Clear Aligners

Clear aligners work well for most adults and teens with mild to moderate alignment issues, including: crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your specific situation and let you know if clear aligners are right for you, or if another treatment option might be more effective.

They’re not technically invisible, but they are very discreet. The clear plastic is designed to fit snugly against your teeth and is difficult for others to notice, especially in normal conversation. Most patients report that friends and coworkers don’t even realize they’re wearing aligners until they mention it.

You’ll feel some pressure and mild discomfort when you switch to a new set of aligners, which is a sign your teeth are moving. This typically lasts 2 to 3 days and is much less than the discomfort associated with traditional braces adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relief can help if needed.

Most clear aligner treatments take between 6 and 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case. Mild crowding or spacing issues may be resolved in as little as 6 months, while more complex cases can take 12 to 18 months. Consistent wear (20-22 hours per day) is the biggest factor in staying on schedule.

You should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and damage to the trays. After eating, brush your teeth (or at least rinse) before putting the aligners back in. The removable design is actually one of the biggest advantages of clear aligners over traditional braces.

Treatment typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the complexity and duration. Many dental insurance plans that cover orthodontics will contribute toward clear aligner treatment, just as they would for traditional braces. We also offer financing options to help make monthly payments manageable.

After your teeth have reached their final positions, you’ll wear retainers to maintain the results. Typically, this means wearing a retainer at night. Without retention, teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions over time. We’ll provide clear retainers and give you specific instructions for your situation.

Both achieve excellent results. Clear aligners offer greater comfort, aesthetics, and convenience (removable for eating and brushing). Traditional braces may be more effective for severe or complex orthodontic issues. For most mild to moderate cases, clear aligners deliver comparable results with a more comfortable experience. We’ll recommend the best option for your specific needs.