Frequently Asked Questions
Our aligners are made using the latest technology in orthodontic appliances for straightening teeth. Our orthodontic lab technicians create our incredibly clear, comfortable, snug-fitting, customized, and removable aligners using state-of-the art software and molding plastics.
Our aligners are completely clear and transparent. We use a new technology that makes them even clearer than other similar aligners on the market. Even when close up and face-to-face with someone, most people find it almost impossible to notice the aligners.
Our aligners are fully FDA approved and are made from medical grade plastic from DENTSPLY RaintreeEssix, USA and are free of BPA or latex.
Some people are allergic to plastics. If you experience any allergic reaction to the aligners, please stop wearing them immediately and seek medical assistance, if necessary. Contact us for further information.
Our process is similar to Invisalign. The aligners are molded based on your impressions. Our dental technicians usually create 6–20 sets (or more if necessary) of aligners. Each set of aligners is worn for 2 weeks. Each set is a little different from the previous one. They work by gently putting a bit of pressure on your teeth, slowly and gently moving your teeth into their final, straighter position. At the end of treatment, you will have to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new position. We also supply you with a retainer.
Yes, our aligners can fix both types of problems. Our clear, plastic aligners use a process for aligning upper and/or lower teeth requiring minor to medium movement. They can be used for reduction of spacing or gaps, as well as for correction of crowding issues. The aligners work by putting gentle pressure on your teeth, moving them into their desired position
Every case is different as it depends on the corrections needed for your teeth and your treatment plan. Most treatments are in the 3–9 month range, for some patients treatment can take up to 18 months.
Smile aligners can fix what is called minor or medium malocclusion. In everyday language that means that we can reduce gaps, reduce crowding, and straighten most teeth, but we cannot correct every case. We will evaluate your case, and get further information from you, including your dental health history.
Some people have severe crowding, or bone or other structural issues, or certain dental diseases, which make having aligners or even other braces difficult. Some people with severe or complex cases may benefit from traditional metal braces and/or other dental work (including possibly surgery) instead of, or before, being eligible for clear aligners.
Yes, our dental team is led by an orthodontist, as well as dental technicians, who evaluate your health and dental history to make sure all is in order. If everything looks good, they create your entire treatment plan choosing a time span that will safely and comfortably move your teeth into their new, straighter position.
In some cases, it is better to wait until your wisdom teeth have been taken out, such as with crowding issues. This is why we suggest to everyone to get a dental check-up before starting any aligner treatment. We will advise you if you need to get your wisdom teeth removed before getting an aligner treatment.
Yes, it is possible to do only upper or lower teeth, but most people need to get both aligners. This is because a shift in the upper teeth can cause changes in the bite, which will affect the lower teeth. So to get a perfect bite and straight, healthy teeth, the whole mouth needs to be treated.
Yes. You will need to do an impression and get our aligners. At the end of the treatment, you will also receive a custom-made retainer to fit your new smile. You need to regularly wear your retainer in order to keep your teeth from shifting again.
Yes, you are the perfect candidate. Your problem is likely from something called relapse in which after orthodontic treatment, if retainers are not used properly and consistently, some teeth start shifting back to their original position.
Our dental team will create a space inside the aligner for the missing tooth. You can then have a bridge or implant after the aligner treatment. Alternatively, you can get the bridge or crown done first, and our team will create aligners and a treatment plan that allows the space for that permanent dental work.
Yes, you can still get the aligners. The aligner treatment is not going to affect the space of the missing tooth because our orthodontists and dentists will create a space inside the aligner for your missing tooth or teeth. That way, you can then have aligner treatment first and then the bridge/implant can be placed later.
Yes, first our lab receives your impressions. Our dental team then creates a custom treatment plan which includes exactly how long your treatment will take. You will be able to see a 3-D plan of how your teeth look before and after treatment
The Aligner may feel a little uncomfortable for the first few days as you get used to wearing it. Aligners work by putting gentle pressure on the teeth causing movement over time. Some people might be more sensitive and notice some soreness, or they may need to adjust their aligners a little bit. We provide all the tools and instructions to make your transition as comfortable as possible.
Our aligners fit so well that most people find they only affect their speech for a few hours or a few days. Some people might take longer for their mouth and brains to adjust. After the initial adjustment period, you should be able to speak perfectly fine.
Yes, each treatment plan is uniquely made for you based on the 3-D models created from your impression kit. Each treatment plan consists of a step-by-step approach to creating aligners that take you from your first day of treatment to the day your smile is perfected.
To keep your new smile perfect, we will give you a retainer to wear as needed. We also supply you with free whitening gel for life to keep that smile not only straight, but white.
Yes, our aligners are an FDA approved way to straighten your teeth. Generally you can use funds from flex spending accounts and health savings accounts for orthodontic appliances like aligners. We can provide you with additional documentation if you need it.
You should also take them out during any sports activity where you would normally wear protective mouth guards.
You should wear your aligners for 20–22 hours a day, taking them out to eat or brush your teeth. As they are fully removable, eating, brushing, and flossing becomes a breeze.