There are many times where people, especially adults, are hesitant to really start getting serious about orthodontic treatment. This is usually because they don’t want visible appliances in their mouth. But, with the advancements in orthodontic technology over the last several decades, there are more options in types of treatment than just the traditional, bulky metal braces.
One of these more discreet options is clear/”invisible” aligners. ClearCorrect is one of the popular systems of aligners that are available today.
You may not be familiar with the name ClearCorrect or exactly what the system is. So, in this article, we’ll break it down and provide what you need to know about this great orthodontic treatment option.
What is the ClearCorrect System?
ClearCorrect is a multi-phase set of customized, clear aligners, that gradually move your teeth into the desired, proper alignment. They are made from a tri-layer combination of clear medical-grade plastics and are highly durable, flexible, and stain-resistant.
These removable aligners are practically invisible (unless someone is really looking for them) and are designed to be worn 22 hours per day. They should only be removed to eat and brush/floss. (Which does allow for a more easily managed dental hygiene routine compared to braces.)
The company was founded in Houston, TX in 2006 by Dr. Willis Pumphrey after the company that was making his patients’ clear aligners shut down. After FDA approval of the ClearCorrect aligners in 2009, they became much more widespread throughout the US and are growing in popularity.
Source: Mayo Clinic
How Do These Aligners Work?
Each set of ClearCorrect aligners that you get will be custom-made to your dental structure, fit snugly over your teeth, and use constant gentle pressure to shift all of your teeth at once, unlike braces.
Initially, impressions or scans of your teeth will be made at the dentist/orthodontist office. These, along with X-rays and other necessary information, will be sent to the ClearCorrect laboratory. There, an exact 3-D model of your teeth will be made. Then, a complete treatment plan based on that model will be mapped out, showing the gradual realignment of your teeth from their current position to the final desired position.
After the treatment planning, a computerized representation of your teeth before and after treatment, referred to as the “treatment setup”, is available for you to view. Adjustments to the plan can be made then but once this treatment setup is approved, your customized aligners are created at the laboratory using advanced digital mapping and molding technology.
Source: Dear Doctor Inc.
The treatment with ClearCorrect aligners involves four different phases. Each phase requires a new set of aligners that are worn for several weeks. The period of each phase provides for optimum control and flexibility.
After wearing each aligner set, as your teeth begin slowly adjusting and aligning to your desired smile, you’ll notice the results. Typically, each set of trays is worn for about two weeks and you’ll come in for a progress checkup every six to eight weeks. This routine will continue until your teeth have reached their desired positions. The specific length of time you wear each set of aligners and come into the office for a checkup will, of course, depend on your specific treatment plan.
Once you have almost reached the end of your active treatment with the aligners, your dentist will discuss retainer options with you. The last thing you want to do is lose your hard-earned results and have your teeth shift back to their original positions.
There are three ClearCorrect treatment options available. Depending on the severity of your malocclusion (crooked/misaligned teeth), your dentist will determine the best solution for you. The plans include:
- Limited 6: You will be provided with 6 sets of aligners.
- Limited 12: You will be provided with 12 sets of aligners.
- Unlimited: You will be provided with as many aligners as needed to reach the desired positioning of the teeth.
Benefits of ClearCorrect Aligners:
There are several benefits to straightening your teeth using the ClearCorrect aligners versus braces. These include:
- The aligners are almost invisible while being worn.
- They are much more comfortable compared to traditional braces.
- The aligners apply the perfect amount of gentle pressure to move your teeth.
- Since they work to move all of your teeth gently at once, the treatment time will often be less compared to other types of treatment.
- Using highly controlled movement of your teeth, the aligners provide excellent results.
- You’ll have less interference with daily life and eating habits since they are removable.
- The aligners are safe and extremely durable, while still being flexible.
- There will be fewer office visits compared to traditional braces.
How Long Does ClearCorrect Take?
With traditional braces, the active treatment time will usually be between one and three years. But, with the orthodontic technology used in ClearCorrect aligners, treatment time is often significantly reduced to anywhere from eight to 14 months. Because the ClearCorrect aligners shift all of your teeth at the same time, you’ll see fast and effective results while the health of your jaw and teeth is still preserved.
But, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long ClearCorrect takes. It will depend on specific factors such as how severe the misalignment of the teeth is, how many sets of the aligners will be required to reach the desired result, etc. At your initial consultation, your doctor will go over all of this with you and can answer any questions you may have about the length of treatment time.
Cost of ClearCorrect
The cost of ClearCorrect will also vary, depending on the complexity/severity of your case, how many aligners will be needed, etc. The specific estimated cost of your proposed dental treatment plan will be another thing your dentist will go over with you in your initial appointment.
But, compared to other brands of clear aligners (like Invisalign), ClearCorrect aligners are often less expensive. Making them an affordable treatment option if you are looking for a more discreet way to achieve that straight smile you want. Schedule your consultation today to get a more definitive idea of what ClearCorrect will cost for your treatment plan.
Trust the Leading Local Provider of ClearCorrect In Drexel Hill, PA
So, as you can see, ClearCorrect is a great option for both teens and adults aiming to get a beautiful straight smile. These virtually invisible aligners provide a much more discreet and comfortable alternative to the traditional metal braces.
If you are interested in starting your ClearCorrect treatment, you can trust the experienced and compassionate team here at Radomile Family Dental Care in Drexel Hill, proudly serving patients from Drexel Hill, Springfield, Media, Havertown, and surrounding areas. We provide top-quality dental and orthodontic care using the most innovative treatment options, including the ClearCorrect system.
Have more questions about ClearCorrect? Want to get started on your treatment? Contact us today! We can answer any questions you may have and start helping you determine what your treatment options may be.