Clear Aligner Therapy

The duration of clear aligner therapy in Flint varies depending on the complexity of each case. Most patients complete treatment within 6 to 18 months. Mild cases, such as minor spacing or slight misalignment, may take as little as six months, while more complex cases involving significant crowding or bite issues may require closer to 18 months or longer. 

At Axcel Dental, we use advanced 3D scanning and digital treatment planning to provide an accurate estimate of your aligner therapy timeline in Flint before you begin. Regular check-ins help ensure that your teeth are moving according to plan, and in some cases, treatment can be completed even faster than expected. 

Clear aligners are designed for maximum comfort, but like any orthodontic treatment, you may experience some mild discomfort—especially when switching to a new set of aligners. This discomfort is typically described as pressure or tightness rather than sharp pain and usually subsides within a few days as your teeth adjust. 

If you experience prolonged discomfort, Axcel Dental can provide tips for relief, such as using orthodontic wax, over-the-counter pain relievers, or adjusting your wear schedule as needed. Our clear aligner therapy in Flint is tailored to make your journey as comfortable as possible. 

One of the biggest benefits of clear aligners is that they are removable, meaning you can eat and drink whatever you like without worrying about food restrictions. However, to avoid staining or damaging your aligners, it is recommended that you remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water. 

Foods and drinks that are particularly staining—such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas—can discolor your aligners if consumed while wearing them. Additionally, hot beverages can warp the plastic, affecting the fit of your aligners. 

For best results, brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in after meals to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent plaque buildup during your aligner therapy in Flint. 

Proper care and maintenance of your aligners are essential to keep them clear, odor-free, and free from bacterial buildup. Here are the best ways to clean them: 

• Use a soft toothbrush (not the same one used for your teeth) and mild, clear antibacterial soap to gently brush your aligners daily. 

• Avoid toothpaste, as some contain abrasives that can scratch and dull your aligners. 

• Use aligner cleaning solutions such as Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, denture cleaners, or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions to deep-clean your aligners. 

• Soak aligners for 15-30 minutes in lukewarm water with a cleaning solution at least once a day to remove bacteria and stains. 

• Rinse aligners thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water before placing them back in your mouth. 

Following these cleaning guidelines will help keep your aligners looking clear and fresh while ensuring they remain effective in straightening your teeth. Patients choosing clear aligner therapy in Flint can enjoy lasting results with proper care.