A straighter smile is now more achievable than ever. You don’t even necessarily need metal brackets or wires either. Our Grand Rapids cosmetic dentist offers Candid clear aligners to teen and adult patients who are dissatisfied with misaligned teeth but want a more discreet alternative to traditional braces.
Here’s what you need to know.
Treatment With Candid Aligners
Much like with other forms of orthodontic treatment, successful results depend on your commitment. You will need to wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours a day and only take them out for eating, drinking beverages other than water, brushing, and flossing teeth.
Approximately every 2 weeks, you’ll switch to the next aligner set in your series unless you’re told otherwise by Dr. Burggraaf. In-person checkup appointments at our Grand Rapids dental office aren’t scheduled when you choose Candid. Instead, we’ll monitor your progress remotely through the CandidMonitoring™ mobile app.
Treatment as a whole will take 4-12 months on average though every patient is different. The final set of aligners that you receive will become your retainers. They will help keep your teeth in place and maintain your new smile.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Though it can take time to see more dramatic results, most patients will notice tooth movement almost immediately after they start to wear Candid clear aligners. If you have a less severe crowding problem or your teeth are only mildly crooked, it can take as little as 4 months to achieve desired alignment.
Dental Issues Treatable By Candid
In general, patients best suited for Candid aligner treatment are those who have teeth that are:
- Gapped
- Crooked
- Crowded
Most mild to severe tooth misalignment cases are effectively treated with Candid clear aligners but it’s important to note that not all patients are proper candidates. If Dr. Burggraaf finds that you have bite issues like an overbite, underbite, crossbite, etc., we may refer you to a trusted orthodontist in the area.
Before getting started with Candid, Dr. Burggraaf will meet with you during an initial consultation to observe your current smile and take digital impressions. If you’re deemed a proper candidate, we’ll send these impressions to a lab for aligner production. You should receive your personal aligners after a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Candid Clear Aligners
What makes Candid different from other clear aligner brands?
While many aligner systems straighten teeth discreetly, Candid stands out for its remote monitoring platform, which allows Dr. Burggraaf to track your progress without frequent in-office visits. This blend of convenience and clinical oversight makes it appealing for busy patients who still want dentist-directed care. Patients also appreciate that their treatment plan is designed specifically around their unique alignment goals.
How comfortable are Candid clear aligners compared to traditional orthodontic options?
Candid aligners are designed using smooth plastic that is free of BPA, helping to reduce discomfort for the cheeks and gums. Most patients experience mild pressure when switching to a new set, which is normal and indicates the aligners are actively guiding tooth movement. Unlike braces, there are no brackets or wires that can poke or cause sore spots.
Can Candid aligners affect speech when you first begin treatment?
Some patients notice a slight lisp during the first few days as their tongue adapts to the aligners. This typically improves quickly, and most people speak normally within a week as they become accustomed to wearing them. Reading aloud at home can help speed up this adjustment.
Are there lifestyle restrictions while using Candid clear aligners?
Yes, when using Candid clear aligners, it is recommended to avoid eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing them. It’s also important to remove the aligners when brushing and flossing your teeth. To maintain good oral hygiene and ensure the effectiveness of your treatment, it is also essential to clean the aligners regularly.
What is the best way to keep Candid aligners clean and clear throughout treatment?
Aligners should be rinsed with lukewarm water, gently brushed with a soft toothbrush, and cleaned using approved solutions to avoid discoloration. Hot water should always be avoided, as it can warp the material and compromise the fit. Consistent cleaning keeps the trays clear and odor-free.
How can I find out whether Candid aligners are suitable for my orthodontic goals?
A consultation with Dr. Burggraaf is the most accurate way to determine candidacy. Digital scans and photos are evaluated to determine whether Candid is suitable for your specific alignment needs or if a more advanced orthodontic option is necessary. She will also discuss projected timelines and expected outcomes.
What is the average cost of Candid clear aligners, and what factors can influence pricing?
Costs vary depending on case complexity, treatment length, and the number of aligners required. Patients receive a personalized estimate after their evaluation, so they know exactly what to expect and can proceed with confidence. Flexible payment options may also be available for added convenience.
Does dental insurance offer coverage for Candid clear aligner treatment?
Some insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that may extend to clear aligners. While coverage varies widely, our office can review your plan and help determine whether any reimbursement or discounts may apply. Patients are encouraged to bring insurance information to their consultation.
What are the long-term benefits of choosing Candid as an orthodontic solution?
Beyond a straighter smile, improved alignment can support better oral health by making brushing and flossing more effective. Many patients also experience improved bite balance and increased confidence from having a well-aligned smile, and maintaining retainer use after treatment protects these long-term results.
Who offers Candid clear aligners near Grand Rapids, Michigan?
Patients seeking aligner treatment can conveniently access Candid through KB Family Dentistry. You can contact us at (616) 219-2659. By choosing us, you’ll benefit from the expertise of our team, including Dr. Burggraaf, who provides professional oversight alongside the convenience of remote monitoring. Being a local provider, we make it easy for you to reach out if you have any questions or concerns during your treatment.
Ask About Candid For Yourself Today
Having metal braces put on and regularly attending orthodontic appointments doesn’t work for everyone’s schedule. That’s precisely why our Candid dentist in Grand Rapids, MI, offers clear aligner treatment to patients. If you want to learn more about how Candid can benefit you specifically, call KB Family Dentistry today at (616) 219-2659 to request an appointment.
