Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-fitted, removable trays to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. They are an established option for both teens and adults, and they are well-suited to a range of common alignment concerns, including crowding, spacing, and certain bite issues.
At Starling Orthodontics in Brentwood, TN, clear aligner treatment is provided by Dr. Craig Starling, a specialist in orthodontics. Treatment planning is based on detailed imaging and records taken at your initial visit, and your progress is monitored by an orthodontist throughout the process. If you have questions about whether clear aligners are appropriate for your situation, a consultation is the right place to start.
Continue reading to learn how clear aligner treatment works at Starling Orthodontics, what to expect during treatment, and how to get started.
Clear aligners are suitable for a wide range of orthodontic cases, but candidacy depends on the specifics of your teeth and bite. A clinical evaluation is the only reliable way to determine whether they are the right treatment for your situation.
Clear aligners are commonly used to address:
Both teens and adults are treated with clear aligners at Starling Orthodontics. Adults often find them practical because they are removable and discreet. Teens benefit from the same removability, particularly when it comes to maintaining oral hygiene during treatment. You can learn more about how clear aligners work in our overview of Invisalign as a straightening option.
Some cases involve tooth movements or bite corrections that are better addressed through other orthodontic approaches. At your consultation, Dr. Starling will review your records and give you a straightforward assessment of which treatment options are appropriate for your case.
Clear aligner treatment at Starling Orthodontics begins with a consultation and full records appointment. During that visit, detailed imaging and photos are taken so Dr. Starling can plan treatment specifically for your teeth and bite. From there, your aligners are custom-fabricated based on that plan.
When your aligners are ready, you'll come in for a delivery appointment. At that visit, you'll receive your first sets of trays and a thorough walkthrough of how to wear and care for them. You'll leave with a clear understanding of your schedule and what to expect going forward.
Throughout treatment, Dr. Starling monitors your progress at each appointment. These visits confirm that your teeth are moving as planned and allow for any adjustments that may be needed along the way. If you'd like to learn more about how clear aligner treatment works before your consultation, our overview of Invisalign and clear aligner treatment is a helpful place to start.
Day to day, treatment involves switching to a new set of aligners on the schedule your orthodontist establishes. Check-in appointments are spaced to give your treatment the oversight it needs while working around a typical schedule.
The core stages of treatment include:
Treatment timelines vary from person to person. Simpler cases with minor spacing or crowding tend to move more quickly. Cases involving more complex tooth movements or bite correction take longer. There is no universal answer, and anyone who gives you one without examining your teeth first is guessing.
The most significant factor within your control is how consistently you wear your aligners. They need to be in your mouth for the majority of each day to move teeth according to your treatment plan. Removing them too frequently or for extended periods slows progress and can affect your overall outcome.
A few other factors influence how treatment progresses:
A consultation is the only way to get an honest picture of what your treatment would involve. Dr. Starling will review your teeth and bite, and give you a realistic sense of what to expect before you make any decisions.
The cost of clear aligner treatment depends on the specifics of your case, the complexity of your alignment issues, and the length of treatment involved. Because every patient's situation is different, the most accurate way to understand what treatment will cost is to come in for a consultation, where the team can review your teeth and give you a clear picture of what to expect.
If you have orthodontic insurance, your plan may cover a portion of clear aligner treatment. Coverage varies by plan, so it's helpful to bring your insurance information to your consultation. The team can assist you in understanding your benefits so you can make an informed decision before moving forward.
For costs not covered by insurance, flexible payment options are available to help make treatment more accessible. When you come in, it's worth asking about:
Orthodontic treatment is a meaningful commitment of time and trust. At Starling Orthodontics, care is led by Dr. Craig Starling, a specialist whose training and practice are focused heavily on orthodontics. That focus shapes how treatment is planned and how patients are cared for throughout the process.
Treatment plans are built around each patient individually. What works well for a teenager may not be the right approach for an adult, and the consultation process is designed to account for those differences. The goal is a treatment plan that reflects your specific teeth, bite, and circumstances.
A few things that characterize care at this practice:
Can I eat and drink with aligners in?
Aligners should be removed before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. This protects the trays from staining and helps maintain a proper fit throughout treatment.
Is there discomfort when switching to a new set of trays?
Some pressure or mild soreness in the first day or two after switching to a new set is normal. This typically resolves on its own and indicates the aligners are working as intended.
Is clear aligner treatment right for my case?
Clear aligners are appropriate for a wide range of alignment and bite concerns, but candidacy depends on the specifics of your teeth and bite. Dr. Starling will evaluate your situation and recommend the treatment approach that best fits your needs. You can also read more about how clear aligners compare to traditional braces to help inform your questions before your visit.
How often will I need to come in during treatment?
Check-in appointments are scheduled periodically throughout treatment so Dr. Starling can monitor your progress and confirm your teeth are moving as planned. The frequency will depend on your individual treatment plan.
What should I do if I lose or damage an aligner?
Contact the office as soon as possible. Depending on where you are in your sequence, you may move to the next set of trays or receive a replacement. Prompt communication helps keep your treatment on schedule.
What happens if I'm not wearing my aligners consistently?
Aligners need to be worn as directed to move teeth on the intended timeline. Inconsistent wear can affect your results or extend the length of treatment. If you're having difficulty staying consistent, bring it up at your next appointment so the team can help.
If you've been considering clear aligners and want to understand whether they're the right option for your teeth, a consultation is the place to start. Dr. Starling will review your teeth and bite, answer your questions honestly, and give you a clear picture of what treatment would involve for your specific situation. Our goal is to provide straightforward information so you can make a confident decision.
Starling Orthodontics is located at 1177 Old Hickory Blvd, Suite 201 in Brentwood, TN.
You can request an appointment online or call the office directly at (615) 507-1660. The team looks forward to meeting you.
Please call (615) 507-1660 or click below to schedule your appointment online.
Please call (615) 507-1660 or click below to schedule your complimentary orthodontic consultation online.
