If you’re considering clear aligners, then you’ll probably want to find the most qualified dentist Albuquerque, NM, has to offer. Luckily, Desert Oasis Dental is home to one of the most qualified, trusted, and skilled dentists in the Albuquerque area, Dr. Tran.
Dr. Tran has years of experience crafting clear aligners from high-quality materials with precision technology. As a result, our patients can feel confident that they are getting the most from their clear aligner treatments.
Do you need more information about this transformative orthodontic treatment? Stick around–we’ll answer some of the most common clear aligner FAQs so that you can make the right choice for your oral health and smile goals.
Do clear aligners work as well as metal braces?
Yes! For patients with mild to moderately crooked teeth, clear aligners work just as well as traditional metal braces. Clear aligners and metal braces both work by applying constant force on the teeth to move them into proper alignment. The main difference? Clear aligners are much more discreet and comfortable compared to metal braces.
How do clear aligners work?
First, Dr. Tran will take digital impressions of the patient’s mouth using 3D scanning technology. They will use these images to craft custom-made aligners that patients must wear for 20 to 22 hours a day. Approximately every 7 to 10 days, patients will swap their old aligners for a new set, according to their unique treatment schedule.
Each new set of trays will make tiny adjustments to the patient’s dental alignment. With consistent wear, clear aligner trays can deliver beautifully straightened smiles in just 6 to 18 short months!
How do I care for my clear aligners?
Caring for clear aligners is easy, but they do require some additional effort, such as:
- Patients should remove their aligners while eating
- Patients should brush their teeth and rinse their aligners thoroughly before placing them back in their mouths after eating
- Patients should avoid rinsing their aligners with extremely hot water because it can warp the plastic trays
- Patients should brush their aligners with a non-abrasive toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day
Additionally, patients should continue practicing good oral hygiene every day, such as:
- Brushing at least twice a day
- Flossing at least once a day
- Rinsing with an alcohol-free, antiseptic mouthwash
Will it hurt to straighten my teeth with clear aligners?
Because clear aligner trays put constant pressure on the teeth, many patients experience mild discomfort, especially with a new set of aligners. This discomfort usually dissipates after 48 hours, but patients can take over-the-counter painkillers to reduce their discomfort.
Can I smoke with clear aligners?
Dr. Tran strongly recommends quitting tobacco products while undergoing clear aligner treatment. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes can turn clear aligners yellow, and the heat from drawing in smoke can warp or ruin the plastic trays.
For patients who do not want to quit, our team recommends:
- Removing your trays before using tobacco products
- Thoroughly brushing the teeth before replacing the aligners back in the mouth
- Switching to vape products for a cooler smoke that won’t warp the plastic trays
I’ve had braces before–can I still get clear aligners?
Absolutely! It’s not uncommon for patients’ teeth to shift after orthodontic treatment if they don’t wear a retainer. So, rather than getting metal braces for a second time, many patients choose to restore their dental alignment with clear aligners.
Ask us if clear aligners are right for you
If you’re ready to verify your candidacy for clear aligners like SureSmile® or Invisalign®, then call the compassionate team at Desert Oasis Dental today. New and existing patients can call our Albuquerque dental office at (505)821-8726.