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Aug
7 Ways to Get the Most from Your ClearCorrect Treatment
ClearCorrect in Byron Center, Michigan, is an exciting way to straighten your teeth and improve your bite. However, its success depends on how well you follow the treatment plan. At VanderLaan Family Dentistry, we want to get the most from your orthodontic treatment. Here are a few practical tips to help you achieve the best possible results hassle-free.
1. Wear your aligners as directed
Consistency is key if you want to achieve the desired results with ClearCorrect. Your dentist will recommend that you wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. This consistency ensures your teeth move as planned. Failing to wear your aligners consistently can delay treatment, even for seemingly minor issues.
2. Change your aligners as scheduled
Your dentist will recommend graduating to a new set of aligners every 7-10 days. Don’t switch your aligners too early or too late. Doing so can interfere with the planned tooth movements, delaying your treatment.
3. Don’t eat or drink with your aligners on
One of the most compelling benefits of ClearCorrect is the freedom to eat your favorite foods. However, that freedom comes with one important rule: always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water.
Failing to do so can:
- Crack or warp the trays
- Stain the aligners
- Trap food particles against your teeth
- Increase the risk of cavities
Daily, you have at least 3-4 hours to eat or drink. Plan your meals accordingly to ensure they don’t disrupt your treatment.
Real Patients, Real Results
Before and After Images of Patients
Veneers and Clear Braces (Clear Aligner Therapy)
This patient presented to our office for routine care several years ago. After 6-7 years of routine care, the patient admitted that he was not happy with his teeth and was concerned about the cracking in his front tooth. We generated a treatment plan for him that included clear aligner therapy (ClearCorrect), followed by 6 porcelain veneers. ClearCorrect was first used to correct the slight crowding of his lower teeth, create a more ideal relationship between his upper and lower front teeth, and address the underlying causes of his wear and cracking. The veneers were used to restore him to his intended appearance. The result was excellent, and the patient is thrilled to have his smile restored!
4. Keep your aligners in their protective case
Many users have lost their aligners after wrapping them in a napkin at a restaurant or leaving them on a countertop. Whenever they are not in your mouth, store your aligners in their protective case. This simple habit helps prevent accidental loss or damage, which can delay your treatment and create unnecessary expenses.
5. Keep your aligners clean
Good maintenance is important to keep your aligners clean and clear. To keep your aligners fresh and healthy:
- Rinse them with lukewarm water whenever you remove them
- Clean them gently with a soft brush and non-abrasive detergent
- Avoid using hot water, which can warp the plastic
- Don’t use toothpaste as it’s too abrasive for the plastic material
Keeping your aligners clean makes them look better and promotes better oral hygiene throughout treatment.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (616) 288-2554 | Existing Patients: (616) 455-7310
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6. Stay consistent with check-in appointments
Your dentist will schedule routine check-ups every 6-8 weeks. These appointments allow your dentist to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and make adjustments if necessary. Skipping appointments can lead to minor issues going unnoticed, potentially affecting your treatment timeline and results.
7. Wear a retainer after treatment
Once you complete your treatment, it’s important to wear a retainer to maintain your results. Without one, your teeth may shift back, undoing your hard-earned results. Our dentist will recommend the right retainer and provide instructions on how to wear it to achieve the best results. Patients who wear their retainers consistently enjoy straighter smiles for many years.
Where can I get clear aligner therapy near me in Byron Center, MI?
Choosing ClearCorrect means getting a straighter, healthier smile without putting your life on hold. However, the best results depend on consistent care. Ready to straighten your teeth with ClearCorrect? Dial (616) 288-2554 and schedule an appointment with VanderLaan Family Dentistry, serving Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Wyoming, Wayland, Hudsonville, and the greater western Michigan area.
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Dr. Matthew VanderLaan
Dr. Matthew VanderLaan is a highly skilled dentist with over 15 years of experience dedicated to personalized, patient-centered care. An alumnus of East Kentwood High School and the University of Michigan, he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Having spent three years as a public health dentist, he established VanderLaan Family Dentistry in 2012.
Dr. VanderLaan has pursued advanced training at the Pankey Institute, Kois Center, Dawson Academy, American Academy of Facial Esthetics, The Schuster Center, and is a Fellow of Implant Pathways. He is also trained in TMJ and pain management. As a member of the American and Michigan Dental Associations and West Michigan District Dental Society, he is committed to excellence and trustworthiness in dentistry.
Within his family practice, Dr. VanderLaan has been a civilian provider for disabled veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Since 2014, He has partnered with the local VA and has had the pleasure of caring for individuals who have sacrificed their personal well-being for our Nation’s safety. He considers it one of his greatest honors of being a dentist.
Outside of his dental practice, Dr. VanderLaan is an avid family man. He enjoys his time with his wife of 17 years, Dana, as well as his four children (Brooke, 16, Jenna 15, AJ 11, and Nora 11). As a family they enjoy the kid’s sports, music, involvement in their Church and Christian Faith community, and Michigan Football. They also enjoy traveling and exploring the world together.
Dana VanderLaan
Dana VanderLaan founded VanderLaan Family Dentistry with her husband, Dr. VanderLaan, in April of 2012. She is versed in all administrative tasks and acts as the office manager. Before her over 12 years of experience in the dental field, Dana graduated with a BSW from Saginaw Valley State University and an MSW from the University of Michigan, School of Social Work. Dana is a self starter, and was trained in dentistry completely on the job, and continues to learn new things about running an efficient, patient-centered dental office.
Along with her work at VFD, she is mom to her children (Brooke 16, Jenna 15, AJ 11 and Nora 11), and works tirelessly to make sure all of their needs are met, and devotes her time to being their #1 supporter. She enjoys her family time, rooting on her kid’s at their various athletic events, school and church activities, traveling, walking and working out, gardening, and spending time at home.