ClearCorrect is a modern orthodontic treatment that realigns teeth using removable and virtually invisible plastic aligners instead of irremovable and conspicuous metal braces. While these remarkable devices are designed to fit snugly over the teeth, they will not protect your pearly whites from cavities. Here’s a brief guide to how tooth decay can develop during ClearCorrect treatment and how you can keep your smile healthy.
How Does ClearCorrect Work?
Each ClearCorrect patient receives a customized sequence of clear aligners crafted to precisely fit over their teeth based on detailed digital measurements of their mouth. Each set of aligners is designed to gradually shift the teeth into healthier positions. The patient will switch to the next set of aligners in their sequence every two weeks, and each set will pick the treatment up where the last one left off. It typically takes six to eighteen months for ClearCorrect to properly realign the patient’s smile.
How Can Cavities Form During ClearCorrect Treatment?
ClearCorrect clear aligners fit quite snugly over either dental arch, so much so that they will protect any plaque and food debris clinging to the teeth from the mouth’s natural cleaning process. The patient is required to wear their aligners for at least twenty hours every day, so failing to practice proper oral hygiene will allow harmful oral bacteria to wreak havoc on their smile undeterred. This can lead to treatment-delaying cavities as well as stubborn dental stains.
How Can I Prevent Cavities During ClearCorrect Treatment?
Luckily, protecting your teeth from cavities during ClearCorrect treatment only requires a simple oral hygiene regimen. This includes:
- Thoroughly brushing and flossing after each meal before reinserting your clear aligners.
- Using antibacterial mouthwash regularly to control bacterial populations.
- Cleaning your clear aligners with an approved cleansing agent daily.
- Limiting your consumption of acidic and sugary foods and beverages.
Don’t let preventable cavities hinder your journey to a healthier and more beautiful smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to keep your teeth in great shape throughout the ClearCorrect process.
About the Author
Dr. Ramona Rivera earned her dental degree from NYU School of Dentistry in 2010 and has completed the Loma Linda University Maxi Dental Implant program. She proudly serves as a member of the California Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dentistry. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as ClearCorrect services. To learn more about the ClearCorrect process, contact her office online or dial (916) 967-2217.