Clear Aligners FAQ

Want to learn about the GO Aligner system for moving your teeth into alignment? You can get the answers you want from our team at Gallagher Orthodontics. Check out these clear aligner frequently asked questions to get more details about your treatment options, then contact us today to set up a complimentary consultation.

Why Choose Clear Aligners?

You have several benefits to consider when reviewing clear aligners as an orthodontic option. These aligners are custom-made, which means many patients find them very comfortable. They’re also difficult to notice once you have them in your mouth.

Finally, you can easily remove your clear aligners, allowing you to eat anything you want, play sports, or attend special events without worrying about your braces.

How Often Must I Wear My Aligners?

In many FAQ about aligners, patients ask how long they have to wear the aligners. Generally, Dr. Gallagher recommends wearing your aligners for at least 22 hours every day. Basically, you wear your aligners all the time, taking them out only to eat, drink, floss, and brush.

How Do I Care for My Clear Aligners?

Caring for your aligners keeps them in good condition. Primarily, you care for them by making sure you brush and floss your teeth after each meal and before replacing your aligners. However, you should also gently brush the aligners and rinse them with warm water.

Properly caring for each set of aligners allows you to keep bacteria from pressing against your teeth inside the aligner. Trapping food particles between your teeth and the aligner could lead to an increase in tartar or plaque buildup, so make sure you take a bit of extra time in your daily routine to keep up with your oral health.

How Long Will Treatment Last?

Typically, treatment time is between 12-24 months to get the results you want for your smile. However, treatment time varies based on the extent of the changes you want to make to your teeth. For example, patients whose teeth are only slightly crooked may not need to use the aligners as long.

What Happens After Treatment?

Treatment with your clear aligners ends once you see the changes you want in your smile. However, you do have to take care of your teeth after finishing your last aligner. Generally, Dr. Gallagher recommends that patients use a retainer after the treatment.

You wear your retainer at night to help your teeth stay straight. Expect to continue wearing the retainer indefinitely to maintain the new positioning of your teeth. Failing to wear your retainer may allow your teeth to shift back to their old position, undoing the work you put in with the aligners.

Make sure that you brush your teeth before putting in your retainer at night. Taking this step keeps bacteria from lingering on your teeth throughout the night, potentially contributing to cavities or other oral healthcare concerns.

Are Clear Aligners Right for Me?

Frequently asked questions about clear aligners often focus on everyday concerns regarding how the system functions. However, we also understand the importance of helping you decide whether Aligners represent the best treatment option for you.

You should only consider the aligner system if you can keep them in place for around 22 hours a day. If you think you might have trouble taking the aligners out or forgetting to put them back in, you may want to consider another option, like braces that allow you to easily stay on track with your treatment. However, if you’re looking for a discreet, comfortable treatment option that requires little to no change in your daily routine, clear aligners may be a great option for you!