What it does well
The aligners are far less visible than traditional braces, and being removable makes it easier to keep up with normal brushing, flossing, and eating without restrictions.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Straighter teeth, without the metal.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gradually move teeth into a straighter position. It's a well-established alternative to traditional braces for many San Ramon patients — though not every case of crowding or spacing is a good match for it.
What it is
A series of trays, each moving teeth a little further.
Instead of fixed brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a sequence of clear plastic aligners, each one shaped slightly differently than the last. Worn in order, each tray nudges the teeth a small amount closer to their planned final position.
The aligners are removable, which means you take them out to eat and to brush and floss normally — but they only work if they're worn consistently in between.
Each aligner in the series is custom-made for a specific stage of the plan.
When it may be appropriate
A good fit for many cases of crowding and spacing.
Invisalign can address mild to moderate crowding, gaps between teeth, and some bite irregularities. Many adults choose it specifically because the aligners are less noticeable day to day than traditional braces.
More complex bite or jaw discrepancies may still call for traditional orthodontics or a referral to a specialist better suited to that particular case. Determining which category your smile falls into requires an actual exam of your teeth and bite.
Why planning matters
Every aligner in the series depends on the plan behind it.
Before starting, the dentist evaluates your gum health, bite, and the specific movements your teeth need to make, since the whole series of aligners is designed around that plan from the outset. Gum disease or untreated decay is typically addressed first — moving teeth around an unhealthy foundation isn't a good idea.
If your case calls for a different approach, we'll say so rather than start a plan that isn't likely to reach the result you want.
Benefits and trade-offs
Discreet and removable, which is also the responsibility.
What to weigh
Because the aligners are removable, results depend on wearing them as directed. Inconsistent wear slows progress and can affect the final outcome.
What patients can expect
A digital plan you can see in advance.
Treatment begins with a digital scan of your teeth, which is used to map out the planned movement stage by stage. From there, you'll progress through a series of aligners, with periodic check-in visits so we can confirm treatment is on track and make adjustments if needed.
Long-term considerations
Teeth can shift back without retention.
Once your teeth reach their planned position, wearing a retainer as directed is what keeps them there — teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their original position without one. Keeping up with regular cleanings and checkups afterward is also important, since straighter teeth are generally easier to keep clean.
Curious if Invisalign fits your smile? Let's find out.
A consultation is a conversation, not a commitment. We'll tell you honestly whether it's the right fit.