Am I a candidate for clear aligners?
Most kids, teens, and adults are excellent candidates for clear aligners. The best way to find out is a free consultation with Dr. MacKenzie, who will assess your specific needs and recommend the right treatment path. Generally, if you are a candidate for braces, you are a candidate for clear aligners as well. Whether you are dealing with moderate to severe crowding, spacing, deep bites, or even complex situations requiring jaw surgery, clear aligners can be an incredibly effective tool.
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case. Most patients finish their clear aligner treatments in our office in 12–18 months. For patients who need minor alignment, Invisalign touch-up is a cost-effective, short treatment option that takes about 3 months. For very complex cases, such as impacted canines, tooth extractions, or surgical treatment, the treatment could be longer than two years.
Will aligners affect my speech?
Most patients do not experience any speech difficulties. Any minor changes in speech, such as a slight, temporary lisp, can only be heard by the patient and adjust within a few days typically disappears quickly as you get used to wearing your aligners. The more you practice, the faster you get used to speaking with your aligners.
How many hours per day do I wear them?
Clear aligners have to be worn 22 hours per day in order to work properly. You remove them to eat, and to brush and floss. You can drink water, coffee and tea with them in, but you should remove them for sugary or acidic drinks such as pop or juice to prevent cavities.
What if I am from out of province or out of the country?
We regularly treat patients from Northern Maine, many cities all over New Brunswick. We also have patients who live in Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario, and even British Columbia. Remote monitoring technology means many check-ins can happen virtually. Ask us about our process for out-of-province patients at your consultation.
Do clear aligners hurt?
Most patients describe a sensation of mild pressure or tightness rather than pain, particularly during the first 24 to 48 hours after putting on a fresh set of aligners. The pressure of aligners is much less than the pressure of traditional braces. An excellent solution to the pressure from aligners is the Dental Pain Eraser.
How do I keep my clear aligners clean?
Every time you take them out to eat, brush them using a soft-bristled toothbrush and regular toothpaste. Avoid using scalding hot water, as it can warp the medical-grade plastic. Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in to avoid trapping food particles. If you do not have your toothbrush and toothpaste with you, rinse really well with water and brush them at home.
What are those tooth-coloured bumps on my teeth? (Attachments)
During your clear aligner journey, you may notice small, tooth-coloured composite shapes bonded to your teeth. These are called orthodontic attachments. They act as tiny anchors that give the aligner plastic something to grip, helping to guide complex tooth movements (like rotating a tooth or pulling it down) with maximum precision. They are entirely temporary and blend right into your smile! We will remove them at the end of your treatment.
Will I need to wear a retainer after my aligner treatment is finished?
Yes, wearing a retainer after your treatment is completed is absolutely non-negotiable. Your teeth have a natural memory and will want to shift back to their original positions over time. To protect your investment and maintain your beautiful new alignment, Dr. MacKenzie will custom-fit you for a durable clear retainer to wear while you sleep.