Straightening Your Teeth
While some people do not believe teeth straightening treatment is necessary, it provides more than just a cosmetic change to one’s smile. Adjusting crooked teeth can also help patients achieve healthier teeth. It is easier to clean straighter teeth with brushing and flossing whereas crooked teeth can trap bits of food and plaque, making it more difficult to clean.
With cosmetic orthodontics, we can also help to correct bite alignment and jaw issues in the mouth. With our teeth straightening treatments we strive to provide patients with fully-functional and uniform teeth. Cosmetic orthodontics can address the appearance and usage of teeth with a variety of treatment options.
However, each treatment will have specific steps the patient needs to follow on a regular basis. Below are some of the steps for proper care during the SureSmile treatment.
Proper Cleaning Instructions
While the SureSmile aligner trays will be difficult for people to notice, they may need rinsing before placing in the mouth. Patients will need to remove food particles and plaque from the teeth each time before placing them back in the mouth. Otherwise, people will notice the food stuck in their teeth.
Gently brushing them can also help to remove any plaque that may be there. We will go over more detailed instructions during an appointment.
Following Instructions
When it comes to wearing SureSmile aligners, patients will need to follow the set order of when to wear the trays. After wearing one set for a few weeks, it will be time to move on to the next one. Patients must not go out of order or else they will cause themselves more discomfort and prolong the process.
Remove the Aligners when Eating
The patient needs to remove the aligners to eat or drink anything besides water. This will allow patients to eat any food they desire, but patients must keep the aligners clean. Even drinking something like tea can damage the aligners.
Wear the Aligners at least 20 – 22 Hours each Day
While the aligners are removable for eating, sports, photos, presentations, dates and social gatherings, it is crucial to leave them in for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. The amount of time is necessary to help shift the teeth into the right position. If a patient does not wear the aligners enough, then they will fall behind the treatment plan and lengthen the process.
Attend any Recommended Checkups During Treatment
Since the aligner trays follow a customized plan mapped out by the advanced software of SureSmile, patients will not need to make as many checkup appointments as with other straightening options. However, there will be a few necessary checkup appointments to ensure everything is adjusting smoothly. Patients need to attend these and reach out to us if there are any issues during the treatment.
If you are interested in SureSmile or in straightening your teeth, give us a call today and schedule an appointment.