
Apr
If you missed orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, you can still straighten your smile in adulthood. Spokane, Washington, residents can come to the office of Richard D. Weigand DDS for adult orthodontic treatment. Your Spokane orthodontist answers your questions about adult orthodontics here to help you decide if it’s right for you.
Straightening your teeth as an adult isn’t as complex as you think. Some treatment options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligner therapy. Clear aligners are a popular choice for adults as the process is easier and more convenient.
Dr. Richard Weigand will schedule a consultation to assess your smile and identify the problems that must be addressed. Using computer imaging technology, we’ll plan the movements of your teeth and customize aligners for your use to achieve optimal straightening results. The aligners work like braces, putting controlled pressure on your teeth to slowly shift them into alignment. You will move to a new pair of aligners every couple of weeks. Each set moves your teeth a little closer to achieving your smile goals. You can get quicker results by wearing the aligners 20 to 22 hours daily.
Unlike traditional braces, which stand out, clear aligners are hardly noticeable on your teeth and won’t affect your appearance. Clear aligners offer greater comfort and ease. They also fit better into the adult lifestyle, as you can remove your aligners for dining out or other special occasions.
You may experience some discomfort initially due to the pressure the aligners place on your teeth. Once you adjust to wearing the aligners, this discomfort will ease. Wearing the aligners will become second nature and routine.
Treatment times vary from person to person, as no two people have the same orthodontic issues. However, our clear aligner treatments take between 6 and 18 months to complete.
Cleaning the aligners is simple: You can gently brush them with clear, liquid soap and rinse with warm water. Daily washing will keep your aligners free of bacteria and debris. It’s also best to store the aligners in a safe place when not in use to avoid mishaps that can delay your treatment.
Dr. Weigand will give you a retainer to wear at night while you sleep to keep your teeth from shifting back to their original position.
For the best that clear aligner therapy has to offer, contact your Spokane, WA, orthodontist, Dr. Richard Weigand, at (509) 485-8620.
Dr. Richard Weigand is a highly respected dentist with over 40 years of experience. He is recognized for his cosmetic and general dentistry expertise. A Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and the World Clinical Laser Institute (WCLI), Dr. Weigand has had advanced training from the Las Vegas Institute and Spear Center for advanced dental studies. Dr. Weigand has been voted “Best Dentist” and “Best Cosmetic Dentist” for many years in Spokane, Washington. He volunteers with the Give Back a Smile program which serves victims of domestic abuse. His commitment to innovation and patient care makes him a trusted expert.