You don't have to sport bulky metal braces to get a straighter grin. Clear aligners can give you the smile of your dreams without anyone even noticing.
.png)
.webp)
.webp)
Did you know…
Angel Aligners use advanced 3D printing technology to create custom, nearly invisible orthodontic aligners.
Goodbye Goopy Impressions!
Creating your custom clear aligner trays has never been easier thanks to digital scanning. Say goodbye to goopy impression trays and hello to your best smile yet!
Complimentary Consultations
At our practice, we believe in the importance of starting your orthodontic journey on the right foot. That's why we offer a complimentary new patient orthodontic consultation, where you can meet our friendly team, discuss your smile goals, and receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Double The Care
Dr. Shivani and Dr. Jaanki take the time to review each case together, ensuring that you receive the highest level of care and expertise throughout your orthodontic journey.
Custom Smile Design
Experience the difference of custom smile design and treatment planning, where we take into account your unique facial features, dental structure, and personal preferences to create a tailored treatment plan that will help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
Attachments
Our team can add small tooth-colored bumps to the surface of your teeth, which allows us to correct more complex misalignments than ever before.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
They’re Removable
Easily take your aligners out to brush, floss, and eat your favorite foods.
Unparalleled Comfort
Clear aligners are made from a smooth, thin, and comfortable material that's gentle on your mouth.
Convenient Option
You can keep your normal routine, including your diet, without having to make any major changes.
The Clear Aligner Treatment Process
Initial Consultation & Exam
Before diving into treatment, you’ll have some time to discuss your smile goals with our our orthodontists. They’ll also take a detailed look at your bite and smile to see if clear aligners are the right choice for you. Feel free to ask any questions you have about your smile or other treatment options at this time.
Aligner Pick Up
After you’ve been approved to move forward with clear aligners, our orthodontists will take scans of your teeth to make sure your trays are a perfect fit. Once your aligners are ready to wear, you'll stop by our office, to bond on your attachments and begin treatment. As a part of your custom treatment plan, our orthodontists will add tooth-colored attachments to your teeth to aid in efficient movement of your teeth.
Check-ins
While every treatment timeline is unique, you’ll most likely stop by our office every eight to twelve weeks to pick up your next set of aligners. These check-ins are important — they ensure your treatment is on track and that your trays are fitting properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are clear aligners?
%402x%20(2).svg){kind=icon}
Clear aligners are a modern orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth discreetly and effectively. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners are made from a transparent, plastic material that fits snugly over your teeth. This makes them virtually invisible, allowing you to improve your smile without the noticeable appearance of metal brackets and wires.
The process begins with a comprehensive consultation at Patel Family Orthodontics, where Dr. Shivani Patel and Dr. Jaanki Patel will evaluate your dental needs and create a personalized treatment plan. Using advanced 3D imaging technology, a series of custom-made aligners are crafted to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for about 1-2 weeks before progressing to the next set in the series, ensuring a comfortable and efficient treatment.
How long will I have to wear clear aligners?
The duration of your clear aligner treatment depends on the complexity of your case and your specific orthodontic goals. On average, most patients wear clear aligners for 12 to 18 months to achieve optimal results. However, some cases may require a shorter or longer treatment period.
During your initial consultation at Patel Family Orthodontics, the doctors will provide a detailed timeline based on your unique needs. It is crucial to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Adhering to this schedule ensures that your treatment progresses as planned and helps you achieve your desired smile transformation in the estimated timeframe.
What are the benefits of clear aligners?
Clear aligners offer a variety of advantages over traditional braces, making them an appealing choice for many patients in Katy, TX. One of the most significant benefits is their nearly invisible appearance, allowing you to straighten your teeth without drawing attention to your orthodontic treatment. This is particularly appealing for adults and teens who wish to maintain a natural look throughout the process.
Comfort is another key benefit of clear aligners. Made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, they eliminate the discomfort associated with metal brackets and wires that can irritate the mouth. Additionally, clear aligners are removable, offering flexibility and convenience. You can enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions and maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing with ease.
Clear aligners also promote better oral health. By gradually aligning your teeth, they help reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay, which are often exacerbated by crowded or misaligned teeth. The precision of the treatment plan, guided by advanced technology, ensures that each tooth moves in a controlled manner, minimizing the risk of complications.
Finally, clear aligners often require fewer visits to the orthodontist compared to traditional braces, saving you time and making it easier to fit appointments into your busy schedule. When you get clear aligners from Patel Family Orthodontics conveniently located in Katy, TX, you can enjoy these benefits and more as you work towards achieving the smile you've always wanted.
Are clear aligners suitable for everyone?
Clear aligners are a versatile solution for a wide range of orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. However, they may not be suitable for every patient. Complex cases that require significant tooth movement or jaw realignment might benefit more from traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments.
During your consultation at Patel Family Orthodontics, Dr. Shivani Patel and Dr. Jaanki Patel will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if clear aligners are the best option for your specific needs. They will consider factors such as your dental history, the severity of your orthodontic issues, and your personal preferences to recommend the most effective treatment plan. Rest assured, our team is committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with the most appropriate and effective orthodontic solutions available.
Am I a good candidate for clear aligners?
Clear aligners may be the right solution for your smile, as long as you are free from severe oral health and orthodontic issues. If your orthodontist notices extensive orthodontic problems, metal or ceramic braces may be recommended. Want to find out which treatment option will best suit your needs? Reach out to our team to schedule a consultation today.
Do clear aligners hurt?
Clear aligners are known to be more comfortable than traditional braces, but you may experience some tenderness and soreness as your teeth begin to shift. The gentle pressure applied by the aligners prompts your tooth roots to shift, which then causes some minor inflammation and discomfort.
How do I wear my aligners?
Patients are asked to wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, but this timeline may vary based on your specific treatment needs. You’ll most likely only need to remove them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Consistently wearing your aligners ensures you are getting the most out of your treatment and that your teeth are shifting as quickly as possible.
How do I care for my aligners?
Caring for aligners is simple and straightforward. Gently clean your trays with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water to remove any food particles or plaque. When you remove your aligners to eat, brush, or floss, store them in their case to keep them free from bacteria and damage.
What if I crack my aligners?
If you lose your aligners or notice any cracks, damage, or wear and tear, don’t hesitate to reach out right away. Avoiding help could prolong your treatment and reverse the progress you have made. We’ll make sure you get a fresh new set of trays as soon as possible so you can carry on with your treatment plan.
What are clear aligner attachments?
Clear aligner attachments, also known as buttons, are small, tooth-colored composite resin dots placed onto your teeth. When you slip your aligners over your teeth, they snap over the button. This provides an anchor for your aligners to keep them firmly in place. It also allows our orthodontists to adjust the position of your teeth more precisely and more effectively throughout your treatment.
Can you see clear aligners when you’re wearing them?
Clear aligners are made out of clear, thin plastic, making them less noticeable when worn. Each tray is custom-made to fit your gum line for a seamless finish.
How are clear aligners trays made?
The first step involves taking scans of your teeth to create a digital model of your mouth. This model is then sent to a lab, where the aligners are crafted using a computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) process. These tools allow for a hyper-precise set of aligners to be made just for you. When the aligners are fully crafted, they are shipped to our orthodontists to be fitted and delivered to you.
