We know that choosing the right orthodontic treatment is a big deal for our patients at Forest Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry. Many adults and teens in Lake Forest want solutions that work but don’t show the metal braces that are usually used. People are getting more interested in clear aligner therapy because it’s a discreet way to get a confident smile.
In the last 20 years clear aligners have changed the way orthodontic treatment works. These clear, removable trays use a series of custom made aligners to gently move teeth into place. Each set applies the right amount of pressure to certain teeth, slowly moving them according to a carefully planned treatment plan. At the beginning of treatment we make a digital model of your mouth. This allows us to plan out the whole process, from where your teeth are now to where they will be when you’re done. This technology lets you see what your projected results will look like before treatment even starts.
When talking about clear aligners you can’t say enough about how easy they are to use. These trays are different from fixed appliances in that you can take them out when you eat, brush or floss. This flexibility lets you keep up with your regular oral hygiene routine without having to deal with wires and brackets. You just take out your aligners when you eat, enjoy your food without any problems and then brush and put them back in. Most of the time patients wear their aligners for 20-22 hours a day, taking them out just to eat and clean. This works really well and fits into busy lives.
Adults love how clear aligner therapy makes their teeth look. When your orthodontic treatment is almost invisible, professional meetings, social events and family photos are a breeze. The smooth plastic material also stops the mouth from getting irritated which can happen with regular brackets and wires. Many of our patients in Lake Forest, IL say their friends and coworkers don’t even know they are getting orthodontic treatment. Treatment time varies from person to person but most people finish in 12-18 months. Some cases are more complex and may take longer, others may be able to finish sooner with minor changes. We monitor your progress by seeing you every 6-8 weeks. We check how your teeth are moving, discuss any issues and give you your next set of aligners at these visits. Because clear aligner treatment is so predictable we can give you a timeline from the start.
Clear aligners are a great way to fix many orthodontic problems. This treatment works well for problems like crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites and crossbites. But All About Braces or other orthodontic methods may work better for some complex cases. We do thorough tests to determine which treatment is best for your unique situation. We consider your oral health history, treatment goals and personal preferences when making recommendations.
When looking into orthodontic solutions it’s natural to think about the cost. The cost of clear aligner treatment is usually in the same range as traditional braces but the actual cost depends on how long and complex the treatment is. We offer flexible payment plans so more families can get good orthodontic care. Many dental insurance plans cover clear aligner treatment as part of their orthodontic benefits. We can help you coordinate your insurance so you can get the most out of your benefits.
Following the rules is key to treatment working. Patients need to make sure they wear their aligners all the time because they can be taken off. Not wearing aligners for the correct amount of time each day can make treatment take longer and may lower the results. We work closely with our patients to help them develop good habits and deal with any issues that come up during treatment. Most patients get used to the routine quickly and find wearing aligners becomes second nature.
The field of clear aligners is still evolving in terms of technology. Digital scanning has mostly replaced traditional impressions so the first appointment is more pleasant. 3D treatment planning software allows us to move teeth with accuracy never seen before. These new developments make treatment better for patients and leads to better results. Let us help you get a healthy, beautiful smile with today’s orthodontic options. We use clear aligner therapy as one of the many ways to improve oral health and confidence. We’re proud to be a part of your story because every smile has one. If you’ve been thinking about getting braces but have been concerned about how they’ll look or impact your lifestyle, clear aligners might be the way to go. Let’s take a look at your smile and talk about how we can help you achieve your goals. Dr. Derek Bock is a trusted orthodontist in Forest Hill, IL, dedicated to creating confident, healthy smiles through personalized and compassionate care.