ClearCorrect – Springfield, MO
A Clear, Simple Alternative to Metal Braces
Straight, beautiful teeth are among the most fundamental components of a radiant, attractive smile. For many teens and adults, the benefits of perfectly aligned teeth seem out of reach – traditional metal braces simply don’t appeal to everyone, and the thought of undergoing orthodontic treatment to correct misalignment is an unpleasant one at best. Fortunately, Dr. Olson does offer a solution that helps you achieve straight teeth and a more confident smile without the need for brackets and metal wires: ClearCorrect aligners. To learn more about this solution, continue reading!
How ClearCorrect Works
First, Dr. Olson will evaluate your teeth and discuss your options with you in detail. An impression will be taken of your dentition and sent to ClearCorrect’s lab so that your aligners can be custom-made using advanced 3D printing technology. Your aligners will be sent to our office where you’ll pick them up and begin wearing them right away, putting you on the path to a straighter, healthier smile.
You’ll wear your ClearCorrect custom aligners throughout the day and night, removing them when you eat, drink, or brush and floss your teeth. Because they’re virtually invisible and completely comfortable, no one will be able to tell that you’re wearing them, and they won’t affect your daily life. As you move through each phase of your aligners, you’ll notice the gradual change as your teeth are gently shifted into their proper position.
Indications for ClearCorrect
ClearCorrect can be used to treat several malocclusions, including:
Crowded Teeth
Do you find it difficult to clean your teeth due to overcrowding? This can lead to increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. ClearCorrect can effectively space out your teeth for improved oral health.
Gaps Between Teeth
Not only can gaps affect your smile's aesthetics, but they can also pose risks to your oral health. Food particles lodged in these spaces can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infections. ClearCorrect can realign your teeth, eliminating these gaps and improving oral hygiene.
Bite Alignment
Issues like overbite, underbite, or crossbite can escalate the risk of TMJ disorder and bruxism, leading to discomfort and tooth damage. ClearCorrect can correct these bite problems, promoting a healthier bite and overall oral well-being.
The Benefits of ClearCorrect
The most obvious benefit will be what you don’t see. ClearCorrect is far less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Sure, you can see them at close range, but otherwise you’ll be able to confidently engage in your normal social and professional appointments.
ClearCorrect braces are removable, too, so you’ll be able to eat whatever you like. Just take off your braces at mealtimes and enjoy all the foods you normally eat. Similarly, you’ll be able to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing can be more difficult with metal brackets and wires attached to your teeth. ClearCorrect allows you to brush and floss as usual, thereby avoiding any greater risk of decay or gum disease.
Understanding the Cost of ClearCorrect
Initially pricier than traditional braces, modern orthodontic treatments like ClearCorrect now offer comparable costs due to technological advancements. We can provide an accurate price estimate following your initial consultation with our team. Addressing orthodontic issues promptly with ClearCorrect yields long-term benefits, including reduced teeth grinding and jaw pain, leading to improved oral health and potential future savings. To learn more about the expected cost of ClearCorrect in Springfield, click on the button below.
Factors that Affect the Cost of ClearCorrect
Every smile is unique, which means each treatment plan is tailored accordingly. Before providing a cost estimate, Dr. Olson will conduct an initial examination to assess:
- The severity of your dental misalignment
- The number of trays required to achieve your desired smile goals
- Whether additional accessories, such as rubber bands, are necessary to address your bite alignment
Additionally, compliance is a crucial factor to consider. Sticking to the 22-hour-a-day wear-time is necessary because the aligners only exert their corrective effects while they are worn. That said, to achieve your desired results efficiently and effectively, it's essential to adhere diligently to all treatment guidelines.
ClearCorrect vs. Mail-In Aligners: Which Costs More?
When comparing the upfront cost of ClearCorrect and mail-in aligners, you'll quickly notice that the latter is more affordable. However, before allowing this to heavily influence your decision, it's crucial to take the full scope into account.
While ClearCorrect has a higher initial cost, it also encompasses a comprehensive initial examination and follow-up appointments with a licensed dental practitioner. Additionally, their treatment approach is endorsed by reputable professional organizations such as the American Dental Association. Unfortunately, the same level of assurance cannot be guaranteed with mail-order aligners. Therefore, as is often the case, opting for the cheaper option may not necessarily yield superior results.
Does Dental Insurance Cover ClearCorrect?
The good news is that most dental insurance plans do offer coverage for orthodontic treatments, such as ClearCorrect. It’s highly recommended to carefully review the details outlined in your dental policy. Should you encounter any challenges understanding your benefits, please feel free to reach out to our team directly. Despite being out-of-network, we are more than happy to assist you by filing your claims to ensure that you maximize the benefits available to you.
Options for Making ClearCorrect Affordable
If you don’t have dental insurance, don’t worry – we offer an alternative financing option. CareCredit is a third-party financing service that allows you to divide your payments into convenient monthly installments. As a result, ClearCorrect becomes accessible to almost any budget! What's more, there are options with low-to-no interest rates available. If you believe this could be the budget-friendly solution you've been seeking, feel free to contact our team for more information.
ClearCorrect FAQs
How Long Does ClearCorrect Take?
The duration of ClearCorrect treatment varies based on the severity of your misalignment and your diligence to the treatment plan. Generally, ClearCorrect takes between 12 to 18 months to complete. For very mild misalignments, treatment can be as short as 6 months. While 18 months might seem lengthy, it is still 4 months shorter on average than traditional braces. Visiting your dentist regularly and following your dentist’s instructions closely will help you complete your treatment as soon as possible.
Is ClearCorrect Cheaper Than Braces?
The overall treatment cost for ClearCorrect and traditional braces are quite similar, averaging around $5,000. However, the exact price varies based on factors such as the severity of your misalignment and your commitment to the treatment plan.
In some cases, ClearCorrect can be more expensive since it’s not typically covered by insurance. Of course, every policy is unique, and some may offer partial coverage. Despite potentially higher costs, many patients find ClearCorrect worth the investment due to its benefits. Always check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options before deciding.
How Do I Clean My ClearCorrect?
To clean your plastic aligners, you can use cleaning crystals to effectively remove food debris and plaque. Alternatively, you can gently clean your trays with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse them throughout the day to prevent debris buildup. Be sure to always use room temperature water, as hot water can warp the plastic. Additionally, maintain good oral hygiene by thoroughly cleaning your teeth to avoid trapping plaque and bacteria between your teeth and aligners.
Does ClearCorrect Give You a Lisp?
With ClearCorrect, there may be an initial adjustment period for your speech. Some patients might develop a minor lisp due to the aligners altering the space within the mouth and affecting tongue placement. However, many patients do not experience this issue. If a lisp occurs, it’s usually very minor and temporary, typically resolving within a few weeks as your tongue adjusts to the aligners. The best way to speed up the adjustment process is by talking frequently, as regular speech practice helps your tongue learn to maneuver around the aligners more effectively.