FAQ Aligner

What are clear aligners?

Clear aligners are customized, removable trays that apply gentle pressure to move teeth into their ideal positions over time. They are virtually invisible and designed to blend seamlessly with your lifestyle. They can be perfect for patients seeking a discreet orthodontic option in Santa Clara.

How do clear aligners work?

Clear aligners straighten teeth through a series of digitally designed, precisely engineered trays.
Here’s the step-by-step process:

Digital 3D scan of your teeth
Orthodontic treatment planning using advanced software
Custom-fabricated aligner sets
You wear each aligner for 1–2 weeks, progressing through the series
Teeth gradually move following the prescribed digital roadmap

Aligners are most effective under the care of a licensed orthodontist who monitors your progress and ensures safe, controlled movement.

What are the advantages of clear aligners compared to braces?

Clear aligners offer several benefits that make them popular among patients searching for aligners near me:

Nearly invisible appearance
Removable for meals, brushing, and flossing
Easier oral hygiene
No food restrictions
Fewer office visits
Comfortable: no brackets or wires
Predictable digital treatment planning

Many adults choose aligners specifically for their aesthetic appeal and convenience.

How long does clear aligner treatment take?

Treatment typically ranges from 6 to 24 months, depending on:

Complexity of your bite
Consistency of wear
Needed tooth movement

How often do I wear my aligners?

You should wear your aligners 22 hours per day, removing them only for:

Eating
Drinking anything besides water
Brushing and flossing

Treatment success depends heavily on patient compliance.

Will aligners affect my speech?

Some patients may experience a slight lisp for a few days, but most people adjust quickly. The thin, custom-fit trays are designed for natural speaking.

What can I eat and drink with aligners?

One major advantage of aligners over braces is no food restrictions!

Rules to follow:

Remove aligners for meals
Drink only water with aligners in
Avoid hot beverages, which may warp trays

Always brush before putting your aligners back in to prevent staining and decay.

Can I drink coffee or wine with aligners in?

We strongly recommend taking them out.

Staining: Coffee, red wine, and tea will stain the plastic yellow, making your "invisible" aligners very visible.
Sugar: Trapping sugar against your teeth inside the tray can increase risk of cavities.

Can I Play Sports With Clear Aligners?

Yes, you can wear clear aligners while participating in most non-contact or low-contact sports. They fit snugly over your teeth and generally stay secure during physical activity. For contact or high-impact sports, additional precautions are recommended.

Are clear aligners painful or uncomfortable?

Aligners apply gentle, controlled force. Some mild pressure or sensitivity is normal when switching to a new tray, but discomfort is typically less than traditional braces. When you switch to a new tray, you will feel "pressure" or "soreness" for the first day.

How do I clean my aligners?

To keep aligners fresh and clear:

Rinse with cool water
Brush gently with a soft toothbrush
Use orthodontic-approved cleaning crystals or tablets
Avoid hot water (it can warp aligners)

Cleaning your teeth before reinserting aligners helps maintain clarity and hygiene.

What happens if I lose an aligner?

Call our Santa Clara orthodontic office immediately. We may instruct you to move to the next aligner, wear the previous aligner, or we may order a replacement tray.

The right step depends on your treatment stage.

What are aligner attachments?

Attachments are tiny, tooth-colored “buttons” bonded to certain teeth to help aligners apply the right forces. They improve control for different movements on teeth.

Are clear aligners covered by insurance?

If your dental insurance includes orthodontic coverage, it will typically apply to aligners just as it would with braces. We help patients verify their benefits during their consultation.

Do I need retainers after aligner treatment?

Yes, retainers are essential to keep teeth from shifting after treatment.

What are clear aligners?

Can I drink coffee or wine with aligners in?

Request An Appointment