The type of orthodontia Dr. Merkel performs in his office is called SureSmile®

The following paragraphs are intended to explain what Clear Aligner is and why it is Dr. Merkel’s preferred treatment protocol.

What Are SureSmile® Clear Aligners?

SureSmile® Clear Aligners make it possible to straighten teeth without braces. Made of PVC and BPA free clear plastic, these clear orthodontic aligners are essentially unnoticeable, yet highly effective in creating the smile you want.

Who Can Benefit from SureSmile® Clear Aligners?

Removable clear aligners correct tooth-crowding, gaps between teeth, and misaligned teeth. They are recommended for individuals who have all their permanent teeth and who can meet proper care and use requirements. Dr. Merkel will work with you to perform an initial analysis of your teeth to determine the degree of tooth movement required and determine if the clear aligner solution or traditional orthodontic approach is better suited. 

SureSmile® Clear Aligners give you a choice of bracket-free orthodontics and offer incredible results in a shorter treatment period than traditional methods. They also cost less than many other orthodontic treatments. Dr. Merkel can help you decide if Clear Aligners are the right treatment option for you. 

How Do SureSmile® Clear Aligners Work?

After Dr. Merkel developes a treatment plan, your aligner is custom made to move your teeth to their ideal position. Over time, often as little as 3 to 6 months, your teeth progressively migrate into their proper location.

SureSmile® Aligners use the same orthodontic principles as other types of braces: space, force, and time. SureSmile® Aligners differ from "Invisible" ceramic braces as well as other invisible aligners such as Invisalign. SureSmile® Aligners are removable, unlike ceramic brackets, and are generally less expensive than their Invisalign aternative. 

What Should I Expect When Using SureSmile® Clear Aligners?

Within a week of starting most SureSmile® Clear Aligners users forget the aligners are even there. During treatment, you must wear the aligner at all times except when eating, drinking hot liquids, and brushing and flossing your teeth. 

During the course of your treatrment, you will use a progerssion of aligners that make slight adjustments that cause your teeth to move into position. New aligners may be introduced every few weeks, depending upon your treatment plan. Once your SureSmile® Clear Aligners treatment plan ends, you may need to wear a retainer to maintain your proper tooth alignment.

How Do I Care For My SureSMile® Clear Aligners? 

Achieving the best results requires wearing your aligners at all times, except while eating, drinking hot liquids, and during oral hygiene. Never chew gum while using the aligner. Whenever the aligner is not in your mouth, place it in its protective case and store it away from any heat sources. After eating or drinking, brush and floss your teeth, and then reinsert the aligners. Food trapped in the aligner may cause tooth decay, so good oral hygiene is very important. Do not use toothpaste to clean the device as it may cause scratching and dulling of the plastic. Cleaning the aligner is easy using Retainer Brite cleaning tablets.