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Clear aligner therapy is a popular alternative to conventional orthodontic treatment for teens and adults. True to their name, the aligner products that “do” the straightening are clear or made from transparent plastic. So, they are nearly invisible when you smile. However, the benefits do not stop there. Gateway Oral Health Center in St. George, Utah, has highlighted five of those benefits below.
As biological dentists, Drs. Bryce Eagar, Matthew Geddes, and Andy Mohlman have carefully selected all the products, materials, and technologies used and placed here for their safety and clinical effectiveness. The clear aligners available today are generally made from advanced plastics. We only use those products that are non-toxic and made from materials that do not present adverse health risks. All our appliances, including aligners, are appropriate for individuals concerned about sensitivities or reactions to other dental materials. These concerns largely stem from other dentists’ and orthodontists’ use of conventional metals for dental and orthodontic procedures. Patients have peace of mind, as these metals are unavailable at our holistic office.
Clear aligners are generally smooth and flexible. Advanced software and other technologies are also used to design each aligner precisely. Since they are designed with such precision, aligners fit your mouth as they shouldโsnugly yet comfortably. Our patients appreciate that straightening their teeth is not uncomfortable. It is also relatively effortless to get used to wearing these devices or aligner “trays.”ย
Traditional braces are fixed to the teeth. Only dentists or orthodontists can remove or adjust conventional fixed braces. With our appealing alternative to braces, you can remove the aligners yourself without the assistance of one of our dentists or team members. Since aligners are removable, you can remove them from your mouth before meals and before cleaning your teeth. This characteristic supports sustained, comfortable, and healthy eating and effective and easy brushing and flossing. Aligners are not only convenient and comfortable, but they are also a proven way to straighten your teeth. These systems are based on the same basic principles as conventional orthodontic treatment. Both alternatives consistently put gentle pressure on the teeth. This continual force gradually moves the teeth into their evenly aligned positions. Just be sure to wear the aligners as directed by your dentist, for up to 22 hours daily.ย
Compared to traditional braces, aligners are generally easier to clean and maintain than fixed brackets, wires, and elastics. ย We also advise on cleaning products and techniques to keep your aligners fresh and stain-free. Cleaning the aligners is similar to cleaning other dental appliances, such as mouthguards and nightguards. Consistent cleaning minimizes the risk of harmful bacteria building up on the aligner and helps retain its clear appearance. Aside from cleaning and only taking the aligners out for meals and brushing/flossing, care is largely limited to wearing them in the correct sequence. Each aligner tray is associated with a different step in the treatment process. So, it is important to wear them in the right order.ย
Aligner therapy is considered to be a high-tech process. There are myriad aligners products on the market today. They generally use sophisticated software. With such state-of-the-art capabilities, we can show you how your teeth will look after treatment is completed and before you decide to move forward with clear aligner therapy. The “virtual model” of your mouth is also used to fabricate your aligners precisely, minimizing the risk of “human error” and ensuring the proper fit that supports effective and comfortable treatment.ย
Schedule a consultation today with Gateway Oral Health Center to see what your new, healthy smile can look like. Our team in St. George, UT, can be reached at (435) 656-0255.
Dr. Bryce Eagar completed his undergraduate studies at the College of Southern Nevada and the University of Nevada in Las Vegas and attended dental school at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. He joined the Minnesota National Guard while in dental school and later transferred to the New Mexico National Guard. He retired from the US Army Reserves as a Major after serving for 13.5 years.
Dr. Eagarโs journey to becoming a biological dentist started with his and his familyโs health. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Oral Systemic Health and a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology and the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine.
Dr. Matthew D. Geddes earned his BS in Zoology and Chemistry from Weber State University and his DDS from Dalhousie University dental school (in 2006). He has worked as an associate and owner of a general dentistry practice. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a Fellow and Diplomate of the American Orthodontic Society. Dr. Geddes began learning about sleep and TMJ dentistry in 2018, which prompted him to enter the area of biological dentistry.
Dr. Andy Mohlman brings 20 years of dedicated dental experience to Gateway Oral Health Center in St. George, Utah. A graduate of a respected dental program, he excels in various dental surgeries, such as extractions, grafting, and implant placement. His skills also include laser surgeries and periodontal regeneration, reflecting his commitment to cutting-edge dental care. Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Mohlman is a devoted husband and father of six, who enjoys hiking and mountain biking in Southern Utah. His blend of expertise and personal integrity makes him a trusted figure in the dental community.
