At Dougherty Orthodontics, we believe that clear aligners are an excellent option for achieving a straighter smile in a discreet and effective manner. However, it’s important to note that not all clear aligners are created equal. Opting for professional treatment from a qualified professional can influence the outcome of your smile treatment. Read below to learn why you should see a professional for clear aligner treatment.
Opting for a Professional for Clear Aligners
Choosing professional orthodontic care isn’t just a difference in price but in safety, quality, and comfort. At Dougherty Orthodontics, we take the time to know you, your story, and, most importantly, your smile.
Other options for clear aligners, like mail-in clear aligners, can present several risks and challenges that you should be aware of.
Problems with Mail-In Clear Aligners
Mail-in aligners have grown in popularity in the past few years because of their convenience and cost-effectiveness. However, what you save in a few dollars from mail-in aligners, you pay up for in other ways:
Limited Corrections: Mail-in aligners are designed to correct only minor smile problems. They’re not suitable for complex orthodontic issues, such as crowding or major bite problems. These limits can cause poor results or the need for more orthodontic work.
Evaluating the Success: Studies have shown that the effectiveness of mail-in clear aligners is often not nearly as good as that managed by professionals. The lack of custom-fit solutions, follow-up adjustments, and general problems can lead to less than happy results.
User Experiences: When you don’t have direct contact with your orthodontist, any problems or concerns you have are harder to address. From misleading advertising, not providing adequate care or even serious legal action, some mail-in companies can turn your smile treatment into a smile disaster.
Missing Professional Evaluations: Unlike normal orthodontic treatments, mail-in aligners often start with the patient taking an impression or pictures of them at home, which can lead to inaccuracies. Underlying or hard-to-spot issues can go unnoticed and untreated without a professional look.
Unmonitored Treatment: Orthodontic treatment at Dougherty Orthodontics doesn’t mean you get your clear aligners and we send you on your way. You’ll come back to see us every few weeks so we can check in on your smile’s status and make sure everything is moving along. Mail-in aligners don’t have this oversight, so one misstep at home can knock your whole journey off course.
Safety Concerns: With no guidance or custom-made plans for your treatment, the chance of injury skyrockets. Issues such as tooth mobility, loss of teeth, or even damage to the jaw are all more possible when you don’t see a professional.
Why Professional Orthodontic Care Matters
Professional orthodontic care at Dougherty Orthodontics can bring you the best results with clear aligners. From customized treatment planning to long-term satisfaction, you’ll enjoy a new smile all in a comfortable journey.
Dr. Dougherty uses detailed imaging techniques like X-rays and 3D scans to create a precise and personalized treatment just for you. This tailored approach addresses both aesthetic concerns and functional issues.
After crafting your treatment plan, you’ll have clear aligners that address potential issues that we spot in your consultation. With regular appointments, we’ll be able to monitor the progress of your clear aligner treatments and make adjustments when needed.
Once your clear aligner journey is complete, we’ll provide you with maintenance devices, such as retainers, to keep your new smile in its best shape. Dr. Dougherty will provide you with instructions on how to get the most out of your new smile.
Getting to Know Clear Aligners
Clear Aligners are plastic trays custom-made to fit snugly around your smile and adjust your teeth. They’re a great alternative to braces and are way less noticeable. Let’s look into how they work.
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligners are molded to the exact shape of your teeth, and as you progress through your treatment, each aligner will change slightly to keep moving your smile. You’ll normally change trays every one to two weeks.
The Steps Through Treatment
You’ll start with a free consultation, where we’ll review your smile and take scans of your teeth. Once we’ve collected everything, you’ll have your first set of custom-made aligners, which you’ll wear for about 20-22 hours daily.
What Makes Clear Aligners Stand Out
Clear aligners have tons of benefits. They’re less visible than braces, so you can go through treatment without anyone knowing. Clear aligners are smooth and more comfortable than braces. Of course, the best benefit is that clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, or cleaning to make life much easier.
Expert Services, Expert Care at Dougherty Orthodontics
When it comes to clear aligners, selecting professional orthodontic care is key to ensure that they’re tailored to meet your specific needs. At Dougherty Orthodontics, we take pride in providing orthodontic health care to all our patients. If you have any questions or are considering clear aligners, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Schedule your free consultation today to see us in St. Louis.