Clear Aligners in Chicago, IL

Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, nearly invisible trays that gently move your teeth into the desired position over time. Unlike metal braces, clear aligners are comfortable, removable, and virtually undetectable. Here’s why patients love them:

• Discreet Treatment: Clear aligners are transparent, making them an ideal choice for adults and teens who want a subtle option for teeth straightening.
• Removable: Enjoy the flexibility of removing your aligners when eating, drinking, or cleaning your teeth.
• Comfortable: Made from smooth plastic, clear aligners are free of the metal brackets and wires that can irritate your mouth.
• Effective: Whether you have mild to moderate misalignment, crowding, or gaps between teeth, clear aligners are highly effective at straightening your teeth.

Getting started with clear aligners at Wentworth Dental Clinic PC is a simple and straightforward process. We’ll guide you through every step to ensure a smooth treatment experience:

1. Initial Consultation

During your first visit, Dr. Chan will evaluate your smile and discuss your goals. If clear aligners are the right option for you, we’ll take digital impressions of your teeth using advanced 3D scanning technology. No messy molds required!

2. Custom Treatment Plan

Using the 3D scans, we’ll design a custom treatment plan that maps out the movement of your teeth over time. You’ll even be able to see a digital preview of your final smile!

3. Aligner Fitting

Once your clear aligners are ready, you’ll receive a series of trays that you’ll wear for 20-22 hours a day. You’ll change to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks as your teeth gradually move into place.

4. Regular Checkups

Throughout your treatment, we’ll schedule periodic checkups to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. Because clear aligners are removable, you can continue to eat your favorite foods and maintain your regular oral hygiene routine with ease.

5. Enjoy Your New Smile

Most patients complete their treatment in 12 to 18 months, though this varies based on individual needs. Once you’ve finished your series of aligners, you’ll be ready to enjoy your perfectly straightened smile!

When deciding between clear aligners and traditional braces, there are several factors to consider. Clear aligners are nearly invisible and offer a discreet option for orthodontic treatment, while braces are more noticeable due to their metal brackets and wires.

In terms of comfort, clear aligners are made from smooth plastic, which means they are generally more comfortable than braces, which can sometimes cause irritation from metal wires and brackets.

Clear aligners are also removable, allowing you to maintain your normal diet without any restrictions. Braces, on the other hand, require patients to avoid certain foods that can damage the brackets and wires, such as sticky or hard foods.

Both treatment options are highly effective, but the timeline can vary. Clear aligners typically require 12 to 18 months of treatment, whereas braces often take 18 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

Overall, clear aligners offer a more flexible and less noticeable option for patients who want to straighten their teeth while continuing to live their normal lives with minimal disruption.