Clear Aligners
Clear aligners provide a sleek, subtle solution for improving your smile. Instead of metal braces, they rely on clear, removable trays that gradually guide your teeth into proper alignment.
Clear Aligners in Chester, VA
Clear aligners offer a discreet, comfortable way to straighten your teeth using a series of custom-made, removable trays. Designed from precise digital scans and bite records, these aligners gently guide your teeth into better alignment—without brackets or wires.
Your journey starts with a consultation at Chester Road Family Dental to determine whether clear aligners are right for you. We treat mild to moderate orthodontic cases and refer more complex concerns to a specialist when needed. Once approved, you’ll change aligners about every two weeks, with most treatments completed in around two years. Treatment typically begins with half of the estimated out-of-pocket cost, with the remaining balance divided into 12 monthly payments.
Post-Treatment Care
First 3–6 Months After Treatment
Once orthodontic treatment is complete, wearing your retainer consistently is essential to protect your new smile. For the first three months, retainers should be worn full-time, day and night, and removed only for eating and brushing. After this phase, you’ll transition to nighttime wear. Staying consistent is key—missed wear can allow teeth to shift and reduce the long-term effectiveness of your treatment.
Most retainers last up to two years, though some wear out sooner, especially for patients who grind or clench their teeth—a habit affecting over 85% of people. The first retainer is often the most vulnerable since it’s worn around the clock and may stretch over time. Improper care, inconsistent use, or normal wear can also affect fit. Even with good habits, small changes can occur, so keeping an eye on how your retainer fits is important.
Every 6 Months
Every six months, you’ll test a duplicate set of retainers. If the new set feels tighter, it’s a sign your current retainer has stretched and should be replaced right away to prevent tooth movement. Having backup retainers helps catch changes early—before shifting becomes noticeable.
Relying on a single retainer can make it harder to spot gradual movement. Once teeth visibly shift, it’s often too late to correct them without additional treatment. While a newly made retainer can help stop further movement, it cannot reposition teeth that have already shifted.
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How does clear aligner treatment work?
Clear aligner treatment uses a series of custom-made, removable trays designed from digital scans of your teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks and gently shifts your teeth into better alignment over time. As you progress through the series, your teeth gradually move into their planned positions without brackets or wires.
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What's the difference between clear aligners and metal braces?
Clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible trays that straighten teeth gradually and allow you to eat, brush, and floss normally. Metal braces use fixed brackets and wires to move teeth and cannot be removed until treatment is complete. Braces are often better for complex cases, while clear aligners are ideal for mild to moderate alignment issues and offer greater comfort and discretion.
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Who can use clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a good option for teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns, such as spacing, crowding, or minor bite issues. Candidates should have healthy teeth and gums and be able to wear the aligners for 20–22 hours a day as directed. A dental evaluation is needed to determine if clear aligners are the right choice.
More questions about clear aligners?
If you have additional questions about clear aligner treatment, reach out to our office and our team will be glad to help.
