Want to know more about how clear aligners reposition your teeth? Awesome! Our Pechersky Orthodontics team wants you to understand the science behind clear aligners. It’s cool how your body can change itself, especially when it comes to your teeth. Dr. Pechersky uses clear aligners at our Pittsburgh and Monroeville clinics every day. The better we can educate you, the more you’ll feel in control of your treatment plan.
The Clarifying Power of Clear Aligners
Pressure creates diamonds, right? So the saying goes. That’s how clear aligners work — pressure. When you slide them on, they’re tight. That tight sensation is what helps move your teeth. With each new set, your teeth move a little further toward where Dr. Pechersky wants them.
One way our aligners have an edge over braces. You don’t have to make appointments to get them adjusted. We know that coming into our office is always a highlight for you (it is for us anyway). And we’ll miss seeing you. But we want your orthodontic treatment to be as convenient as possible. For most people, fewer appointments are better. Clear aligners help make that a reality.
Bone Remodeling 101
Your bones remodel themselves. That’s what helps our Pittsburgh and Monroeville teams remodel your smile. Clear aligners work with your body’s natural processes to reorient your teeth. The key? A process called bone remodeling. When aligners exert pressure on your teeth, they set off a chain reaction within your jaw that allows each tooth to shift over time.
As your aligners press on your teeth, they stimulate your bone and surrounding tissues to adapt. Specialized cells called “osteoclasts” start breaking down bone on one side of your tooth. Meanwhile, the osteoblasts also build new bone on the opposite side. The process reshapes the jawbone around your teeth so they can move without damage. Over time, the bone adjusts to support your new smile permanently.
Tips & Tricks for Clearing Up Your Treatment
Now you know a bit about how aligners from Pechersky Orthodontics work with your teeth. We covered bone remodeling at a glance. But what can you do at home to keep your treatment moving? We’re glad you asked! Dr. Pechersky has more than a few tips and tricks you can use.
With these in mind, you’ll settle into the process and be well on your way to the straight smile you’ve been looking forward to.
Freshen Up To Avoid Plaque Buildup (Yuck!)
Rinse, rinse, rinse! To keep your aligners clean and clear, rinse them with water. Do this any time you take them out. Soaking your aligners daily is a great way to deter plaque buildup. There are several solutions you can use, like retainer cleaner. Even a quick soak in mild mouthwash can do the trick. For more specific details, talk with Dr. Pechersky.
Orthodontic Treat-mints
Movemints are tiny, sugarless mints designed to help your aligners fit better. When you chew these mints, you’ll seat your aligners properly. Not only do they help with fit, but Movemints also give your breath a nice snap of minty flavor. They’re a simple, tasty way to make sure your aligners are always in the best position to move your teeth.
Always Go With H2O
Does your mouth ever feel as dry as a desert? Aligners can do that sometimes. Drinking water regularly helps more than you realize. Staying hydrated prevents that dryness and keeps your mouth feeling fresh and spiffy. Water also helps wash away particles (ick, no, thank you!) that could get trapped between your teeth and the aligners.
We’re Rooting For Your Routine
Our Pechersky Orthodontics team recommends wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours every day. To make it easier, establish a simple routine. Consider putting your aligners back in right after meals. Try to set a daily reminder for tray changes. And keep a case with you. Little mind tricks like these can help reinforce your routine and make it easy to stick to your treatment goals.
Case In Point
Always carry an aligner case when you’re on the move! Stashing aligners in a case while eating prevents you from misplacing or damaging them. It’s all too common for aligners to get tossed or lost without a case, so having one handy keeps your aligners safe and clean no matter where you are in Pittsburgh or Monroeville.
Count On Your Calendar
Aligner treatment works best when you change your trays on time. Following your scheduled aligner changes—usually every one to two weeks—keeps your treatment progressing. Set a reminder to make it easier to stay on top of things. Sticking to the timeline helps you see results and complete your treatment as planned.
Don’t Get Sore Anymore
When you first start or change aligners, mild soreness is normal. A cold-water rinse can soothe any early irritation. You may also look for over-the-counter pain relievers. Try chewing on soft, flexible items like Movemints to help settle in the fit.
Brush Up On Your Brushing
Just because you’re aligning doesn’t mean you get to quit brushing. Follow Dr. Pechersky’s instructions on brushing and flossing. Food particles or plaque can get stuck between your teeth and aligners. If that happens, you might notice unpleasant odors or staining.
Avoid Staining Drinks
Coffee, tea, and dark sodas can stain your aligners, which isn’t what you signed up for. Take your aligners out when drinking these beverages to avoid discoloration. If you prefer to keep your aligners in, using a straw can help keep liquids away from them. Clear aligners look best when stain-free, so a few mindful choices make a big difference.
Pick Pechersky Orthodontics For Your Aligners
Clear aligners do great things for patients in Pittsburgh and Monroeville. To find out more about aligners from Pechersky Orthodontics, go here to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Pechersky.
