It is important to see your orthodontist on a regular basis throughout the course of your orthodontic treatment.
If you have decided to go ahead with clear aligner treatment, you can look forward to a straighter, healthier smile. Clear aligners are an increasingly popular orthodontic option for patients who are looking for a discreet and comfortable alternative to braces as they fit into most lifestyles and can be used to address a broad range of issues. But it is important to remember that it takes some commitment and effort to enjoy a smooth, effective treatment process.
A crucial part of this process is seeing your orthodontist at regular intervals to ensure that progress is being made and that your treatment plan is on track. Although every patient is different, you can expect to see your orthodontist every six to ten weeks, depending on your particular requirements. Read on to find out more about the treatment process and what you can expect from your appointments along the way…
What do the appointments involve?
When you begin your treatment with clear aligners, your orthodontist will let you know how often you should come in for appointments, depending on your needs. In most cases, patients need to see their orthodontist every six weeks or so. You may, however, need to arrange appointments more or less often than this, depending on your case, unique concerns, and aesthetic goals. During these appointments, your orthodontist will check that your clear aligners are functioning as they should, and that they feel comfortable and secure in your mouth. They may also provide you with a new set of aligners that are designed to fit slightly differently at certain points in the treatment process.
When you see your orthodontist for these appointments, it is an ideal opportunity to raise any questions or concerns that you might have regarding your clear aligners. Your orthodontist will also use this time to check on the progress of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Should you see your dentist?
Just as you should see your orthodontist regularly throughout your orthodontic treatment, so too should you stick to regular dental visits while you have clear aligners. By seeing your dentist on a regular basis, it is possible to keep your teeth healthy and clean while you are straightening them and to keep issues like gum disease and tooth decay at bay. Your dentist will also be able to remove any plaque and tartar that has built-up, which can be helpful in preventing stains on the surface of your teeth.
Besides regular dental and orthodontic visits, it is important that you practice proper oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth and ensuring that you clean your clear aligners every day. You should also be mindful of your diet — try to limit sugary foods and drinks, which can contribute to the build-up of plaque and lead to issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
How can we help?
At Straight Orthodontics, our team is available to provide you with all the support and guidance that you need throughout the course of your orthodontic treatment. We want you to enjoy a smooth and stress-free treatment process, and to achieve the best possible results from your treatment of choice.
We offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic solutions for patients of all ages, including clear aligners. If clear aligners are not suitable for your particular needs, you might consider braces instead — we offer both conventional metal braces and ceramic braces.
To find out more about the full range of orthodontic treatments that we offer at Straight Orthodontics, please have a look here.
To book an appointment, please contact us here or give us a call on 03 9585 8000.