Affordable Invisalign Alternatives in Salem, Silverton, Stayton, & Woodburn
At Bryan Johnson Orthodontics, we’re constantly striving to bring more value and convenience to our patients in Salem, OR when it comes to their orthodontic treatment. Not only do we offer traditional braces, but we’re also committed to staying on the cutting-edge of technology so that we can provide a broader range of treatments as well. One such example we offer is our clear aligner orthodontic treatment.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Like traditional braces, clear aligners work to shift a patient’s teeth into a straighter and more attractive alignment by using gradual force. However, these clear, removable aligners will straighten a smile without the need for metal brackets and wires. These aligners are made of a strong plastic material and are custom-made to fit a patient’s mouth. Your orthodontist will give you a series of aligners that are meant to be worn in a designated order. You’ll wear each one for two weeks until moving onto the next set.
For the aligners to reach their maximum effectiveness, you’ll need to wear them for about 20 to 22 hours a day, only taking them out for eating, cleaning your teeth, and important occasions.
What Are the Benefits of Clear Aligners?
Some of the benefits that you’ll get from using clear aligners as opposed to traditional braces include the following:
- As their name states, clear aligners are completely clear, allowing for a nearly invisible orthodontic treatment.
- Because you can remove your aligners, you don’t need to restrict yourself from any of your favorite foods; you just simply take out your aligners before you eat.
- Also, the removability of the aligners means that brushing and flossing your teeth is just as simple as ever.
- Clear aligners offer much more comfort than the metal wires and brackets of braces.
- The aligners are accurate and durable, meaning that you won’t need to come in as often for maintenance or repairs.
What’s the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Invisalign?
At first glance, you may not be able to tell the difference between clear aligners and Invisalign and you’d actually be right! Clear aligners and Invisalign are virtually similar in just about every way; however, we listened to the concerns of our patients about the expensive cost of Invisalign. As a result, we decided to create our own clear aligners in our nearby lab, giving you the same great benefits of Invisalign, only at a greatly reduced cost. As an added advantage, you’ll even get to start the treatment sooner since the aligners are designed faster due to the close proximity of our lab.
Why Straight Teeth Matter for Your Oral Health
Straight teeth are about more than just aesthetics—they’re essential for maintaining excellent oral health. Misaligned teeth can create hard-to-clean spaces where plaque and bacteria build-up, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. A properly aligned bite also helps distribute pressure evenly, reducing strain on your jaw and preventing issues like tooth wear and TMJ discomfort.Â
Over time, untreated alignment problems can lead to gum recession, enamel damage, or even tooth loss. Clear aligners help you achieve straight teeth, making brushing, flossing, and protecting your oral health easier.
Caring for Your Clear Aligners
Keeping your clear aligners clean is simple and essential for effective treatment. Gently brush them daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, avoiding toothpaste or hot water to prevent damage. Always rinse them with lukewarm water before wearing them and store them in their case when not in use. Brush and floss after meals to keep your teeth and aligners clean.Â
With these easy steps, you’ll protect your aligners and maintain a healthy, bright smile throughout your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Treatment With Clear Aligners Take?
The time required for treatment varies based on your specific orthodontic needs. On average, patients wear clear aligners for 12 to 18 months, but some may achieve results in as little as 6 months. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized timeline during your consultation.
Do Clear Aligners Hurt?
While some patients may experience mild discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners, it’s typically short-lived and much less noticeable than the soreness often associated with braces.
Can I Drink Beverages While Wearing Clear Aligners?
You should avoid drinking anything except water while wearing your aligners. Beverages like coffee, tea, or soda can stain the aligners or increase the risk of decay by trapping sugar and acids against your teeth.
Can I Wear Aligners While Playing Sports?
Clear aligners can be worn during non-contact sports. For contact sports, removing your aligners and wearing a protective mouthguard to prevent injury is recommended.
Can I Switch to Clear Aligners if I’m Already Using Braces?
Yes, it’s possible to transition from braces to clear aligners in many cases, depending on your treatment progress and your orthodontist’s recommendation. Schedule a consultation to see if switching is a suitable option for you.
Why Choose Bryan Johnson Orthodontics For Clear Aligners?
When it comes to your smile, you deserve the best care from a trusted expert. At Bryan Johnson Orthodontics, Dr. Bryan C. Johnson, D.D.S., M.S., has been delivering exceptional orthodontic care to patients in Oregon for over 25 years. His dedication to providing the highest quality treatment, combined with a compassionate approach, ensures every patient feels valued and confident in their care.
Dr. Johnson’s extensive credentials reflect his commitment to excellence. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Loma Linda University in 1996, followed by a Master of Science in Orthodontics in 1998. His passion for transforming smiles is matched by his vision: to help every patient leave with newfound confidence in their beautiful, healthy smile.
Choose Bryan Johnson Orthodontics for a personalized, professional experience with clear aligners, including Invisalign, and discover the difference exceptional care can make.
Contact Your Salem, OR Orthodontist Today!
If you have any further questions about our clear aligners treatment, please feel free to contact us. If you’re interested in clear aligners or braces and you’d like to schedule an appointment with us, we encourage you to fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you and putting you on the path to a straighter and healthier smile!