The number of people choosing clear aligners has soared in recent years, reshaping the way we think about orthodontics. But it raises a serious question: what is it about clear aligners that makes them so appealing? How can a series of thin plastic trays compete with the time-tested wires and brackets of traditional braces? At first glance, it seems almost improbable that something so lightweight and discreet could take on the heavy machinery of orthodontics. Yet clear aligners have managed to capture both public interest and professional respect, creating a cultural shift in how we approach straightening teeth. Their rise points to a larger shift driven by innovation and the new standards patients now look for.
What Is the Secret to the Success of Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners work by activating your body’s natural ability to adapt and change. Each aligner is custom-made to apply gentle, targeted pressure to specific teeth. As the aligner shifts a tooth in a new direction, it triggers a series of changes deep within the surrounding tissues.
When pressure is applied to one side of a tooth, the periodontal ligament compresses slightly, prompting special cells called osteoclasts to begin breaking down bone in that area. At the same time, the ligament stretches on the opposite side, which activates osteoblasts to start building new bone. This dual process, known as bone remodeling, allows the tooth to move gradually while keeping it stable and supported.
As patients move from one aligner to the next, the forces remain light and consistent. This steady progression helps avoid damaging tissues while encouraging a healthy response from the bone and ligaments. Even the gums adjust during this process, reshaping to support each tooth in its new position.
Clear aligners are successful because they guide this biological process with precision. Rather than forcing movement, they work in harmony with the body’s natural rhythm. This results in a more comfortable experience for the patient and a more controlled, predictable outcome.
What To Expect From Your Treatment With Clear Aligners
Step 1: Starting With a Personalized Consultation
Clear aligner treatment begins with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Bratton. He’ll take the time to understand your goals, review your dental history, and examine your teeth and bite carefully. One of the most important tools he uses during this visit is a CBCT. This advanced 3D imaging gives a detailed view of your teeth, jawbone, nerve pathways, and surrounding structures. It’s crucial for identifying any potential issues and building a treatment plan that’s both safe and precise.
In addition to the scan, Dr. Bratton collects photographs and digital impressions of your teeth. These detailed records create a clear, up-to-date model of your mouth, forming the foundation for your customized treatment.
Step 2: Creating a Custom Treatment Plan
Next, Dr. Bratton uses cutting-edge software to turn your scans and digital impressions into a complete 3D model. This model allows him to simulate how your teeth will move over time and design a treatment sequence tailored specifically to your anatomy. This step sets clear expectations and gives you a roadmap to your new smile.
Once the plan is finalized, your custom aligners are created. Each one is engineered to move specific teeth according to the digital plan, using the detailed data captured during your scans. The aligners are transparent, slim, and designed for comfort while delivering the exact pressure needed to guide your teeth through each stage of movement.
Step 3: Wearing Aligners and Monitoring Progress
You’ll start with the first set of aligners, wearing them for 20 to 22 hours a day. They should only be removed when you eat, drink anything besides water, or brush and floss. Each set of aligners is worn for approximately one to two weeks before progressing to the next in the series. This steady progression helps ensure your teeth move safely and efficiently.
Throughout this phase, you may notice subtle shifts in your bite and alignment. These are signs that the biological process of bone remodeling is actively working to support your new tooth positions. Dr. Bratton will schedule checkups every six to eight weeks, depending on your specific plan. During these visits, he’ll assess how your teeth are responding and make sure everything is progressing according to plan.
Step 4: Finishing Treatment and Maintaining Results
Once your teeth have reached their final position, Dr. Bratton will transition you into the retention phase. This is a critical step for long-term success. You’ll receive custom retainers to help keep your new smile stable. Initially, you’ll wear them full-time, but over time, you’ll transition to nighttime use to maintain your results.
Discover What Clear Aligners Can Do for You
At Atkins Dental, Dr. Bratton relies on advanced imaging and careful planning to create a clear aligner process that’s tailored to you. Contact us to book a consultation. You’ll have the chance to see your smile in detail, understand how the treatment works, and explore how aligners can transform your smile!
