clear aligner therapy in Mukilteo

What is a clear aligner therapy?

Clear aligner therapy, or CAT, is a custom-made clear dental appliance that gradually straightens a patient’s smile by applying gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth. Patients struggling with crowded or gapped teeth may be suitable candidates for clear aligner therapy. Because the aligners are made of clear thermoplastic material, CAT is a great solution for patients looking to discreetly align their smile.

Did you know…

In some cases, clear aligners can provide faster results than traditional braces.

Ready to schedule your appointment?

Call (425) 609-0230 Today

How it works: The clear aligner therapy process

Consultation

At your consultation, your dentist will determine if clear aligner therapy is right for you. First, your dentist will examine your gum health and teeth to check for gaps and crowding. They will also discuss your smile goals and develop a treatment plan made just for you.

Impressions and Digital Imaging

Our dentist will then take a series of digital images of your teeth, photographs of your smile, and a digital scan of your tooth surfaces. Once this is complete, your dentist will send your images and scan to a special laboratory to make your first several sets of clear aligners.

Fitting and Next Steps

Once your aligners are complete, your dentist will check them to ensure proper fit and alignment. You’ll wear each set per the dentist’s instructions, usually for 20-22 hours each day, and switch them out every 2 weeks. Every 6 weeks, you’ll stop by our office to pick up your next few sets of aligners and so the doctor can check your teeth to make sure they’re tracking.

Types of clear aligners

View Our Services

Suresmile

SureSmile aligners differ from other clear aligner options because they are created with Essix ACE plastic, an industry leader in aligner fabrication. SureSmile uses patented software where each of your teeth are assessed, meaning that SureSmile can fix more complicated misalignment issues such as over/underbites. They are a great alternative to improve your smile from their nearly invisible appearance and durability.

Did you know…

There are no limitations to the foods you can eat while wearing clear aligners.

Interested in aligning your teeth?

Call (425) 609-0230 to schedule

Have questions about clear aligner therapy? Find answers here.

How do clear aligners work?

Downward Arrow Icon

Clear aligners gradually straighten your teeth over an extended period of time. Each aligner tray is custom-made to ensure your teeth are slightly straighter than the previous one. Trays are replaced every two weeks until your smile has reached its optimal result. For most cases, it can take up to a year to correct your smile.

Are clear aligners safe?

Downward Arrow Icon

Yes! All aligners are made of medical grade BPA-free clear plastic, which means that they are both safe and comfortable to wear.

Are clear aligners faster than traditional braces?

Downward Arrow Icon

While time frames vary based on each individual patient’s needs, clear aligner therapy is known to provide quicker results than traditional braces. This is because aligners gently push on all teeth as a whole, whereas braces pull each tooth individually. In order to achieve the results you are looking for, it is crucial to follow your dentist’s instructions for wearing your custom-made clear aligners.

What is the difference between clear alignment therapy and traditional braces?

Downward Arrow Icon

Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners gently and discreetly shift your teeth without any noticeable or uncomfortable metal brackets and wires. Clear aligners are also minimally invasive, so most patients find them far more comfortable than traditional braces. Since clear aligners are easily removable, you can quickly take them out for photos and functions and place them back in at any time. However, clear aligners are not suited for everyone. If you are struggling with issues such as a malpositioned jaw or a severely misaligned bite, braces will offer a more versatile and powerful orthodontic treatment.

How much do clear aligners cost?

Downward Arrow Icon

The cost of clear aligners is different for each patient. Factors that may affect the cost of your clear aligner therapy include the aligner brand, appointment and visits, insurance type, and more. The best way to find out how much you’ll pay for clear aligner therapy is to schedule a consultation with your dentist.

Did you know…

Clear aligners are removable and easy to clean.

Ready for your next dental appointment?

Schedule Now