Clear Aligner FAQs

Clear Aligners are a series of clear, custom-fitted dental appliances that straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets.

Using advanced 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we will create a treatment plan based on your smile.

A series of custom clear aligners will then be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.

Invisalign and SureSmile use clear plastic aligners designed to move your teeth in tiny increments as your treatment progresses. You will wear each aligner for about two weeks before it is replaced by the next one in the series.

This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. The duration of your treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your specific needs.

Your dentist will determine the duration of your treatment based on your specific needs.

Factors that may determine the duration of your treatment include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the problem.

Since Invisalign and SureSmile aligners require no adjustments or tightening – you just switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks – your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every four to six weeks.

During these appointments, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as required.

The features of Invisalign and SureSmile clear aligners include:

• A discreet, low-profile appearance
• Smooth construction for a more comfortable fit
• Do not require adjustment appointments
• Removable for eating, brushing and flossing

The cost will depend on the severity of your case and the duration of your treatment. For instance, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need and the more your treatment will cost.

In many cases, the cost of Invisalign or SureSmile is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces).

You may find that Invisalign or SureSmile aligners fit comfortably into your day-to-day life.

You can take your aligners out whenever you need to eat, drink, brush and floss. That means no dietary restrictions, and you'll be able to brush and floss thoroughly and consistently.

Clear aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out to eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign or SureSmile, so you can continue to eat all the foods you love!

We recommend removing your clear aligners to avoid staining them when you consume beverages such as juices, tea or wine.

The answer to this question will depend on the severity of your misalignment and the complexity of your orthodontic issues.

Only your dentist can estimate the number of aligners you will need based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.

Yes! Anyone with healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign or SureSmile.

More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, in large part because options like clear aligners have become available.

Yes! Teens can certainly be candidates for Invisalign or SureSmile. With a little diligence, clear aligners can be an ideal option for teens experiencing various orthodontic issues and concerns.

Most patients switch to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so. Your dentist will inform you exactly how often you should replace your aligners.

Rinse your aligners each time you remove them to eliminate dried saliva and plaque, which can cause dental decay and bad breath.

1. Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the cleaning system designed by the aligner brand.
2. Brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is essential for healthy teeth and preventing cavities. Inadequate brushing and flossing can trap food and bacteria between the aligners and your teeth, raising the risk of dental issues and bad breath.
3. Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. This can help keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
4. Brush your aligners gently to not scratch them, and then rinse off the soap.

Invisalign and SureSmile aligners are removable, so you can play sports without worrying about damaging your aligners.

However, remember that clear aligners must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours daily, so plan your time carefully.

You should also invest in a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth. Orthodontic treatment can cause teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, making them more susceptible to damage.

Yes! Just remove your clear aligners while you play your instrument and pop them back in when you're done.

Your Invisalign or SureSmile clear aligners will come with a case. This is where you should put your aligners to keep them safe anytime you've removed them.