What are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are a treatment alternative to traditional metal braces that work to gradually straighten teeth through the process of wearing a series of clear, custom-fit removable aligners. There are no brackets or wires like traditional metal braces and because of this, they are esthetically pleasing.

How do clear aligners work?

These plastic trays are created from molds of your teeth, which can be created using a 3D scan of your teeth. The Dentist will plot the movements your teeth need to make using software and create a series of clear aligners<https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-45781-9_44>, each representing a step in the treatment process. The clear aligners provide gentle force over time to move your teeth. Typically, you will change aligners every 2 weeks. Each set of aligners will gently move your teeth with precision to achieve the ideal smile. The number of clear aligners you need will depend on how much your teeth need to move. For the best results possible it is recommended that clear aligners are worn between 20-22 hours each day (including while asleep) and only removed for eating and drinking purposes.

Will my insurance pay for clear aligners?
Many dental insurance plans cover treatment with clear aligners the same way they would cover traditional braces. Coverage will vary per person, per insurance plan guidelines, and may include coverage up to a certain percentage or dollar amount.