SureSmile® clear aligners offer a minimally invasive, comfortable alternative to traditional metal braces. The Suresmile aligners gently exert pressure on the teeth, so they move into a straighter position. We customize the SureSmile aligners by using an intraoral scanner to capture images of the smile. Then, we work with the SureSmile lab to create a series of aligners that gradually straighten teeth over time. Learn more about SureSmile and if you’re a candidate for this orthodontic treatment in our Columbus, GA, dental office.
Am I A Candidate for SureSmile?
Before every treatment, we meet with patients to discuss their goals and specific oral health needs. Our team will ensure that SureSmile aligns with what patients want for their smile and ensure their candidacy for treatment.
We recommend SureSmile for adults who want to address crooked teeth, an imbalanced bite, and gaps between teeth. SureSmile can also treat overbites, underbites, and open bites. We do not recommend SureSmile for patients who experience bruxism or teeth clenching and grinding. Bruxism can damage the SureSmile aligners. We also will not recommend SureSmile for children. The aligners work on adults with a fully matured jawline and tooth structure.
Patients who choose SureSmile treatment must also be committed to wearing their aligners for the appropriate amount of time and caring for their aligners.
How to Care for SureSmile Aligners
During SureSmile treatment, you need to clean your aligners daily to prevent bacterial buildup and keep your aligners fresh. You can soak your aligners in a mouthguard cleaner. Once they’re done soaking, you can gently brush the inside of the aligners as needed.
You need to remove your SureSmile aligners to eat and drink, although you can drink cold water with the aligners on your teeth. After you’ve finished eating, you can clean your smile and your aligners. It’s important to keep the aligners clean to prevent staining and bacterial buildup.
Patients must also wear their SureSmile aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Wearing the aligners for the appropriate amount of time keeps patients on track to completing their treatment in a timely manner.
Patient Comfort: SureSmile vs. Braces
Traditional metal braces use wires and brackets to shift teeth into a straighter position. While traditional braces can treat patients with more complex orthodontic needs, SureSmile can be a more comfortable alternative. During regular visits, braces patients often need new wires and tightened brackets. Tightening the brackets can cause more pain, and new wires can poke and irritate the gum tissue.
While SureSmile patients will need to get accustomed to their new aligners, the aligners should not irritate the gum tissue. Patients may feel mild discomfort when they get a new pair of aligners. However, this will fade after a day or two. Ultimately, SureSmile can provide a more comfortable, streamlined process for orthodontic patients.
Do you want to treat crooked teeth, tooth gaps, or another orthodontic problem? Are you interested in SureSmile treatment? Call (706) 407-4851 or request a dental consultation with Dr. Albert Caves on our website.