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FAQs about “adult-friendly” orthodontic treatment: Get to know removable clear aligners vs traditional braces

By Dr. Even Olson
Adult orthodontic treatment

The American Association of Orthodontists reports that nearly one out of every three orthodontic patients are an adult. And with so many options to straighten your teeth or to address orthodontic relapses, there really is no excuse to put off treatment at the office of Alpine Family Dental in Kalispell, Montana, for another day.

Can my teeth still be moved effectively as an adult?

Definitely! Orthodontic treatment is effective whether you are a pediatric patient or an adult patient. Its effectiveness does not wane because the same underlying principles and physiological processes are used to reposition the teeth.

Do I have to wear obvious braces?

Absolutely not. Today’s braces are lightweight and can be made from brackets and wires that are transparent or tooth-colored. Many adult patients prefer the ease, comfort, and discreet nature of aligners.

What are these “aligners”?

Instead of braces, we use a series of orthodontic appliances called clear aligners to place constant yet gentle pressure on the teeth. These forces gradually move the teeth through bone. They are based on the same fundamental principles as traditional orthodontic treatment with braces; however, the aligners are not fixed to the teeth. They can be removed by you at any time.

So, I can take the aligners out of my mouth whenever I want?

You can, but compliance with treatment is essential. It is generally advised to wear the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. You should only take them out of your mouth before brushing, flossing, and eating meals. Failure to wear the aligners as instructed by one of our dentists can delay the results of treatment.

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New Patients: (406) 393-8877 | Existing Patients: (406) 752-1107

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How long does it take to straighten my teeth with aligner therapy?

The total treatment time depends on many factors, including your needs and the severity of any misalignment or bite imbalances.  The average treatment time is twelve to eighteen, but some patients may straighten their teeth in as little as six months. Either way, treatment time with aligners is significantly shorter than with braces, which can require at least two years.

Do I have to visit Alpine Family Dental during treatment?

Yes! Our dentists will schedule periodic “check-ins.” We will evaluate your teeth to see how treatment is progressing. We can also provide you with the next set of aligners. In addition to wearing your aligner trays at all times (when not brushing, flossing, and eating). It is critical to wear each tray in the correct sequence. While the aligners look similar, slight nuances correspond to different stages of treatment. Our team in Kalispell, MT, provides suggestions for good cleaning products and techniques to keep your aligners stain-free and in top shape.

To schedule your clear aligner consultation, call (406) 393-8877 today.

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Dr. Evan Olson, D. ABDSM, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dentist. He completed his degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience at Montana State University in Bozeman and then attended The University of Iowa College of Dentistry. Dr. Olson then practiced in a Community Health setting for five years treating all types of dental emergencies. He then ran a private practice in Central Oregon for seven years before moving back to Montana to take over Alpine Family Dental.

Dr. Olson was recently named a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, which signifies extensive training and knowledge in treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea and snoring. He is a Fellow of The Implant Pathway Surgical Program, a Member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry, and a Mentor for the CEREC Doctors training program. He has completed significant continuing education in many areas of dentistry including with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Mastery Program, training on dental implants at Implant Pathway, Misch Institute, and Pikos Institute, an internship on root canals at the University of Iowa, cosmetic dentistry courses at CDOCS and Spear Education, and further studies on infant frenectomy and CAD/CAM techniques.

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Dr. Autumn Chapman received her degree in physiology from the University of Wyoming and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. She worked alongside her grandfather, Dr. Gerald Olson, in Havre, MT, before moving to Flathead Valley. Dr Chapman has been able to focus on education and training in facial esthetics and cosmetic dentistry. She has Training in orthodontics using suresmile clear aligners with CDOCs in Scottsdale and Training in Botox and filler with the american academy of facial esthetics.

Dr. Greg Eller obtained his degree in Aeronautical Maintenance and spent six years as a Skydiving Instructor. He then attended the University of Oregon where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in Pre-Medicine and the Oregon Health Sciences University Dental School. He is a member of the American Dental Association and Montana Dental Association and has IV moderate sedation training. After 14 years at Alpine Family Dental, Dr. Eller has now transitioned out of full-time practice.

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