Why Aren’t My Teeth Moving According to Schedule with ClearCorrect Aligners?

With ClearCorrect aligners, you have a “clear” path to a straighter, more beautiful smile. When your orthodontic treatment begins, your dentist will provide you with an estimate of how long it should take for you to get your desired results, and in most cases this timeline is very accurate. Unfortunately, however, some treatments may take longer than anticipated. If your teeth aren’t moving according to schedule, here are a few reasons they may not be progressing as planned.

You’re Not Wearing Your Aligners Enough

To stay on target, you need to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day. They should be removed for meals, to drink anything but water, and so that you can clean them and your teeth and gums. If you are keeping them off for more than two hours each day, this could seriously affect your progress. To get back on track, be sure to only keep them off for the allotted time, otherwise your treatment could take longer than estimated.

You’re Not Doing Your Chewing Exercises

Your trays move your teeth by pushing them. When you swallow your saliva or clench your jaws, you effectively nudge them, helping assist the progress of your aligners. But this really only applies to the back molars; the front teeth often need a little extra help to budge. That’s why your dentist may recommend chewing exercises. These can be done with a special mint, or you can use a small foam tube called a “chewie.” If you have been prescribed this type of activity, it is very important that you do it, as it will encourage all your teeth to move according to schedule.

Your Mouth May Vary Slightly from Estimates

When your treatment begins and you are given an estimated timeline for completion, there is always a chance that things will take a little longer than planned. That’s because even though the ClearCorrect software is quite accurate, it still cannot predict individual differences. While one patient may complete their treatment right on track, another may take weeks or even months longer due to their own unique physiology. If yours is taking a bit longer than predicted, it could simply be that your body is moving at its own pace.

You Need IPR

IPR, or interproximal reduction, is a procedure where your dentist will reshape your teeth to prevent them from crowding or colliding into each other. IPR is completely safe and painless and will help keep your teeth in alignment so your treatment not only stays on track, but your teeth will also fit together much more evenly once it’s complete.

Remember, your ClearCorrect treatment timeline is just an estimate. There are many variables that could cause it to take longer than anticipated. If that happens, don’t panic. With the help of your dentist, you can get back on track and soon you’ll be ready to showcase your beautiful new smile!

About Our Practice

At Anderson Dental Center, we have a variety of dental specialists under one convenient roof. Whether you’re looking for general dentistry, a cosmetic procedure, or an orthodontic treatment, our team is proud to provide each patient with the skilled, compassionate oral health care you need.

To schedule an appointment for ClearCorrect aligners, please visit our website or call us today at 201-546-7435.