Adults and teens who will wear trays 20 to 22 hours a day
Clear aligners
Nearly invisible trays you swap every week or two. Great for adults and responsible teens.
- Typical time
- 6 to 24 months
- Visits
- Every 8 to 12 weeks, some check-ins by photo
- Typical cost
- From $2,800 for a minor case
How it works
Clear aligners are thin plastic trays made from a 3D scan of your teeth. Each set moves teeth a small step, and you switch to the next set every 1 to 2 weeks. They come out to eat and brush, which makes cleaning easy. The catch is wear time: aligners only work while they are in your mouth, so they suit people who will keep them in all day.
Often a good fit for
- Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
- Teeth that shifted after braces years ago
- Adults who want something less noticeable at work
- Teens who are ready to keep track of their trays
Only an exam can say for sure. The consult is free.
Start to finish
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Step 1: Free consult
We scan your teeth and show a preview of how they could move, with a time range.
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Step 2: Start day
Small tooth-colored bumps (attachments) go on a few teeth to help the trays grip.
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Step 3: Swap and check
Change trays every 1 to 2 weeks at home. Check-ins every 8 to 12 weeks, some by photo.
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Step 4: Finish and retain
Fine-tuning trays if needed, then retainers to hold the result.
Time and cost
6 to 24 months Minor cases often finish in 6 to 12 months. Full cases usually take 12 to 24 months.
Visits: every 8 to 12 weeks, some check-ins by photo.
| Option | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Minor aligner case Small crowding or shifting, usually up to 20 trays | $2,800 to $4,200 |
| Full aligner case Both arches, refinement trays included, first retainers included | $5,200 to $7,600 |
Typical ranges in USD before insurance. Your exact fee is written down at the consult, with the monthly plan beside it. How payment plans and insurance work
Day to day
- Wear trays 20 to 22 hours a day. Take them out only to eat, drink anything but water, and brush.
- Brush before putting trays back in, so food is not trapped against your teeth.
- Keep the case with you. Most lost trays end up wrapped in a napkin.
- Expect a lisp for a day or two with each new set. It fades fast.
The honest part
Aligners are not right for every bite. Some big bite changes still move better with braces, and we will say so at the consult instead of selling you trays.
Questions about clear aligners
Are clear aligners as good as braces?
For many mild to moderate cases, yes. For some bigger bite changes, braces are more predictable. We explain which one fits your teeth and why, and you choose.
Can teens use aligners?
Yes, if they will wear them. Teen aligners include a few spare trays, and we check wear at each visit. If wear slips, we talk about options together.
Other treatments
See if aligners can do the job.
Exam, photos, a 3D scan and a written plan with the price. About an hour, and no pressure to start.