Clear aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth, which means they're more comfortable and effective than one-size-fits-all braces. Clear aligners are comfortable to wear and can be removed for eating and cleaning. They also require fewer office visits compared to traditional braces.
• What are clear aligners? • How do I prepare? • What can I expect? • How much will it cost? • How long will it take? • What are the results? • Do I need to see an orthodontist? • What are the benefits of clear aligners?
Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent trays designed to straighten teeth while going unnoticed. They offer an alternative to traditional braces, using a series of aligners to gradually move teeth into the desired position. Made from medical-grade plastic, they are virtually invisible, providing a cosmetically appealing option for orthodontic treatment.
Preparation for clear aligners involves a consultation with your dentist to assess your dental health and determine if aligners are suitable for you. Your dentist will take digital scans or impressions of your teeth to create a personalized treatment plan. It's essential to maintain good oral hygiene and address any dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, before starting treatment.
During treatment, you'll receive new aligners every few weeks, each set designed to move your teeth slightly. You'll wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only for eating and cleaning. Regular check-ups with our team will allow us to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
The cost of clear aligners varies based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. Our team will provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss financing options during your consultation.
The duration of clear aligner treatment depends on the severity of your orthodontic issues. On average, treatment can take anywhere from six months to two years. Our team will give you a personalized timeline based on your specific needs and goals.
Clear aligners can effectively straighten teeth, correct minor bite issues, and close gaps, resulting in a healthier, more attractive smile. The results are typically permanent, provided you follow your post-treatment instructions. Many patients report improved confidence and oral health following their treatment.
While orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting bite issues, many general dentists are certified to provide clear aligner treatments. Our dentist has undergone additional training to ensure they can effectively plan and monitor your treatment. For most mild to moderate cases, a certified general dentist can offer the same high-quality care and results as an orthodontist.
Clear aligners offer numerous benefits, including being nearly invisible, comfortable, and removable for eating and cleaning. Plus, properly aligned teeth also reduce your risk for tooth decay and gums disease as well as boost your self confidence. When compared to traditional braces, they provide a more aesthetically pleasing option. Additionally, clear aligners typically require fewer dental visits and allow for better oral hygiene maintenance during treatment.
• Clear aligners are rarely noticed by others • You can eat what you want during treatment • The trays are smooth and comfortable to wear • You don’t have to worry about poking wires or lip-snagging brackets • The trays can be removed whenever you want • Treatment is typically faster than braces
While clear aligners and braces both straighten teeth, they each do so in very different ways and with different results. Knowing whether clear aligners or braces are a better option for you largely depends on the health of your teeth, your commitment to treatment, your timeline and budget, and the advice given to you from a dental expert. If your teeth alignment issues are minimal — meaning you simply have crooked teeth — clear aligners are likely the best option for you. Crooked teeth can be straightened up to 50% faster with clear aligners than with traditional braces.
• Irremovable • Metal (typically silver) • Worn 24/7 for an average of 2 years • Maintained by regular brushing • Monthly follow-up visits • Some foods may be restricted • Ideal for severely misaligned teeth • High success rate
• Removable • Clear/“Invisible” • Worn 22-24 hrs/day for an average of 6-18 months • Maintained by brushing and rinsing trays • Aligner trays changed every 2 weeks • Must remove before eating or drinking • Ideal for mild cases of misaligned teeth • Success depends on the wearer
If you’re still unsure, schedule a FREE CONSULTATION with Advanced Brookline Dental to discuss your options. The decision is ultimately up to you, but we are happy to address your specific needs and answer any questions you might have.
One-on-One Doctor-Patient Education - We will explain all the details of your oral health in an easy-to-understand manner and go over the entire treatment process. We will answer any questions you might have. Customized Treatment Planning - Your treatment will be designed around your specific needs, timeline and budget. We will also review pricing and financial options, if needed. Intraoral Exam - A thorough exam of your mouth will be performed prior to planning treatment. This will allow us to properly assess your oral condition.
"So kind and considerate! I often get nervous about dental care but the team here is wonderful and I always leave feeling better about my oral health! "
The cost of Invisalign and clear aligner therapy at Advanced Brookline Dental varies depending on the complexity of your specific case and the duration of your treatment. Because every smile is unique, we provide a detailed cost estimate during your initial consultation with Dr. Laura Galiazzo. Generally, the investment is comparable to traditional braces, but with the added benefits of comfort and aesthetics. Regarding insurance, many dental insurance plans that cover orthodontics will also cover a portion of Invisalign treatment. For patients without insurance, we are proud to offer affordable in-house membership plans and financing options to ensure you can achieve the smile you deserve. Our team will happily review your benefits and explain all financial options to make your care stress-free and accessible.
For many adult and teen patients in the Brookline and Greater Boston area, Invisalign is often considered a superior choice due to lifestyle and aesthetic benefits. Unlike traditional metal braces, which are irremovable and can cause irritation with wires and brackets, clear aligners are made from smooth, medical-grade plastic that is virtually invisible. This allows you to straighten your teeth discreetly without drawing attention to your dental work. Functionally, clear aligners offer significant advantages regarding hygiene and diet. Because the trays are removable, you can brush and floss normally, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease. You can also eat whatever you want without food restrictions. However, traditional braces may still be recommended for severe misalignment cases. During your consultation, Dr. Galiazzo will help you determine which method is best suited for your dental health and alignment goals.
At Advanced Brookline Dental, we find that clear aligner treatment is often faster than traditional orthodontics for mild to moderate cases. On average, treatment time ranges from 6 to 18 months, though some patients may see their desired results in as little as six months. In fact, for issues like simple crowding or spacing, clear aligners can sometimes straighten teeth up to 50% faster than metal braces. The exact duration depends heavily on your compliance. For the treatment to remain on schedule, you must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, and clean your teeth. You will switch to a new set of custom-molded aligners every few weeks to gradually shift your teeth into place. Dr. Galiazzo will provide a personalized timeline during your visit so you know exactly what to expect.
While orthodontists specialize in tooth movement, you do not necessarily need to see a separate specialist for clear aligner therapy. Many certified general dentists, including Dr. Laura Galiazzo, are highly trained to provide Invisalign and clear aligner treatments with excellent results. Dr. Galiazzo has completed numerous continuing education courses in modern dental care, including Invisalign, ensuring she has the expertise to plan and monitor your transformation effectively. Choosing Advanced Brookline Dental for your aligners means you can receive comprehensive care—from routine cleanings to cosmetic straightening—all under one roof. For most mild to moderate alignment issues, a certified general dentist can offer the same high-quality outcomes as an orthodontist, often with the added convenience of fewer referrals and a team that already knows your dental history.
One of the primary reasons patients choose clear aligners over traditional braces is the level of comfort. Invisalign uses smooth, custom-fitted trays that eliminate the poking wires and sharp brackets associated with metal braces, preventing the lip and cheek irritation that often occurs with orthodontic hardware. While you may experience some minor pressure or tenderness for a day or two after switching to a new set of aligners, this is a normal sign that the treatment is working to gently shift your teeth into their correct positions. This sensation is typically mild and fades quickly. Our goal at Advanced Brookline Dental is "Where Comfort Meets Beautiful Results," and we utilize the latest technology to ensure your path to a straighter smile is as gentle and stress-free as possible.
