Straighten Your Teeth With Discreet, Removable Aligners
Clear aligners gradually reposition teeth using a customized series of transparent, removable trays. At Pure Dentistry Arts, Dr. Jonathan Rodney provides dentist-supervised clear aligner treatment in Brooklyn, New York, using digital planning to guide each stage of tooth movement.
Find out whether clear aligners are right for your smile. Call 347-223-5850 or contact Pure Dentistry Arts to schedule a clear aligner consultation.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
Clear aligners are thin trays custom-made to fit over your teeth. Each aligner applies controlled pressure to selected teeth, gradually guiding them toward the positions established in your treatment plan.
You will receive a series of aligners to wear in sequence. Each set is typically worn for approximately two weeks before moving to the next set, although Dr. Rodney may adjust this schedule according to your treatment needs and progress.
What Can Clear Aligners Treat?
Clear aligners can address several orthodontic concerns, but they are not appropriate for every type of tooth or jaw movement.
Depending on the complexity of the case, clear aligners may be used to treat:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Spaces or gaps between teeth
- Teeth that have rotated
- Certain overbite concerns
- Certain underbite concerns
- Selected crossbite or open-bite concerns
- Teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment
Some complex bite or alignment problems may be treated more predictably with traditional braces or another orthodontic approach. Dr. Rodney will evaluate your teeth, gums, bone and bite before recommending treatment.
Benefits of Clear Aligner Treatment
Clear aligners provide a discreet alternative to fixed metal brackets and wires. Their removable design can make eating and daily oral hygiene more convenient during treatment.
- Nearly invisible trays during wear
- No metal brackets or wires
- Removal for meals and oral hygiene
- No restrictions on food when the aligners are removed
- Digital planning for customized tooth movement
- Smooth trays designed around the shape of your teeth
- Progress evaluations with your dentist
- Shorter monitoring visits in many cases
Clear aligners work only when worn as directed. Removing the trays too frequently can delay progress or affect the planned result.
Are You a Candidate for Clear Aligners?
Adults and teenagers with healthy teeth and gums may be candidates for clear aligners. Age alone does not determine eligibility, but patients must be able to follow the prescribed wear schedule and care for the trays properly.
Dr. Rodney will consider:
- The type and severity of tooth misalignment
- The relationship between the upper and lower teeth
- Gum and bone health
- Existing cavities or dental restorations
- Previous orthodontic treatment
- Your ability to wear the aligners consistently
- Your treatment goals and expectations
Active cavities, gum disease and other oral health concerns should be addressed before aligner treatment begins. A dental examination can identify problems that may affect treatment planning.
The Clear Aligner Treatment Process
Clear aligner treatment begins with a clinical evaluation and digital planning. The exact number of aligners and length of treatment depend on the movements required.
- Consultation: Dr. Rodney examines your teeth, gums and bite and discusses your alignment goals.
- Digital records: Digital impressions and three-dimensional images are captured for treatment planning.
- Customized plan: The planned tooth movements and aligner sequence are developed based on your case.
- Aligner delivery: You receive your first sets of aligners along with instructions for wear, removal and cleaning.
- Sequential treatment: Each set is typically worn for approximately two weeks before moving to the next.
- Progress evaluations: Dr. Rodney monitors tooth movement and makes adjustments when necessary.
- Retention: After active treatment, retainers help maintain the new tooth positions.
Many patients complete clear aligner treatment within approximately 12 to 18 months. Treatment may be shorter or longer depending on the complexity of the case and how consistently the aligners are worn.
Learn More About Clear Aligner Treatment
Experienced Clear Aligner Care in Brooklyn, New York
Dr. Jonathan Rodney has completed more than 150 clear aligner cases and more than 35 hours of continuing education focused on aligner treatment. He personally evaluates, plans and monitors clear aligner care at Pure Dentistry Arts.
Digital impressions and three-dimensional planning allow Dr. Rodney to evaluate proposed tooth movements before treatment begins. Regular in-person evaluations help confirm that the teeth and supporting tissues are responding as expected.
Clear Aligners Compared With Traditional Braces
Clear aligners and braces both move teeth by applying controlled pressure, but they use different systems. Neither option is automatically better for every patient.
- Clear aligners are removable, discreet and allow patients to brush, floss and eat without brackets or wires in place.
- Traditional braces remain attached to the teeth and may provide more predictable control for certain complex tooth and bite movements.
The most appropriate option depends on the type of correction required, treatment complexity and your ability to follow a removable aligner schedule.
Eating, Drinking and Cleaning Your Aligners
Clear aligners should be removed for meals and for drinks other than water unless Dr. Rodney provides different instructions. Eating with the trays can damage or stain them, while sugary or acidic drinks can become trapped against the teeth.
- Remove the aligners before eating
- Store them in their case when not in use
- Brush and floss before reinserting the trays
- Clean the aligners using the recommended method
- Avoid hot water that could distort the material
- Contact the office if an aligner is lost, cracked or no longer fits
Continue attending routine dental examinations and cleanings during treatment to help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners
How much do clear aligners cost?
The cost depends on the complexity of the case, the number of aligners and the anticipated treatment duration. After your evaluation, our team will provide a personalized estimate. We accept major credit cards and CareCredit™.
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Many patients complete treatment within approximately 12 to 18 months, but the timeline varies. More complex movements may require additional time, while limited treatment may be completed sooner.
How often do I change clear aligners?
Each aligner is typically worn for approximately two weeks before moving to the next set. Follow the schedule provided by Dr. Rodney, because your individual plan may differ.
Are clear aligners painful?
You may feel temporary pressure or tenderness when beginning a new aligner. This generally reflects the pressure being used to move the teeth. Contact the office if you experience severe or persistent discomfort.
Can I eat while wearing clear aligners?
Aligners should generally be removed before eating. This allows you to eat without food restrictions and helps protect the trays from damage and staining.
Are clear aligners better than traditional braces?
Clear aligners offer advantages involving appearance, removability and oral hygiene. Traditional braces may be more appropriate for certain complex tooth and bite movements. The best option depends on your individual treatment needs.
Who provides clear aligner treatment at Pure Dentistry Arts?
Dr. Jonathan Rodney personally evaluates, plans and monitors clear aligner treatment. His experience includes more than 150 aligner cases and more than 35 hours of aligner-focused continuing education.
Will I need retainers after clear aligner treatment?
Yes. Retainers help maintain the new tooth positions after active treatment. Dr. Rodney will provide a personalized retainer schedule based on your needs.
Schedule a Clear Aligner Consultation
Clear aligners can provide a discreet and removable way to address selected tooth and bite concerns. Dr. Jonathan Rodney can evaluate your smile and explain whether aligners are appropriate for the movements you need.
Call 347-223-5850 or request a consultation online to learn more about clear aligners in Brooklyn, New York.
