
Feb
Today, both our teen and adult patients alike from throughout northeastern Maryland can benefit from alternatives to traditional orthodontic treatment with braces at Hunt Valley Dental. These alternatives include SureSmile® clear aligners.
SureSmile® falls under a category of oral appliances called “clear aligners.” Traditionally, braces have been the “go-to” treatment for correcting crowded or otherwise misaligned teeth and “bite” (“overbite,” “underbite,” and so on). These braces were made up of a system of silver-colored metal wires threaded through stainless steel brackets, fixed (“non-removable”) with small bands or “o-rings.”
Since the braces can only be removed or adjusted by your dental professional, it requires a series of visits to the orthodontist’s office.
SureSmile® is far different. These aligners can be removed at any time. They simply slip in and out of the tooth. Now, compliance or recommended wear time is essential to ensure treatment progresses as planned and on schedule. That means our dentist, Dr. Thomas Rhodes, generally recommends that aligners only be removed when eating and cleaning the teeth.
Since the aligners can be removed easily, the challenges to comfortable eating and good oral hygiene associated with traditional braces are eliminated. You maintain the good hygiene that is necessary to prevent dental decay and gum disease during your orthodontic treatment. Additionally, your nutrition does not suffer during treatment. You can enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about wires or other components breaking or food getting stuck in parts of your braces.
Additionally, SureSmile® aligners are made from high-quality and safe advanced plastic. This plastic is transparent and not visible when you smile. Your confidence throughout treatment is maintained.
Call (410) 771-6300 to schedule your SureSmile® consultation at Hunt Valley Dental.
During your consult, Dr. Rhodes can make a highly accurate, three-dimensional model of your mouth. This model both guides treatment and aids in your understanding of the process, as it shows you exactly how your teeth will be straightened throughout treatment. With proper wear time (around 23 hours each day), you can achieve your “goal smile” in approximately six to nine months.