Orthodontics

Discreet orthodontics for a beautiful result

Orthodontic treatment with aligners uses clear, removable plastic trays to adjust the position of your teeth and improve your bite. This method is an alternative to traditional fixed braces and is popular because of its discreet and comfortable nature.

Overall, aligner-based orthodontics offers a discreet and flexible way to achieve a straighter smile and better oral health.

Step-by-Step: How the Process Works at Vaasa Smiles

Step 1:

Book a free orthodontic consultation (maximum 15 minutes). A consultation for orthodontic treatment with aligners is the first step in the treatment process and is meant to assess if you are a suitable candidate for treatment with aligners, as well as to start planning your treatment. During the consultation, you'll also receive information about what to expect during and after the treatment. We will review your goals and wishes for the orthodontic treatment, such as if there are specific teeth that need straightening or particular cosmetic improvements you desire. You will have the opportunity to ask questions about the treatment, expected results, possible side effects, and other relevant details.
 
A consultation is an important step to ensure that aligner orthodontics is the right solution and to give you a clear picture of the overall process and what is required to achieve a successful outcome.

Step 2:

If your bite is assessed as treatable effectively and safely with aligners, then a time will be scheduled for a thorough dental examination. During this examination, we will thoroughly check your teeth, jaw, and bite, make dental and bite diagnoses, and take a panoramic X-ray along with two small X-rays to get a detailed image of your teeth, jaws, and sinuses. We will assess your general dental health, and any issues that could affect the treatment, such as cavities or gum disease, will be identified. We will also discuss treatment options with you.

If there is a need for fillings or tooth extractions, appointments will be made to address those before starting your orthodontic treatment.

Step 3:

The next step is to perform a digital scan of your teeth to create a 3D model of your bite, which is used to plan the tooth movement. Photos of your teeth, smile, and profile will also be taken. These are sent to the dental laboratory for processing. 

The planning of the removable aligner orthodontic treatment is carried out by the dental laboratory’s orthodontist together with Dentist Jenni Forss. The fee for this planning is included in the cost of the orthodontic treatment. Should you, for any reason, decide not to proceed with the orthodontic treatment, you will not be charged for the planning. 

Step 4:

If aligner-based orthodontic treatment is deemed a suitable option, a treatment plan will be created outlining how your teeth will be moved step by step. Once the planning is complete, we will contact you and provide information regarding possible outcomes, the expected duration, and costs of the treatment. You will also learn how long the treatment is expected to take and how many aligners may be needed. We will review practical details and preparations with you. You will receive instructions on how to use the aligners, how many hours per day they should be worn, and how often they need to be changed.

Cost information and payment options will be presented. The treatment planning will be reviewed and approved with the patient before starting the actual treatment.

Step 5:

Aligner manufacturing: A series of individually customized aligners will be made for you. Each aligner is designed to move your teeth a small step at a time.

Step 6:

Treatment start and progressive tooth movement: The start of treatment usually involves placing a few small tooth-colored attachments on the outside of your teeth to make the movement as effective and safe as possible. If there is crowding, we may smooth out some spaces between your teeth as planned by your orthodontist to allow your teeth to be moved to their new positions. You will practice inserting and removing the aligners at the clinic. Each aligner is worn for about 1–2 weeks before switching to the next in the series. Each aligner is slightly different and gradually moves your teeth toward the desired position.

Step 7:

Wearing time: For best results, you should wear your aligners at least 20–22 hours a day and only remove them to eat, drink anything other than water, or brush your teeth.

Step 8:

You will come in for regular check-ups throughout your treatment.

Step 9:

Once your orthodontic treatment is finished, you will receive temporary retention aligners to use for up to one month. Afterward, new impressions are taken, and we will order retainers for you, which are bonded behind your front teeth with tooth-colored composite material. Additionally, you will often receive a night-time retainer for your upper teeth to keep your bite in place and protect your teeth.

Benefits of Clear Aligner Orthodontics

• Discreet: Since the aligners are transparent and barely visible in the mouth, they are less noticeable than traditional braces.
• Removable: The aligners can be taken out during meals and when brushing your teeth, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Comfortable: Since there are no sharp metal wires that can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth, many patients find aligners more comfortable than fixed braces.
• Effective treatment: Can be used to correct a variety of orthodontic issues, such as crooked teeth, gaps, crowding, and certain bite problems.

Limitations to Consider When Using Aligners for Orthodontic Treatment

• Discipline required: Since aligners are removable, it’s important for the patient to follow instructions and wear them long enough each day. Otherwise, treatment may take longer.
• Complex cases: In some more complicated orthodontic cases, traditional fixed braces may be more effective than aligners.