Clear Aligner Therapy
Straighten Teeth Without Brackets
Close Gaps & Fix Crowding With Clear Aligners in Lafayette
Clear aligner therapy in Lafayette straightens teeth in a way that fits into a busy life. The trays are clear, smooth, and removable. You can wear them to work meetings, family dinners, and weekend hikes without anyone noticing. When it's time to eat, you simply take them out. You don't have to give up popcorn, apples, or your favorite snacks.
Dr. Gregory Keene will evaluate your teeth, bite, and smile goals to determine whether clear aligners meet your needs. With clear aligners, like Invisalign®, you'll have fewer disruptions than with traditional braces. There are no wires to tighten and no brackets to worry about. Checking into our office is quick, too. You stay in control of your routine while your smile improves in the background.
Straighten Teeth on Your Own Terms
Clear aligners do more than shift teeth. They make the whole process of straightening feel manageable. Because the trays are custom-made from your digital scan, they fit snugly and move teeth with gentle, steady pressure. You'll also find it easier to protect your oral health. Brackets and wires won't get in the way of your toothbrush or floss.
Nearly Invisible
Clear trays let you straighten your teeth without drawing attention to your treatment.
Removable Design
You take aligners out to eat and drink, so you can keep enjoying the foods you love.
Easier Cleaning
Brushing and flossing stay simple because there are no brackets trapping food and plaque.
Comfortable Fit
Smooth edges are gentle on your cheeks, lips, and gums. There's no metal hardware to irritate your mouth.
Healthier Bite
Better alignment helps your teeth share chewing forces evenly and reduces uneven wear.
Predictable Plan
Digital planning maps out your tooth movement, so you know what to expect.
Know What to Expect During Clear Aligner Treatment
Your treatment begins with a consultation. Dr. Keene examines your teeth, gums, and bite. If clear aligners are a good match, we take a digital scan of your teeth. There's no gooey impression material, so this step is quick and comfortable. From there, your treatment follows a clear sequence:
- Custom Planning - We use your scan to plan each stage of tooth movement. Your aligners are then made to fit your teeth.
- Daily Wear - You wear your aligners for about 20 to 22 hours per day. You remove them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and clean your teeth.
- New Trays on Schedule - You switch to the next trays as directed. Each new set moves your teeth a little closer to the goal.
- Progress Visits - You'll stop by our office so Dr. Keene can check how your teeth are moving. These short visits keep your results on track.
- Retention - Once your teeth reach their new positions, a retainer holds them in place. Wearing it as directed protects the results you worked for.
If you also have chips or stains, you can pair aligners with whitening or veneers after treatment for a complete smile refresh.
Ready to see if clear aligner therapy in Lafayette fits your goals? Book your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligner Therapy
Q
How long does clear aligner therapy take?
The length of clear aligner therapy depends on how far your teeth need to move. Mild spacing may correct in a few months, while crowding can take a year or more. Wearing your aligners as directed is the biggest factor in staying on schedule. Your dentist will estimate your timeline at your consultation.
Q Do clear aligners hurt?
Clear aligners can cause mild pressure, but most people don't describe it as painful. You'll usually feel it for a day or two after switching to a new set. That pressure is a sign the trays are working. Smooth plastic also means no poking wires or rubbing brackets.
Q Am I a good candidate for clear aligners?
Good candidates for clear aligners include people with crowding, gaps, and mild-to-moderate bite issues. Healthy teeth and gums are important before you start. Some complex bite problems may need a different approach. An exam and digital scan help your dentist decide whether aligners are right for you.
Q How many hours a day do I need to wear clear aligners?
Clear aligners need to be worn about 20 to 22 hours a day to work properly. You take them out only to eat, drink anything besides water, and clean your teeth. Skipping wear time can slow your progress or cause the next trays to fit poorly.
Q Can I eat with clear aligners in?
You shouldn't eat with clear aligners in. Food can crack the trays and trap bacteria against your teeth. Remove your aligners before meals and snacks, then brush or rinse before putting them back. Plain water is the only drink that's safe while you wear them.
Q Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
Clear aligners are as effective as braces for many cases of crowding, spacing, and mild to moderate bite issues. Your results depend on following your wear schedule. Some complex tooth movements may still be better suited to traditional braces. Your dentist can tell you which option fits your needs.
Q Will I need a retainer after clear aligner therapy?
Yes, you'll need a retainer after clear aligner therapy. Teeth naturally try to drift back toward their old positions. A retainer holds them steady while the surrounding bone and gums settle. Most people wear a retainer full-time at first, then switch to nighttime wear.
Q How much does clear aligner therapy cost?
The cost of clear aligner therapy depends on the complexity of your case and the number of aligners you need. Mild cases generally cost less than more involved treatment. Your dentist will review your price, any insurance benefits, and payment options at your consultation, so you can plan ahead.