Clear Aligners in CHicago

Clear Aligners are an alternative to traditional braces. They use a thin, clear plastic aligner (which look like a retainer or mouthguard) to gently exert pressure on your teeth and move them into the proper position. Patients will wear their aligners for 20-22 hours per day, and switch to a new set about every 2 weeks to ensure their teeth continue to shift properly.
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Clear Aligners are nearly invisible when worn and do not affect speech. They can also be removed to brush, floss and eat, so it’s easier to continue to care for your teeth throughout treatment. Since the aligners are removable, there are no dietary restrictions like there are with traditional braces. In addition, Clear Aligner treatment is usually faster than orthodontic correction with braces, so it’s a great alternative for patients who would like to quickly straighten their teeth.

This depends on the extent of your orthodontic issues. Clear Aligners are a great option for those who have minor-to-moderate orthodontic problems like crooked teeth, an uneven smile, or gaps between their teeth. However, Clear Aligners are not recommended for more serious orthodontic problems like major jaw alignment or bite issues, or extremely crooked teeth. Traditional braces are more versatile and better suited to treat these kinds of issues. 
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If you’re wondering whether you’re a good candidate for Clear Aligners, come into our office today for a Clear Aligners consultation with Dr. Kella. If you decide to start Clear Aligners with us after your consultation! Your dream smile is within reach at Lakeshore Dental Studio!

• First, you’ll come in for a consultation with Dr. Kella. If he approves you for treatment, he will take x-rays and dental impressions of your teeth.
• Dr. Kella will work with closely with a lab to develop your treatment plan. Once your plan has been completed, your first several sets of aligners will be sent to our office.
• When your aligners arrive, you’ll come in to pick up your aligners and get instructions for your treatment. You will need to wear each set of aligners for 20-22 hours per day to achieve optimal results.
• You’ll usually switch to a new set of aligners every 2 weeks, and come in every 4-6 weeks for a quick consultation and to receive your next several sets of aligners.
• Over time, your teeth will gently be shifted into the appropriate position. Most patients require between 20-24 sets of aligners for treatment, so the average treatment time is under a year.

This depends on the extent of your orthodontic issues and a number of other factors. It’s quite difficult to provide an accurate cost estimate without a consultation, which is why we offer complimentary Invisalign consultations! After this appointment, Dr. Kella will be able to give you an accurate quote for the cost of your treatment.

It’s important to care for your aligners properly. If your aligners become stained, this can make them visible when worn. If they become damaged or broken, your treatment may be delayed. Avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) while wearing your aligners. Chewing while wearing your aligners will damage them, and drinking beverages like coffee, tea or cola will discolor and stain the aligners.
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Whenever you remove your aligners to eat, drink, brush, or floss, put them in their protective carrying case to avoid losing or accidentally damaging them. You should also brush or use mouthwash after every meal, and rinse your aligners before you put them back in.
After brushing your teeth at night, clean your aligners using warm water, an unscented, clean-rinsing antibacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Cleaning your aligners properly will help prevent issues like tooth decay.

The primary difference between Clear Aligners and traditional braces is how they correct the position of your teeth. Traditional metal braces use a series of brackets which are bonded to your teeth. A metal arch wire is run through these brackets and is held on by rubber elastics. To adjust the position of your teeth, your arch wires are tightened regularly.
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Clear Aligners work differently. Each plastic aligner is built to gently correct the position of your teeth by putting strategic pressure on them. Over time, your teeth will shift slightly to the proper position. There is no “adjustment” necessary. You simply switch to a new set of aligners every 2 weeks.
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Clear Aligners are nearly invisible when worn, unlike braces. It’s also removable, eliminating dietary restrictions and allowing for better oral hygiene throughout treatment. However, the design of Clear Aligners means they're less versatile, and not as suitable for treating complex orthodontic issues, so come see Dr. Kella and ask about a complimentary consultation to see if Clear Aligners are right for you!