Clear Aligners

How Clear Aligners Work

Clear aligners have transformed orthodontic treatment, offering a way to straighten teeth without the brackets, wires, and visibility of traditional braces. At Chips Dental Associates, we offer clear aligner options at our Gibsonia and Pittsburgh offices, including Invisalign and SureSmile, to help patients of all ages achieve a more aligned, confident smile.

Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, removable trays designed to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Each set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks before being replaced with the next set in the series. Over the course of treatment, your teeth move incrementally until they reach the final alignment your dentist has planned.

The process begins with a digital scan of your teeth using our iTero scanner. This creates a precise 3D model that allows us to map your entire treatment from beginning to end. You can even see a preview of your projected results before committing to treatment.

Clear Aligner Options at Chips Dental

Invisalign

Invisalign is the most widely recognized clear aligner brand and is effective for a broad range of orthodontic issues, from simple spacing corrections to more complex bite problems. Learn more about our Invisalign treatment.

SureSmile

SureSmile clear aligners use advanced digital planning technology to deliver precise, efficient tooth movement. SureSmile is often available at a competitive price point while delivering excellent results. Learn more about our SureSmile treatment.

During your consultation, we will evaluate your teeth and recommend the aligner system that best fits your needs and budget.

What Can Clear Aligners Fix?

Clear aligners are effective for treating a variety of orthodontic concerns, including crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps and spacing issues, overbite, underbite, and crossbite, and mild to moderate misalignment. For more complex cases that require significant tooth movement or jaw correction, traditional braces may be a better option. Our team will recommend the right approach based on your specific situation.

Advantages of Clear Aligners Over Traditional Braces

Clear aligners offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for teens and adults. The trays are nearly invisible, so most people will not notice you are wearing them. They are removable, which means no food restrictions and easier brushing and flossing. There are no metal brackets or wires to cause irritation. Treatment visits are typically shorter and less frequent. Many cases can be completed faster than with traditional braces.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners

How long does clear aligner treatment take?

Most clear aligner treatments take 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the alignment issues being corrected.

How many hours a day do I need to wear my aligners?

For best results, aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day. Remove them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.

Are clear aligners covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits cover clear aligners. We also offer financing options to help make treatment affordable.

Can teenagers use clear aligners?

Yes. Clear aligners are a great option for teens who are responsible enough to wear them consistently. We also offer traditional braces for teens who prefer that option or have more complex needs.

Schedule Your Clear Aligner Consultation

Find out if clear aligners are the right choice for your smile. Contact Chips Dental Associates to schedule a consultation at our Gibsonia or Pittsburgh office.

Gibsonia Location: 5615 William Flynn Highway, Gibsonia, PA 15044 | Phone: (724) 443-5710

Pittsburgh Location: 100 McKnight Park Drive, Suite 106, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 | Phone: (412) 364-7144