Clear Aligners

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-made, smooth plastic trays to move your teeth into the right position over time. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.

Here is how the process works. Your orthodontist takes a digital scan of your teeth using the TRIOS system — no messy putty impressions needed. That scan is used to design a custom treatment plan that maps out exactly how your teeth will shift from start to finish. You receive a series of aligner trays, and each set is worn for about one to two weeks before you switch to the next one. Each new tray brings your teeth a little closer to their final position.

At Enoch & Lamei Orthodontics, we use two leading clear aligner systems:

• 3M Clarity Aligners — made with advanced ClarityFlex material for a comfortable, precise fit
• Angel Aligners — designed with flexibility and accuracy for a wide range of cases

Both systems deliver excellent results under the care of a board-certified orthodontist who specializes in tooth movement and bite correction.

Benefits of Clear Aligners at Enoch & Lamei Orthodontics

Discreet Appearance

Clear aligners are made from smooth, transparent plastic that fits close to your teeth. Most people will not even notice you are wearing them. This makes clear aligner therapy a popular choice for adults at work, teens at school, and anyone who wants to feel confident during treatment.

Removable for Meals and Oral Care

You can take your aligners out before meals, so there are no food restrictions. Enjoy your favorite snacks without worrying about breaking a bracket. Brushing and flossing are also easier because you clean your teeth the same way you always have — no threading floss under wires.

Comfortable Fit

Each set of aligners is custom-shaped to your teeth and gums. The smooth plastic means no irritation to your cheeks and lips from brackets or wires. Most patients feel mild pressure when they switch to a new tray, but it fades quickly.

Fewer Office Visits

Clear aligner patients typically visit our Marietta or Roswell office every six to eight weeks for a progress check. That means less time away from school, work, or activities compared to traditional braces, which usually need adjustment every four to six weeks.

Better Hygiene During Treatment

Because you remove your aligners to brush and floss, it is much easier to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment. With braces, food can get trapped around brackets and wires, making cleaning more difficult.

Clear Aligners vs. Braces

Choosing between clear aligners and braces is one of the most common decisions our patients face. Both options can create a healthy, beautiful smile, but they work in different ways. Here is a side-by-side look at how they compare:

When do braces work better? For severe crowding, large gaps, complex bite problems, or teeth that need significant rotation, traditional braces can apply more force and control than aligners. Braces are also a strong choice for younger patients who may have trouble wearing aligners consistently.

When are clear aligners the better fit? If you have mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or bite issues and want a discreet treatment option, clear aligners are an excellent choice. They are especially popular with adults and responsible teens who can commit to wearing their trays 20 to 22 hours a day.

The best way to find out which option is right for you is to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Enoch or Dr. Lamei. They will evaluate your teeth, discuss your goals, and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners work well for a wide range of patients. You may be a good candidate if you have:

• Mild to moderate crowding or overlapping teeth
• Gaps or spacing between teeth
• An overbite, underbite, or crossbite that is not severe
• Teeth that need minor rotation or shifting
• A desire for a less visible treatment option

Clear Aligners for Teens

Many teens do great with clear aligners. The key is being responsible enough to wear the trays for 20 to 22 hours each day and remembering to put them back in after meals. If your teen plays sports or a musical instrument, aligners can be a convenient option since they can be removed during activities.

Clear Aligners for Adults

It is never too late to straighten your teeth. Adult orthodontics with clear aligners is one of our most requested treatments. Adults love the discreet look of aligners, and the removable design makes it easy to maintain your professional appearance during treatment.

When Braces May Be a Better Choice

Not every case is right for aligners. Dr. Enoch and Dr. Lamei may recommend braces if your case involves severe crowding, complex bite correction, or teeth that need large vertical or rotational movements. During your consultation, they will explain which option gives you the best results for your specific situation.

What to Expect During Clear Aligner Treatment

Step 1: Free Consultation

Your journey starts with a complimentary consultation at our Marietta or Roswell office. Dr. Enoch or Dr. Lamei will examine your teeth, take digital scans, and discuss your smile goals. You will leave with a clear understanding of your treatment options, timeline, and cost.

Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan

Using advanced 3D imaging technology, your orthodontist designs a precise plan that maps every stage of your tooth movement. You will even get a preview of your expected results before treatment begins.

Step 3: Receive Your Aligners

Once your custom aligners are ready, you will come in to pick up your first set. Your orthodontist will make sure they fit correctly and show you how to insert and remove them. You will also receive your next several sets to change at home on schedule.

Step 4: Wear and Switch

Wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. Remove them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing your teeth. Switch to a new set of trays every one to two weeks as directed by your orthodontist.

Step 5: Progress Checkups

Visit our office every six to eight weeks so Dr. Enoch or Dr. Lamei can check your progress and give you new sets of aligners. These visits are quick — usually about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Smile

When treatment is complete, you will wear retainers to keep your teeth in their new position. Retainers are an important part of every orthodontic treatment, whether you had aligners or braces.

Clear Aligner Cost and Insurance

The cost of clear aligner therapy varies depending on the complexity of your case and how long treatment takes. In general, clear aligners are priced similarly to traditional braces, making them an affordable option for many families.

At Enoch & Lamei Orthodontics, we work with most major insurance plans and will help you maximize your orthodontic benefits. We also offer flexible financing options, including:

• Interest-free monthly payment plans
• Multiple payment options to fit your budget
• Insurance filing assistance

Your free consultation includes a full cost estimate with no surprises. We believe that finances should never stand in the way of a great smile.