How do clear aligners work?

Clear aligners are one of the most popular treatment options for adults looking to straighten crooked teeth without traditional braces. This orthodontic method uses a series of custom-made, transparent trays designed with advanced 3D imaging technology. Each set of aligners is worn for a specific period and then replaced with the next in the series, gently and gradually shifting your teeth into the proper position. Because they are removable, clear aligners allow you to maintain your normal eating, brushing, and flossing routines, all while working discreetly toward a straighter, healthier smile.

DID YOU KNOW…

Unlike braces that require wire adjustments, aligner check-ins are usually quicker and less frequent.

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HOW DOES THE CLEAR ALIGNER PROCESS WORK?

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CONSULTATION

We begin with a one-on-one consultation where we examine your smile, talk through your goals, and determine if clear aligner therapy is the right treatment for you. We take digital scans of your mouth and can even show you a digital preview of your new smile.

ALIGNER PICK-UP

When your first set of aligners is ready, we’ll invite you back to our office to try them on. We’ll walk you through how to wear and care for your aligners so you get the best results. Most patients wear their aligners 20–22 hours a day, switching to a new set every two weeks.

CHECK-INS

We schedule check-ins about every six weeks to make sure everything is moving along as planned. During these visits, we’ll monitor your progress and provide your next set of aligners. As long as you wear them as directed, your teeth will continue shifting into the right position.

MAINTAINING YOUR SMILE

When treatment is complete, we’ll provide a set of retainers to help you maintain your beautiful results. These retainers look much like your aligners but are built for long-term use. Our team will also help you decide on a long term plan for keeping your teeth straight and your smile looking great for years to come.

WHAT CAN CLEAR ALIGNERS TREAT?

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OVERBITE

An overbite happens when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth. While this is common, a deep overbite can lead to jaw pain and excessive wear on your teeth. With clear aligner therapy, we can gently guide your teeth into a healthier, more natural position.

UNDERBITE

An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth extend past the upper front teeth. This can affect chewing, speaking, and the overall balance of your bite. With clear aligners, we can gradually shift your teeth to create better alignment and restore proper function to your smile.

CROSSBITE

A crossbite is when some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. This misalignment can cause uneven wear and even gum problems. Using clear aligners, we can correct the bite pattern and protect both your teeth and gums from long-term damage.

GAPPED TEETH

Spaces or gaps between teeth can affect more than appearance; they can also leave your gums exposed and more prone to irritation. With clear aligners, we can close these spaces, creating a more uniform smile while also improving gum health.

OPEN BITE

An open bite happens when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when your mouth is closed. This can make it difficult to bite into foods or speak clearly. Clear aligner therapy can help bring your teeth together, improving function and appearance.

CROWDED TEETH

Crowded teeth occur when there isn’t enough space in the jaw, causing teeth to overlap or twist. This makes cleaning harder and raises the risk of cavities or gum disease. With clear aligners, we can create more space and guide your teeth into proper alignment for a healthier smile.

DID YOU KNOW…

Clear aligners have transformed millions of smiles!

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HOW ARE CLEAR ALIGNERS MADE?

Clear aligners are designed from digital impressions of your teeth and are built using a hard yet flexible plastic. The progression of aligners helps to shift your teeth according to the treatment plan created by your dentist.

HOW DO I TAKE CARE OF MY ALIGNERS?

The simplest way to keep your aligners clean is to brush them with a toothbrush each time you brush your teeth. If you need to clean them when you’re out and about and don’t have access to your toothbrush, you can also simply rinse the aligners in lukewarm water. Never use hot water or abrasive cleaners; these may warp the plastic of the aligner! You can also purchase a clear aligner cleaning system for a more thorough cleaning.

CAN YOU SEE THE CLEAR ALIGNERS WHEN YOU’RE WEARING THEM?

Most people will not be able to see your aligners when you are wearing them. This is because the clear plastic makes them practically invisible, and there are no bulky metal brackets or wires that will draw attention to your teeth. Plus, clear aligners are custom-made to fit snugly to your teeth and are trimmed so they won’t show over your gum line. The result is a seamless smile without the hassle of unsightly brackets or wires!

HOW MUCH DO CLEAR ALIGNERS COST?

Usually, clear aligner treatment is fairly similar to the cost of braces, but pricing will fluctuate depending on your unique needs. To get an accurate cost estimate, schedule a consultation with your doctor today! Keep in mind that your insurance may also cover some orthodontic treatment, so be sure to call your insurance provider to understand your benefits.

DID YOU KNOW…

Most clear aligner treatments are completed in just 1 year.

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