Clear aligners
A series of clear trays made from a scan of your teeth, changed at home and checked at visits, for teens and adults whose bite the orthodontist judges a good fit.
Not every bite suits aligners, and Dr. Jafari tells you honestly when braces would do the job better. She does not promise a number of trays or a finish date before she has seen your records.
In short
Provided by an orthodontist
Trays changed at home, checked at visits
A written estimate before treatment
What happens
- 01
Step 1: Records visit
A scan of your teeth, photos, and X-rays if Dr. Jafari needs them. You hear what she sees and whether aligners fit.
- 02
Step 2: Her plan
She shows you how she expects the teeth to move, and what she cannot predict.
- 03
Step 3: Wearing the trays
You wear them nearly all day, take them out to eat and brush, and change to the next set as she directs.
- 04
Step 4: Check-in visits
We see how the teeth are tracking and hand over new trays. Treatment usually runs from several months to around two years. Results vary.
- 05
Step 5: Finishing
When the last tray is done you start wearing a retainer.
What to know before you start
Comfort
Aligners don't need numbing. Teeth can feel tight for a few days with each new set. Tell us if a tray rubs and we will look at the edge.
Alternatives, and waiting
Braces move some teeth that aligners cannot, and she says so when it is true. If you wait, teeth that are crowded or spaced can stay as they are or change slowly.
Risks and after-care
Aligners work only when worn as directed. Clean your teeth before the trays go back in, so food is not trapped against them. Some people get sore gums or small marks on teeth. Dr. Jafari explains the risks at the first visit. Wear your retainer as she directs when treatment ends.
How it is billed
You get a written estimate before treatment. Dental plans that include orthodontics may pay part of it.
How fees work
Questions about clear aligners
Can I eat with the trays in?
No. They come out for meals and go back in once your teeth are clean.
What if I lose or crack a tray?
Call us. We tell you what to do until a new one is made.
Do aligners work for every bite?
No. Dr. Jafari tells you after the exam whether aligners fit, and if braces would be better, she says so.
How often do I come in?
Dr. Jafari sets the visits for your case. She tells you the rhythm at your plan visit.
Provided by an orthodontist
Dr. Shirin Jafari, DDS, orthodontist, licensed in Indiana. Her residency and board are listed on her profile.