Clear aligners like Invisalign and Angel straighten your teeth with a series of clear, removable trays worn 20 to 22 hours a day, and most treatments take about 9 to 18 months. Below are direct answers to the questions we hear most often about clear aligners at Robert Stoner Orthodontics in Greensboro and Summerfield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do so many patients love clear aligners?
Clear aligners offer a lot to like. The clear plastic trays are nearly invisible, and because you remove them to eat, there are no food restrictions. Treatment is straightforward too: you typically receive your trays in advance and change them yourself on schedule, which means fewer trips to our office. Most patients also find aligners more comfortable than other options, with no brackets or wires.
Are clear aligners right for me?
Clear aligners are a powerful, comfortable, and convenient way to correct most spacing issues and mild to moderate bite or alignment problems. Many people underestimate them, but for the right case they work beautifully, no matter how active your lifestyle is. Some complex corrections are still better treated with braces. The only way to know for sure is a free consultation, where we examine your smile and give you an honest recommendation.
What is the difference between Angel Aligners and Invisalign?
Both Angel Aligners and Invisalign are high-quality clear-aligner systems that use custom, removable trays and advanced digital planning to straighten teeth discreetly. They differ mainly in their materials and design details rather than in how well they work. We offer both so we can match you with the system that best fits your case, your goals, and your budget. At your consultation, we will walk you through the options and help you choose with confidence.
How often do I wear my aligners?
You wear each set of aligners 20 to 22 hours a day for the best results. Take them out only to eat, to drink anything other than water, and to brush and floss your teeth.
How long does treatment last?
Treatment takes an average of 9 to 18 months, though it can be shorter or longer depending on how much movement your smile needs. At your first appointment, we make a digital impression of your teeth and your custom trays are made from it. Once they are ready, we fit your first set, walk you through the process, and check your progress every few weeks while you change to a new tray on the schedule we give you.
How much do clear aligners cost in Greensboro?
The cost depends on how much tooth movement you need and how long you are in treatment, so we provide an exact quote after your free consultation. We make treatment affordable with interest-free, in-house payment plans, low or no down payment, manageable monthly options, and CareCredit financing. We are in-network with Cigna and Delta Dental and accept most PPO plans, HSA, and FSA funds. We do not participate in Medicaid or Medicare.
How do I keep my aligners clean?
Keeping your aligners clean protects both your trays and your oral health. Each time you remove your aligners to brush your teeth, gently brush the aligners as well and rinse them with warm (not hot) water to clear away any bacteria or food particles.
What happens after treatment?
Once you finish your aligners and love your smile, you wear a retainer full-time for a few months to hold your teeth in their new position. After that, you switch to wearing your retainer only at night. Skipping your retainer lets your teeth drift back toward where they started, so wearing it as directed protects all the work you have put in.
Still Have Questions?
We are happy to answer anything we did not cover here. Call our Beaman Place office at (336) 274-7649 or our Lake Brandt office at (336) 644-1464, or request a free consultation online. Robert Stoner Orthodontics proudly serves Greensboro, Summerfield, and the surrounding Guilford County communities.