The original and most well-known clear aligner orthodontic system is Invisalign; however, this is not the only system available. Several other systems (Clear Correct, Red White & Blue, Simpli5, etc.) can also be viable options for many patients.

Clear aligners work nearly invisibly to correct many orthodontic problems; however, they can NOT resolve every orthodontic problem. For example, clear aligners can NOT expand or develop dental arches, they do NOT work well to correct a large overjet, they are not very good at extruding teeth or correcting large rotations. In other words, clear aligners are a great tool, but only when used in the right situations. If the treating doctor only offers clear aligners for every orthodontic situation then compromises have to be accepted. In other words, if a hammer is the only tool a carpenter has then everything starts looking like a nail.

The advantages of clear aligners over conventional braces are: aesthetics (virtually invisible), comfort (no braces rubbing on lips and cheeks) and ease of cleaning teeth (aligners are removed to brush and floss). Disadvantages: limited application (not all orthodontic cases can be adequately treated with clear aligners), cost (typically higher than conventional braces), compliance (since aligners can be removed the doctor has to rely on the patient to wear the aligners the appropriate number of hours per day) and treatment time (clear aligners often take longer than conventional braces).

For a clear aligner patient the process is pretty straight forward. Impressions, x-rays and photos are sent to the company making the aligners. The doctor will fill out an online prescription telling the aligner company what the desired final results of the case should be. The aligner company then creates a computer animation of what the case will look like as it progresses from start to finish. If the doctor is happy with the proposed treatment then the treatment is approved and fabrication of the aligners begins. On completion of fabrication the aligners are shipped to the dental office where the first aligner is delivered to the patient.

Aligners have to be worn 20+ hrs/day or they do not work. A new set of aligners is worn every 2-3 weeks depending on the system being used. Typically, a patient is seen in the dental office every six weeks. The total treatment time depends on the severity of the orthodontic case but average treatment time is around 12 months.

In our office, we offer multiple solutions for our orthodontic patients. If clear aligners are a viable option then we will offer that option to our patients; including giving them the option of which aligner company they would prefer to use. But if using clear aligners would result in compromises then we will certainly inform our patient and give them other options.

Clear aligners are a wonderful orthodontic option for many people both old and young. We invite you to give us a call (714-838-0760) for a consultation or second opinion to determine if clear aligners are your best option.