedule an appointment at our Griffin, GA office. Call 770-637-5876 today. 

Dr. Mark Martindale

Dr. Mark Martindale, DDS, is a dedicated and compassionate cosmetic dentist with over a decade and a half of experience. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College and completed a residency at the Miami VA Medical Center. As the founder of Martindale Family Dentistry in Griffin, Georgia, Dr. Martindale is committed to conservative dental care. He is an active member of the Georgia Dental Association, American Dental Education Association, and Student National Dental Association. He frequently volunteers his expertise as a Preceptor at the Ben Massell dental clinic in Atlanta and other underserved communities across Georgia. You can rely on Dr. Martindale for exceptional, patient-centered care that prioritizes your needs.

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