Interested in SureSmile® treatment, but aren’t sure where to start? You’re in the right place! Our Grand Rapids, MI, SureSmile dentist is ready to support you during every step of your orthodontic journey. That way, you can feel informed and confident while wearing your .
One of the main benefits of SureSmile aligners is that they’re nearly invisible and discreet. This gives you the confidence you need during orthodontic treatment so you can always make a great first impression.
Here’s what else you need to know about the .
What Happens During a SureSmile Consultation?
First, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with our local SureSmile dentist. He’ll perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and bite. We’ll also take X-rays to see if there are any issues with jaw alignment, wisdom teeth, or other facets of oral health that could affect your case.
In general, we recommend SureSmile treatment for teens or adults. This is because it takes discipline to wear SureSmile clear aligners 20 to 22 hours per day. Teen and adult patients also tend to be more motivated to complete orthodontic treatment. After all, a beautiful and healthy smile is well worth the effort.
During your initial consultation, our SureSmile provider will take a digital scan of your smile and use specialized computer software like advanced 3D imaging technology to create a precise digital model of your teeth. It’s with this detailed model that our dentist is able to map out the exact movements of the teeth throughout the entirety of your clear aligner treatment.
We will also begin to put together a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique dental structure and desired outcome at this time. This plan will consist of several dozen stages and within each stage, will be a set of SureSmile aligners.
Digital Impressions & Aligners Creation
Fortunately, traditional dental impressions involving messy putty are not needed with SureSmile. Instead, digital impressions are taken using our intraoral scanner. Captured in just minutes, these impressions combine to show an accurate image of the teeth and gums, which is then used to fabricate the custom clear aligner trays. The aligners themselves are made from a smooth, BPA-free plastic, ensuring comfort and safety from start to finish.
Wearing Your First Set of Aligners
We’ll call you to schedule your next appointment once your first set of clear aligners arrive at our Grand Rapids, MI, dental office. This is an exciting time because it means you’re well on your way to achieving the smile of your dreams!
During your appointment, our SureSmile dentist will ensure your aligners fit well and feel comfortable. He’ll also be sure to answer any questions you may have at this time so you can feel prepared for the road ahead.
Once you receive your custom clear aligners, you’ll be responsible for wearing them 20 to 22 hours per day. Otherwise, your teeth won’t move according to schedule and you may inadvertently extend your treatment time.
Routine SureSmile Checkups
You’ll need to schedule regular appointments, typically every 6 to 8 weeks, with our dentist to ensure you stay on track with your treatment plan. During your visits, he’ll check your progress and give you the next set of aligners to wear when you’re ready.
Occasionally, adjustments or refinements to the treatment plan may be necessary. If we notice at one of your check-ups that the teeth aren’t moving as expected, new digital impressions may be taken to create additional aligners. This step ensures that the treatment stays on track and achieves the best possible results.
Depending on the complexity of your case, it could take as little as six months to complete SureSmile treatment. However, it’s important to remember that each patient is different. Our dentist will review the timeline of your plan with you so you know what to expect during the next few months.
Finishing Treatment & Receiving a Retainer
Once you’re done with SureSmile treatment, we’ll create an orthodontic retainer for you to wear as prescribed by our dentist. That way, you’ll be able to maintain your beautiful new smile for years to come.
If you have any issues with the fit of your retainer, please don’t hesitate to call our office. Depending on the condition of your retainer, we may slightly adjust the fit so it’s more comfortable or create a new retainer.
Schedule a SureSmile Consultation
Our SureSmile dentist in Grand Rapids, MI, is accepting new patients and would be more than happy to help you explore your orthodontic options. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Richard Elias III, please call (616) 458-2048. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.
