Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a great alternative to traditional braces for teens and adults.

Dr. Clauss will determine at the time of your initial appointment what the best treatment option is for you or your child depending on age, oral care, length of treatment, and complexity of the case.

Clear aligners revolutionized the orthodontic industry nearly 20 years ago. Thanks to many of the advancements that have been made, the clear aligners are an excellent choice for most of our adult patients.

Clear aligners are an ideal option for adult patients who are worried about cosmetic concerns with traditional braces.

Dr. Clauss will be able to determine if you are a candidate for clear aligners after the initial consultation.

Clear aligners are more affordable than ever. In some cases, it is almost the same as traditional braces, or just slightly more.

Your insurance may even cover a portion of your treatment. Call us or schedule a free exam.

Clear aligners are made of translucent, BPA-free plastic material.

When they’re over your teeth, it is very difficult to notice that there is anything there.

In most cases, someone needs to be inches away from your teeth to see that there is something over them.

Yes. Clear aligners can also double as bleaching trays.

Ask your dentist which type of whitening solution is the best to use.

We recommend a prescription grade gel that is purchased directly through your dental practice, as they work more effectively than over the counter products.

Your clear aligner trays need to be removed anytime you’re drinking something with color or sugar, as well as during every meal.

The aligners are not meant to be worn when you are chewing, as it can damage the material.

The only other time clear aligners are removed is when you’re brushing and flossing. Otherwise, you should be wearing your aligners for a minimum of 20-22 hours a day.

Most clear aligner cases require 12-16 months to complete.

More cosmetic/minor cases can take less than that, while complex treatments may last closer to two years.

Dr. Clauss can provide you with an estimated timeline at the time of your new patient consultation.

Most patients need to be seen for a brief check every 8-10 weeks or so.

This is less frequently than our patients that are wearing conventional braces, who usually stop by every 6-8 weeks.

Dr. Clauss will determine the best interval to change aligners based on the types of movements the aligners are performing. Sometimes it’s two weeks, 10 days or seven days.

Remove your aligners and brush them clean with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm tap water.

Do not use hot or boiling water, as this can cause the trays to warp.

Nonabrasive toothpaste is also safe to use, but avoid rough-textured products or baking soda, as they can cause the aligners to scratch (and collect stain.)