Clear Braces in Highland Park, IL

If you want to straighten your teeth without traditional metal braces, clear braces and clear aligners can provide a discreet and convenient alternative. At Sommerfeld Dentistry, we offer clear braces in Highland Park, IL, using Invisalign® clear aligners to gradually move your teeth into a healthier, more attractive position.

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, removable clear aligners instead of metal brackets and wires. Treatment is planned using 3-D computer imaging and the expertise of Dr. Sommerfeld or Dr. Serlin to create a treatment plan based on your individual smile and orthodontic needs.

What Are Clear Braces?

Clear braces are an orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth without the appearance of traditional metal braces. Invisalign clear aligners are made from a transparent material and are custom-designed to fit your teeth.

Each set of aligners applies gentle, controlled pressure to gradually move your teeth. As you progress through your treatment plan, you will switch to the next set of aligners so your teeth continue moving toward their planned positions.

Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can take them out when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. This makes it easier to maintain your normal oral hygiene routine throughout treatment.

How Does Invisalign Clear Aligner Treatment Work?

Your clear braces treatment begins with an evaluation of your teeth and smile. Our team will determine whether Invisalign is appropriate for your orthodontic needs and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Using 3-D computer imaging, your aligners are designed to gradually move your teeth according to the treatment plan prescribed by Dr. Sommerfeld or Dr. Serlin. You will wear each set of aligners as directed before progressing to the next set.

As treatment progresses, you will periodically visit our Highland Park dental office so we can monitor your progress and make sure your teeth are moving as planned.

Benefits of Clear Braces

For patients who want to improve the alignment of their teeth without traditional braces, clear aligners offer several benefits:

• Discreet appearance: Clear aligners are designed to be less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
• Removable: You can remove your aligners when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
• Comfortable design: Clear aligners do not use traditional metal brackets and wires.
• Easier oral hygiene: Removing your aligners allows you to brush and floss your teeth normally.
• Personalized treatment: Your aligners are created based on your individual teeth and treatment plan.
• Predictable progression: Your teeth gradually move as you progress from one set of aligners to the next.

Am I a Candidate for Clear Braces?

Clear aligners may be an option for many teens and adults who want to improve the alignment of their teeth. Invisalign can be used to address a variety of alignment concerns, although the appropriate treatment depends on your individual teeth, bite, and oral health.

During your consultation, our team will evaluate your smile and discuss your goals to determine whether clear braces are an appropriate option for you. If another treatment would better address your needs, we can discuss those options with you as well.

How Long Does Clear Braces Treatment Take?

The length of Invisalign treatment varies from patient to patient. At Sommerfeld Dentistry, the current average treatment time is approximately 9 to 15 months, although your treatment timeline will depend on your individual needs and how your teeth respond to treatment.

The average number of aligners used during treatment is approximately 18 to 30, but the number can vary from case to case. Following your recommended wear schedule and attending your progress appointments can help keep treatment moving according to plan.

How Often Do I Need to Wear Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are designed to be worn throughout most of the day and removed when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Your dentist will provide specific instructions for your treatment.

Each aligner is designed to make gradual changes to the position of your teeth. Once you have completed the recommended wear period for one aligner, you will move on to the next aligner in your series.

How Often Will I Visit the Dentist During Treatment?

Regular appointments allow Dr. Sommerfeld or Dr. Serlin to monitor your progress and make sure your treatment is proceeding as planned. The current treatment approach at Sommerfeld Dentistry typically includes visits approximately every six weeks, although your appointment schedule may vary based on your individual treatment plan.

Can I Eat and Drink With Clear Aligners?

One of the advantages of removable clear aligners is that you can take them out when you eat and drink. Removing your aligners allows you to continue enjoying your normal meals without the dietary restrictions associated with some traditional orthodontic appliances.

After eating, brush your teeth when possible before putting your aligners back in. Maintaining good oral hygiene throughout treatment is important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

How Do I Clean My Teeth During Clear Aligner Treatment?

Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can continue brushing and flossing your teeth normally during treatment. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to help remove plaque and food particles.

Your aligners should also be kept clean according to the care instructions provided by our team. Good oral hygiene is particularly important during orthodontic treatment because food and plaque can become trapped around your teeth and contribute to cavities or gum problems.

Clear Braces in Highland Park, IL

If you are interested in straightening your teeth without traditional metal braces, clear aligners may be an option for you. Sommerfeld Dentistry provides clear braces in Highland Park, IL for patients who want a discreet approach to improving the alignment of their smiles.

Our office is located at 1893 Sheridan Road, Suite 309, in Highland Park and serves patients throughout the North Shore, including Deerfield, Lake Forest, Glencoe, Northbrook, Glenview, and Lake Bluff.

Contact Sommerfeld Dentistry to schedule a consultation and learn whether Invisalign clear aligners are right for your smile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Braces

Are clear braces the same as Invisalign?

Clear braces is a general term often used to describe discreet orthodontic treatments. Invisalign is a specific system that uses a series of custom-made clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The average treatment time at Sommerfeld Dentistry is approximately 9 to 15 months, although treatment length varies depending on each patient’s teeth, alignment concerns, treatment plan, and response to the aligners.

How often do I change Invisalign aligners?

Patients generally progress through a series of aligners according to the treatment schedule provided by their dentist. At Sommerfeld Dentistry, the current treatment information indicates that each set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks before moving to the next set.

Can I remove clear aligners to eat?

Yes. Invisalign clear aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out when eating and drinking. You can also remove them when brushing and flossing your teeth.

Are clear braces noticeable?

Invisalign clear aligners are made from transparent material and are designed to be much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. This makes them a discreet option for patients who want to straighten their teeth.

How often will I need appointments during Invisalign treatment?

Patients typically visit Sommerfeld Dentistry approximately every six weeks during treatment so Dr. Sommerfeld or Dr. Serlin can monitor progress. Your appointment schedule may vary based on your individual treatment plan.