Clear Braces

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Clear Correct Logo
SureSmile

Beautiful mouths with straight teeth that line up correctly and fit together in a comfortable, attractive way are rarely natural. Our real teeth grow unevenly, protrude in unplanned directions, and are aggravated by oral habits. Genetics and childhood thumb-sucking combine to create our awkward bites and crooked teeth. Those awkward bites are called malocclusions.

What is a malocclusion?

A malocclusion is an imperfect fit between the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw). Malocclusions range from minor to severe, and different intensities require very different treatments. If you have a significant overbite or underbite, it is likely that Dr. Williams will recommend an orthodontist to determine your bite correction plan.

Tell me about alternative orthodontics like Invisalign, Clear Correct & SureSmile

Modern dental technologies have provided alternatives to traditional orthodontics. Conventional metal braces involve years of treatment and a significant alteration to your bite. If you have a minor malocclusion, you don’t need to undergo the stress, length of time, and oral hardware that braces require. You’ll experience all the benefits of a straighter smile, without the same orthodontics frustration. Orthodontics alternative offered by Dr. Williams include Invisalign, Clear Correct, & SureSmile.

How does Invisalign and Clear Correct work? Is Clear Braces right for me?

If you have crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, or several crooked teeth, Clear Braces will correct the problem without impacting your life. This system consists of a series of custom-made clear trays that shift your teeth without obstructing your smile. These trays are completely removable and nearly imperceptible when in use. They are built from three-dimensional digital images taken of your mouth, so that every angle is visible to Invisalign, Clear Correct, & SureSmile technicians. As your teeth shift, you will visit your dentist regularly and receive new sets of straightening clear braces. This way, both you and your dentist are able to monitor your progress.

The Invisalign, Clear Correct, and SureSmile Process

1 Consultation
The FIRST step in the process is a simple consultation. During the consultation, you and Dr. Williams will discuss your case in detail to determine if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, Clear Correct or SureSmile. Invisalign, Clear Correct, and SureSmile now addresses many cases, from simple to more complex. Our doctor will determine if Clear Braces are right for you. This will also be your opportunity to ask any questions about clear braces, costs, dental/orthodontic insurance, or any other concerns.

2 Create a 3-D Image of Your Teeth
We will take x-rays, pictures and impressions of your teeth, which Invisalign will use to create a digital 3-D image of them. From these images our doctor will map out a precise treatment plan, including the exact movements of your teeth. Using this same technology, your doctor will even be able to show you a virtual representation of how your teeth will move with each stage of treatment

3 Receive Your Custom Aligners Based On Your Personalized Treatment Plan
clear alignerBased on your individual treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners is then created specifically for you. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that won’t irritate your cheeks and gums like traditional metal braces often do. Simply wear them throughout the day, and remove them when you eat or to brush and floss your teeth. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place. And because they’re virtually invisible, most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.

4 Wear a New Aligner Every Week
new sets of alignersApproximately every two weeks, you will begin wearing a new set of aligners, advancing you to the next stage of your treatment. To monitor your progress, you will also have occasional checkups with your doctor, usually only every six weeks or so. At every stage, you will be able to see how much closer you are to having the smile that reflects the real you.

5 Reveal Your New Smile
smiling woman wearing Invisalign alignersWhile every case is unique to each patient, treatment typically takes approximately 6 months to a year for adults. For teens, the length of treatment is comparable to that of braces, but since your teeth won’t be covered by wires and brackets, you’ll be able to see improvement much sooner. For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, throughout your entire treatment.