What Are Clear Aligners and How Do They Work?
Sometimes called “invisible aligners” or “invisible braces,” clear aligners straighten your teeth using a series of custom-made plastic aligner trays. These trays, which are created from digital scans of your teeth and swapped out every few weeks, gradually apply gentle pressure to adjust your teeth into alignment.
Most people won’t be able to spot these low-profile teeth aligners unless you tell them. Combine that with the fact that they can be removed while eating and drinking – thus avoiding many of the food restrictions that braces demand – and it’s no surprise that clear aligners have exploded in popularity over the last couple decades.
What Teeth Aligners Does DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics Offer?
Invisalign
These teeth aligners are an established alternative to traditional braces and offer all the freedom, convenience, and aesthetic appeal you would expect from a clear aligner. While there are now several attractive alternatives on the market, Invisalign was practically synonymous with “clear aligners” for some time and carries a lot of name-brand recognition.
Spark
Spark aligners are designed by Ormco (one of the largest orthodontic manufacturers in the world) to deliver more efficient and effective orthodontic treatment. These virtually invisible aligners are made with a proprietary material called TruGEN™, which Spark positions as the clearest and most comfortable aligner material available today.
uLab
uLab aligners were created by some of the original developers of clear aligner technology, but there’s nothing “old school” about this innovative technology. While other brands require orthodontists to outsource the design and manufacturing of their clear aligners, uLab brings the entire process under one roof. That means we can digitally plan your treatment, print 3D models, and create your customized aligners in the same day!
In-House Aligners
At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics, we also offer our very own in-house aligners. That means we can fabricate your new aligners quickly – it takes a few days instead of a few weeks – and also replace lost or damaged aligners in short order, so you don’t have to worry about your treatment getting off track. For patients with more mild or limited treatment goals, our in-house aligners are often the most cost-effective option.
What Are the Benefits of Invisible Aligners?
While the specific details may vary slightly between brands, clear aligners in general offer a wide range of benefits when compared to traditional braces. Those include:
How Much Do Clear Aligners Cost in Fresno and Clovis?
At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics, the cost of clear aligner treatment ranges from $1,800 to $6,500 (our treatment fees are also the same for aligners or braces). However, it’s hard to estimate costs on an individual basis until we can examine your specific orthodontic challenges. Some factors that can impact the cost of clear aligner treatment include the issues being addressed, the amount of work and time needed to plan and implement your treatment, and the average cost of clear aligners in your area.
Insurance coverage for clear aligners can vary between providers and plans, so it’s important to understand the details of your coverage before seeking treatment. Fortunately, DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics accepts most PPO insurance plans and can help you create your own flexible financing plan.
Who Can Get Clear Aligners Treatment?
While clear aligners can help many people reach their treatment goals, they may not be suitable for some situations. Typically, these teeth aligners deliver the best results for patients with mild-to-moderate cases of gapped teeth, crowding, or misaligned bites. Patients experiencing more severe issues may be better candidates for traditional braces.
Another consideration is the patient’s age and level of responsibility. Clear aligners must be worn daily for at least 20 to 22 hours in order to work effectively, and they can be easily lost and/or damaged if you don’t handle them with care.
Clear Aligners for Adults
It’s never too late to get a smile that makes you look and feel great! Clear aligners are particularly popular among adults due to their comfort, convenience, and low profile. These factors matter when you’re busy working, parenting, or just enjoying an active lifestyle.
Clear aligners are also a viable option for adults who have undergone cosmetic or restorative dental procedures and have crowns, veneers, or other implants.
Clear Aligners for Teens
Navigating life as a teenager can be challenging in its own right. Many teens are hesitant to add braces into the mix because they’re worried about feeling self-conscious or drawing unwanted attention. Braces can also limit their participation in certain activities and sports.
Clear aligners address these concerns without limiting the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment, which makes them an ideal fit for responsible teens who can care for their aligners and stick to the treatment guidelines.
How To Clean and Care for Your Clear Aligners
Properly cleaning and caring for your clear aligners is critical! Even though aligners trays are swapped out regularly, you don’t want to put a dirty or smelly aligner in your mouth every day. Proper care will also ensure that you don’t damage or warp your aligner, which can impact your treatment schedule.
When using a clear aligner, you should:
Get Expert Clear Aligner Treatment in Fresno and Clovis With DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics
Considering orthodontic treatment? The good news is you have more options than ever before when it comes to transforming your smile, boosting your confidence, and enjoying better overall oral health. For many of our patients, clear aligners offer the perfect mix of aesthetic appeal and effective, fast treatment.
DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics is a leading provider of clear aligners in Fresno and Clovis, and our expert orthodontists can help you find the perfect fit for your unique lifestyle and needs. Call us at (559) 325-3300 or text us at (559) 325-3300 to schedule your complimentary consultation today!