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Clear Aligners – Eugene, OR
Subtle Treatment, Straighter Smiles
Traditional metal braces may have once been the only way to straighten crooked teeth, but advancements in dentistry have now made it possible for patients to enjoy a more subtle method of treatment. With Clear Aligners in Eugene, our team at College Hill Dental can easily shift your pearly whites in the right direction without bringing attention to it. Similar to other clear aligner systems, Clear Aligners are BPA-free and do not require extra attachments to help teeth move. If you are interested in learning more about this unique orthodontic solution, give us a call today.
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear Aligners were first manufactured by Henry Schein Orthodontics in 2019. Serving as an alternative to traditional braces, these clear, plastic trays gently shift teeth into the proper position so that bites are more accurately aligned, and teeth are straighter.
A thorough, initial consultation is required by a dentist in Eugene, and digital images are taken to ensure the trays fit comfortably. Not requiring attachments like other clear aligner systems, Clear Aligners fits snugly against the teeth and has scalloped edges for a more comfortable approach to orthodontic treatment. Also, because they are made from a special material known as ClearWear, which is BPA-free, they are less likely to become stained or clouded over time.
Indications for Clear Aligners
Clear Aligners offer a level of versatility, which is great news for patients who prefer to avoid traditional metal braces. They are capable of treating:
Crowded Teeth
Lacking sufficient space between teeth can lead to an increased risk of decay, cavities, and gum disease. With Clear Aligners, however, we can generate the necessary space, allowing for better oral health and a more beautiful appearance.
Gaps Between Teeth
When too much space exists between teeth, it not only causes self-esteem issues but also makes eating and speaking more difficult. Using Clear Aligners, we can work to bring teeth closer together so that space is eliminated, and a more uniform appearance is achieved.
Bite Alignment
Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites are all treatable with the help of Clear Aligners. By shifting teeth in the appropriate direction, worn tooth enamel and chronic jaw pain can become a thing of the past, allowing you to enjoy a more pleasing aesthetic and functional smile.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
The benefits that come with Clear Aligners are endless. Patients who choose this new and innovative orthodontic solution can expect:
- A more comfortable approach to orthodontics because of the customized trays created just for your smile
- Scalloped edges that are designed to ensure greater comfort
- Flexibility that allows you to remove your trays before eating or drinking
- A more subtle form of treatment as opposed to metal braces that shine a spotlight on dental health
- Optimal results that include straighter teeth and more perfectly aligned bites
- An easy-to-clean solution
- Stain-resistant trays
Understanding the Cost of Clear Aligners
Have you been looking and looking for the price of clear aligner treatment, but unable to find an answer? That’s because no two patients are alike, so the cost varies from person to person! At your consultation, we will conduct a thorough exam and provide you with an estimate. We will answer any questions you have about the financial solutions we offer as well, but you’re welcome to read on to learn more in the meantime.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Clear Aligners
At your consultation, we need to conduct an exam to determine if you’re a candidate for clear aligners. If the answer is “yes,” then we will get to work on your custom treatment plan. In the process, we need to determine if preliminary treatments are necessary (i.e., gum disease treatment, tooth extraction, etc.), how many clear aligners you will need to complete treatment, the type of retainer you need, and if rubber bands, attachments, or buttons need to be added to your treatment plan. Then, we can give you an estimate of the cost and review the financial solutions we offer.
Are Mail-In Aligners Cheaper?
Mail-in aligner companies skip the initial consultation, use DIY impressions, aren’t overseen by licensed dental professionals, and don’t have a great track record. That’s why they are cheaper. So, don’t waste your valuable dollars on these alternatives that overpromise and underdeliver time and time again. Instead, talk to your dental team about the cosmetic dental services available and the financial solutions that can help you stay within your budget.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Clear Aligners?
Do you have dental insurance? Good news: our team would be more than happy to work to help maximize your dental insurance benefits. In fact, we welcome several of the nation’s leading providers, including Delta Dental, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and United Healthcare. That means, in addition to using your benefits to the fullest, we can help you understand them, file the paperwork, and answer any questions you have along the way. We can also discuss alternative payment options should they be necessary.
Other Options for Making Clear Aligners Affordable
One of the easiest ways to save on your dental care is by joining our in-house membership plan; routine dental checkups and cleanings are covered, and it comes with a 15% discount on all other dental treatments! We also welcome flexible financing with trusted third-party financiers, like CareCredit. That means that you don’t need to pay for the entire cost of clear aligners at once. Instead, you can set a monthly budget and break it up into smaller installments that work for you. If you want to learn more about the financial solutions we offer, then let us know!
Clear Aligner FAQs
Does Clear Aligner Treatment Hurt?
With pretty much every dental treatment, patients ask, “Will it hurt?” Don’t worry – our Eugene dental team is here to ensure that maintaining, restoring, and enhancing your smile is a painless process. With clear aligners specifically, we can even share tips on how to prevent soreness as you progress through the teeth-straightening process, like sipping on cool water and taking OTC pain medication as directed. In short, you shouldn’t let the fear of discomfort stop you from pursuing your dream smile!
Is There Anything I Can’t Eat with Clear Aligners?
There actually aren’t any dietary restrictions with clear aligners! There are, however, a few things you need to keep in mind when it comes to meals and snacks. The first is that you must remove your aligners first – no exceptions. The second is that you should exercise caution with extremely crunchy foods to prevent a chip or crack in your enamel. The third is that you must keep snacks with added sugar to a minimum so your smile stays healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Can I Drink Coffee with Clear Aligners?
As long as you remove your aligners first, yes! Since you only have a few hours of aligner-free time each day, we encourage our patients to drink coffee with their breakfast instead of sipping on it throughout the entire morning. Make sure that you brush your teeth when you’re done and put your aligners back on right away as well.
How Do I Clean My Clear Aligners?
Patients often assume that they will need to buy special products. That’s not the case! Keeping your aligners clean and clear is all about consistency. That means rinsing them with clean, cool water each time you take them off, storing them in their designated case when you aren’t wearing them, and using a damp, soft-bristled toothbrush to clean them before putting them back on. With all of that said, you can buy a clear aligner solution as well (this is often extremely helpful if you end up needing to wear your aligners longer than anticipated).
What Should I Do If I Lose One of My Clear Aligners?
Start with the age-old advice: retrace your steps. Since the aligners are clear, it’s important to go slow and be thorough. It’s also important that you look in the not-so-obvious places, like the floor of your bathroom, the waste bin in your kitchen, and the center console of your car. If you can’t find them anywhere, don’t just move onto the next set in the series (this can lead to treatment plan delays!). Instead, give us a call so we can see where you are in the teeth-straightening process and determine what to do from there.
