Want to fix crooked teeth without metal braces? Clear aligners are nearly invisible plastic trays that gently straighten your teeth over time. They’re perfect for teens and adults who want to improve their smile without anyone noticing they’re wearing braces.
At Mohr Smiles in Tucson, Dr. Jennifer Mohr uses these comfortable aligners to:
- Fix crowded or gapped teeth
- Correct bite problems without wires and brackets
- Give you a straighter and healthier smile
We offer clear and comfortable trays you can take out when you eat or brush. Are you ready to straighten your smile the easy way with this cosmetic dental treatment? Let’s talk about how clear aligners can work for you.
Clear Aligners in Tucson, AZ
Clear aligners provide many benefits compared to traditional braces. Since they’re removable, you can take them out to eat your favorite foods and brush your teeth normally. You won’t have to deal with uncomfortable metal wires or brackets that can irritate your mouth.
While clear aligners work great for fixing mild to moderate teeth alignment issues, they might not be the best choice for more complex cases. Dr. Jennifer Mohr will examine your teeth and talk with you about your smile goals to decide if clear aligners are right for you.
How Clear Aligner Treatment Works
We use advanced computer technology to design your custom aligners. First, we create a 3D model of your teeth that shows exactly how they’ll move during treatment. You’ll wear each set of clear plastic trays for about two weeks before moving to the next set. Most people finish treatment in 12 months to two years, depending on how much their teeth need to move.
Your journey begins with a consultation at Mohr Smiles. Dr. Mohr will check your teeth and discuss your options. If clear aligners are a good fit, we’ll take digital scans of your mouth to create your personalized series of aligners. These custom trays will gently guide your teeth into their new positions over time.
Wearing your aligners is simple. Just pop them in and go about your day. You’ll need to keep them in for 20-22 hours daily. Only removing them to eat, drink anything besides water, and brush your teeth. Every two weeks, you’ll switch to a new set of aligners that continue moving your teeth little by little.
We’ll schedule check-ins with Dr. Mohr every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress. These quick visits help make sure your treatment stays on track. Most people adjust to wearing aligners within a few days. You might feel slight pressure when starting a new set, but this just means they’re working.
The Clear Choice for Straighter Teeth
Clear aligners like Invisalign offer a modern way to straighten teeth without metal braces. These nearly invisible plastic trays gently shift your teeth over time, working especially well for mild to moderate alignment issues. Unlike traditional braces with wires and brackets, clear aligners are smooth, comfortable, and hardly noticeable when you smile.
Crooked or gapped teeth can lead to puffy, irritated gums and increase your risk of gum disease. When teeth are properly aligned, your gums fit snugly around them and have a stronger defense against oral health problems. Straight teeth don’t just look better, they’re healthier too.
Traditional braces make brushing and flossing tricky, often leaving food stuck in wires where plaque can build up. With removable clear aligners, you simply take them out to brush and floss normally. This means cleaner teeth, fresher breath, and less chance of cavities during your treatment.
The convenience and comfort of clear aligners make them a popular choice for teens and adults alike. You can eat all your favorite foods without restrictions, and no one has to know you’re straightening your teeth unless you tell them.
Maintenance and Care
With the proper care, you can help your aligners last as well as keep your smile clean. Follow these tips to keep your aligners in the best shape:
- Rinse them with lukewarm water every time you remove them. This prevents bacteria buildup and keeps them clear and odor-free. Never use hot water because it can melt them.
- Clean them daily using a soft toothbrush and mild, clear soap. Never use toothpaste on them because it can scratch them.
- Keep them in their protective case so you won’t lose or damage them.
- Regular cleaning prevents plaque buildup and keeps your aligners transparent. Clean them every morning and night when you brush your teeth.
To achieve the best results, wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day. Only remove them for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. Follow Dr. Mohr’s instructions and attend scheduled check-ups to monitor your progress. These steps ensure that your treatment stays on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do clear aligners cost compared to traditional braces?
Clear aligners typically cost about the same as metal braces, usually between $3,000-$8,000 depending on your treatment plan. We offer payment plans to make treatment affordable.
Many dental insurance plans cover them just like braces. Check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits. Dr. Mohr’s office can also verify coverage and discuss financing options to make the treatment more affordable.
Will clear aligners affect how I talk?
You might notice a slight lisp for the first few days as you adjust. Most people speak normally after this short adjustment period. Practicing speaking and reading aloud helps you adapt faster.
Can I drink coffee or soda while wearing my aligners?
It’s best to only drink water while wearing them. Coffee, tea, soda or colored drinks can stain your aligners. Always remove them for other beverages and rinse your teeth before putting them back in.
What happens if I lose or break an aligner?
Don’t panic and call us right away. Depending on your treatment stage, we may have you wear the next set early or order a replacement. Always keep your previous set as a backup.
How painful are clear aligners?
You’ll feel pressure when starting a new set, but it’s much less painful than metal braces. The discomfort usually lasts 1-2 days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can I chew gum with aligners in?
No, gum will stick to your aligners. You’ll need to remove them before chewing gum. The same goes for any food. You should always take out your aligners before eating.
Will aligners whiten my teeth too?
While aligners themselves don’t whiten teeth, we can provide whitening gel that works with your trays. Many patients choose to whiten during treatment for a brighter smile when finished.
What happens after I finish treatment?
You’ll get custom retainers to keep your teeth in their new position. Like aligners, these are clear and removable. Most people wear them full-time at first, then just at night long-term to maintain results.
Schedule a Visit Today
Clear aligners are a convenient and effective way to get a straighter smile. Under the expert care of Tucson dentist Dr. Mohr, patients love the benefits of this modern orthodontic solution. Schedule a consultation online or give us a call at 520-660-5666 today.