Understanding Invisalign & Clear Aligners
A straighter smile, without the metal. Here's how clear aligner treatment actually works — and how to preview your own results before you start.
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal position — no metal brackets or wires involved. Each aligner in the series is worn for one to two weeks before moving on to the next, with every stage nudging your teeth incrementally closer to their final position.
First introduced in 1997, Invisalign is the original clear aligner system and remains the most widely recognized name in the category, with millions of people treated worldwide. The aligners are made from Invisalign's proprietary SmartTrack material, engineered specifically for a closer fit and more predictable, gentle tooth movement than generic aligner plastic.
Treatment starts with a digital scan using our iTero scanner — the same technology you may have seen in our clinic photos — which builds a precise 3D model of your teeth and lets us map out your entire treatment, stage by stage, before a single aligner is made. Because the aligners are virtually invisible and fully removable, most people won't even notice you're in treatment, and you can eat, brush, and floss exactly as you did before.
Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces
Virtually Invisible
Clear plastic aligners are far less noticeable than metal brackets and wires.
No Food Restrictions
Aligners come out to eat and drink, so nothing is off-limits during treatment.
Easier to Clean
Brush and floss normally — no brackets or wires to navigate around.
Fewer Office Visits
Check-ins are typically less frequent than with traditional braces.
How Clear Aligner Treatment Works
Digital Scan & Consultation
We take a digital scan of your teeth and review whether clear aligners are a good fit for your smile.
Custom Treatment Plan
Your scan is used to map out a full series of custom aligners, showing your projected tooth movement stage by stage.
Wear Each Aligner
Wear each set for 20–22 hours a day, switching to the next aligner in the series roughly every one to two weeks.
Periodic Check-Ins
Short follow-up visits let us confirm your teeth are tracking the plan correctly.
Retention
Once treatment is complete, a retainer keeps your new smile stable long-term.
See Your Future Smile Before You Start
Try our free Invisalign SmileView tool for an instant preview of your straighter smile — no appointment needed.
We Also Offer Spark® Clear Aligners
Invisalign isn't the only clear aligner system we work with — we also offer Spark Aligners, giving you a choice of trusted systems based on what fits your case best.
TruGEN™ Material
Spark's proprietary aligner material is designed for exceptional clarity and strong stain resistance throughout treatment.
Polished, Comfortable Edges
Spark aligners are manufactured with smooth, scalloped edges for a more comfortable everyday fit.
Precise Digital Planning
Spark's Approver software gives our team detailed control over your treatment plan from start to finish.
Backed by Ormco
Spark Aligners are manufactured by Ormco, a global orthodontic company with decades of clinical research behind it.
Not sure which system is right for you? During your consultation, Dr. Yashvi Shah will recommend Invisalign or Spark based on your specific bite and alignment goals.
Book a ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Does wearing clear aligners hurt?
You may feel mild pressure for a day or two after switching to a new aligner in the series — that's a sign it's working. It's typically much milder than the discomfort associated with traditional braces.
How long does treatment take?
Most clear aligner treatments take 6 to 18 months, depending on how much correction is needed. Your treatment plan will give you a specific estimate for your case.
How many hours a day do I need to wear them?
For best results, aligners should be worn 20–22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush and floss.
Is SmileView the same as a treatment plan?
No — SmileView is a free, instant preview tool that gives you a general idea of what straighter teeth could look like. Your actual treatment plan is created from a full scan and consultation with our team.
Am I a candidate for clear aligners?
Clear aligners work well for a wide range of alignment issues, from mild crowding to more moderate bite corrections. A quick consultation with Dr. Yashvi Shah will confirm whether they're the right fit for your smile.
Curious if clear aligners are right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Yashvi Shah to find out.