Clear aligners
Clear aligners are a series of removable plastic trays that move teeth in small steps, for teens and adults whose teeth and bite suit them.
Each set of trays is a little different from the last. You wear them most of the day, take them out to eat and clean them, and change to the next set on the schedule your orthodontist gives you. They only work if they are worn as directed.
At a glance
Removable, and worn most of the day
A new set every 1 to 3 weeks
Check-ins every 6 to 12 weeks
What happens
- 011 visit
Step 1: Is it a fit?
At the consultation we look at your teeth and bite and tell you honestly whether aligners, braces or neither suits you.
- 021 visit
Step 2: Scan and plan
A digital scan and photos. The doctor plans each step, and you see the plan before you agree.
- 031 visit
Step 3: First trays
You try the first set, learn how to put them in and take them out, and hear how long to wear them each day.
- 04Every 6 to 12 weeks
Step 4: Check-ins
We check that teeth are moving as planned and hand over the next sets. Some plans need a few extra sets at the end.
Comfort, other options and what to watch for
Comfort
Expect pressure and some soreness for a few days with each new set. Take the trays out to eat and drink anything but water, and brush before putting them back in. Tell us if an edge rubs.
Other options, and waiting
Braces give the doctor more control over some tooth movements, and they work without your help. Aligners suit people who will wear them. Waiting is also possible if nothing is urgent, and we say what to watch for.
Risks
Trays that are not worn do not move teeth, and lost trays can slow treatment. Small tooth-colored bumps may be attached to some teeth to help the trays grip. Teeth can shift after treatment if retainers are not worn. Gums and teeth need careful cleaning while trays are on.
After-care
Clean your trays every day and keep them in their case when they are out. Do not wrap them in a napkin, and keep them away from heat. Call us if a tray cracks or goes missing.
How it is billed
Aligners are billed as one course of treatment, not by the tray.
You get a written estimate before you decide, and we check your orthodontic benefit first. Extra sets that your plan calls for are part of the estimate we give you.
- A written estimate before treatment
- Your orthodontic benefit checked first
Questions about clear aligners
Can I take them out to eat?
Yes. You take them out to eat and drink anything but water, then brush before you put them back. The time they are in your mouth each day is part of your plan.
Are aligners right for everyone?
No. Some bites and some tooth movements are better handled with braces. At the consultation we tell you which suits you, even if that is not aligners.
What if I lose a tray?
Call us. Often you can go back to the last set while a new one is made, and the doctor decides what is best for your plan.
Aligner treatment here is planned and checked by Dr. Gisela Osorio or Dr. Reem Qasim, orthodontists who completed residencies in orthodontics at accredited programs.
Ask about aligners
Tell us who the visit is for and which office suits you. We will call, text or email you back.