Experienced Invisalign & cosmetic clear aligner Provider in Durham City
IClear Aligners FAQs (Invisalign, 32co, Reveal & Smilers)
1. What are clear aligners and what issues can they correct?
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, 32co, Reveal, and Smilers, are custom-made, virtually invisible plastic trays used to gradually straighten teeth.
They are highly effective for treating a wide range of common orthodontic issues, including:
Crowding: Teeth that overlap or are too tightly packed.
Spacing: Gaps or unwanted spaces between teeth.
Overbites & Underbites: Correcting the alignment of the upper and lower jaws.
Crossbites: Aligning upper and lower teeth that bite incorrectly.
2. What is the difference between all the clear aligner systems?
Invisalign is the most well-known brand, but the market features several excellent systems, all of which use a similar principle: applying gentle, controlled pressure to move teeth.
Our Advantage: We are fully proficient and certified in using Invisalign, 32co, Reveal, and Smilers clear aligner systems. This competence means we do not rely on a single brand. Instead, we select the specific aligner system that offers the most predictable results, the best material comfort, and the most efficient treatment plan for your unique case.
3. How long does the clear aligner treatment typically take?
Treatment duration is highly individualized, depending on the complexity of your case and your compliance:
Minor Adjustments (Cosmetic Cases): As little as 6 to 9 months.
Moderate to Complex Cases: Typically range from 12 to 24 months.
Crucially, the treatment time relies on wearing your aligners for the recommended 20–22 hours per day. Not wearing them consistently will significantly extend your treatment timeline.
4. How often do I need to change my aligners?
You will typically switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, as directed by your dentist. Each new aligner is slightly different, designed to continue the controlled movement of your teeth toward the final position. We will provide you with several sets of aligners at your regular check-ups (usually every 6–8 weeks) to ensure your treatment stays on track.
5. Does clear aligner treatment hurt?
No, clear aligner treatment should generally not hurt. However, you may experience a feeling of pressure or soreness for the first day or two after switching to a new aligner tray. This discomfort is normal and simply means the aligners are actively moving your teeth.
6. Will wearing the aligners affect my eating and drinking?
The convenience of clear aligners is that there are no food restrictions!
Eating: You must remove your aligners before eating anything.
Drinking: You should only drink cool or room-temperature water while your aligners are in. You must remove them for all other beverages (coffee, tea, soda, wine, etc.) as these can stain the aligners or get trapped beneath them, risking tooth decay.
7. How do I clean and care for my aligners?
Caring for your aligners is simple, but essential to keep them clear and hygienic:
Rinse: Rinse your aligners with water every time you remove them.
Brush: Clean them twice a day using a soft toothbrush and clear anti-bacterial hand soap or a special aligner cleaning solution. DO NOT use toothpaste, as its abrasive ingredients can scratch the aligners, making them appear dull or cloudy.
Storage: Always keep your aligners in their protective case when they are not in your mouth to prevent damage or loss.
Avoid Heat: Never rinse your aligners with hot water, as the heat can warp the plastic and ruin their custom fit.
