What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are a removable orthodontic system that uses a series of transparent, custom-fitted trays to move teeth gradually into proper alignment. Like Invisalign, clear aligners offer a discreet, comfortable alternative to traditional braces. They are designed using digital impressions and treatment planning software, with each tray in the series engineered to produce specific, incremental tooth movements over the course of treatment.
Clear Aligners: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | Every 6 to 10 weeks |
| Time needed | Usually 6 to 18 months |
| Anesthesia | None |
| Daily wear | 20 to 22 hours |
| How long it lasts | Permanent with retainers |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Who Clear Aligners Are For
Clear aligners are best suited for mild to moderate orthodontic concerns, including spacing, minor crowding, and certain bite adjustments. They share many of the same advantages as Invisalign, including removability, comfort, and near-invisibility. For patients with more complex alignment needs that require the precision of fixed brackets, metal braces, ceramic braces, or lingual braces may deliver a better outcome.
Clear aligners work on the same principle as Invisalign, which is one brand of aligner. Whichever system is used, the result depends on a good plan, regular supervision and consistent wear.
- Mild crowding or small gaps
- Minor relapse after braces
- Front teeth that need limited correction
- Adults who want a discreet option
- Patients who can commit to full-time wear
Clear Aligners at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, clear aligner treatment is provided by Dr. Marina Rubinshtein, who evaluates each patient’s alignment, bite, and aesthetic goals to determine whether clear aligners are the right approach. Dr. Marina plans the full sequence of tooth movements digitally before treatment begins, ensuring that each tray in the series contributes to a predictable, controlled result. Patients are seen at regular intervals to monitor progress and receive their next sets of trays.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Exam and scan. We check your teeth, gums and bite and take a digital scan.
- Plan. A sequence of tooth movements is designed.
- Fitting. Aligners are fitted and attachments placed if needed.
- Wear and change. Each set is worn for one to two weeks.
- Reviews. Progress is checked regularly.
- Retention. Retainers are fitted at the end.
Dentist-supervised aligners compared with mail-order aligners
| Feature | Supervised in the dental office | Mail-order |
|---|---|---|
| Exam and X-rays before treatment | Yes | Often not |
| Attachments and tooth reshaping available | Yes | No |
| In-person progress checks | Yes | No |
| Bite problems treated | Many | Limited |
The aligner brand matters less than the diagnosis behind it. Teeth should only be moved through healthy bone and gums.
Living with Your Appliance
Day-to-day care
The first week
- Expect tightness for a few days with each new set
- Wear aligners as close to 22 hours a day as you can
- Use the chewing aids provided to seat the aligners fully
Throughout treatment
- Brush and floss before reinserting aligners
- Drink only water with aligners in
- Store aligners in their case when eating
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- An aligner does not fit
- A tray breaks or is lost
- A tooth feels painful or loose beyond the first few days of a new set
Cost and Insurance
Orthodontic fees are usually quoted as one amount for the whole course of treatment, including adjustments and the first set of retainers.
What affects the cost
- The complexity of the tooth movement needed
- The type of appliance chosen
- The expected length of treatment
- Retainers and any replacement aligners
Some dental plans include an orthodontic benefit with a lifetime maximum. Payment is often spread across the months of treatment. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
For typical price ranges, read our guide to how much clear aligners cost in Brooklyn.
