Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are an effective, and discrete cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. Aligners are a series of clear, removable trays used to straighten teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit over your teeth and is designed to gradually move the teeth into their proper position.

How Clear Aligners Work

Just like braces, clear aligners use gradual force to control tooth movement, but without any metal wires or brackets. The aligners are made of a strong clear plastic material that is fabricated to fit your teeth. As treatment progresses, you switch aligners. Each aligner shifts your teeth a little more with every tray.

Custom Design: We begin by taking a digital scan of your teeth and bite to create a precise 3D model. Using this model, a series of aligners is created, each designed to move teeth slightly closer to their ideal position.
Gradual Shifts: Each set of aligners is worn as close to 24 hours as possible. You’ll move on to the next aligner set based on Dr. Thomas’s instructions. The aligners exert gentle pressure on the teeth, shifting them over time.
Monitoring Progress: After the first check, we typically see our patients every six weeks so we can monitor your progress and give you the next sets of aligners.

Why choose clear aligners for orthodontic treatment?

Aesthetic Appeal: Aligners are transparent and nearly invisible, making them an excellent choice for those who want a subtle treatment.
Comfort: Aligners are smooth and comfortable to wear.
Removable: The aligners are taken out to eat, brush, and floss, which allows for easier oral hygiene compared to traditional braces. Because the aligners are removed, there are no food restrictions.
Effectiveness: Clear aligners can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild crowding and spacing to more complex cases.
Fewer Emergencies: With no wires or brackets to break, clear aligners tend to result in fewer orthodontic emergencies.

If you're interested in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, call our office at (630) 554-5600 to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Thomas to discuss if this is the right treatment option for you.