COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Orthodontics & Clear Aligner Therapy
Misaligned teeth affect more than aesthetics — they influence bite mechanics, joint health, and how the dentition wears over time. Dr. Martin approaches orthodontic treatment as a functional decision as much as a cosmetic one, using digital planning tools to map the full tooth movement sequence before the first tray is placed and to help patients understand the projected outcome before committing.
Clear aligner therapy works through a series of custom-fabricated removable trays, each advancing tooth position incrementally toward the planned final result. For most adults with mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite concerns, aligners are effective — producing results comparable to fixed appliances with the added benefit of being removable and essentially invisible. Compliance matters: aligners need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day to move teeth on schedule, and inconsistent wear produces slower, less predictable results. Treatment timelines range from a few months for minor corrections to one to two years for more involved cases. Retainer wear after treatment is non-negotiable for keeping teeth where they landed.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
Not at all — adult orthodontic treatment is increasingly common, and the clinical outcomes are comparable to those achieved in younger patients in most cases. Teeth can be moved effectively at any age provided the bone and gum tissue are healthy. Adults sometimes require longer treatment times because bone density increases with age, but this is a timeline consideration rather than a barrier to treatment. At our practice, we evaluate orthodontic candidacy based on oral health rather than age — and for many adult patients, aligner therapy is not only effective but fits their lifestyle far better than traditional fixed appliances would.
How do clear aligners work, and are they as effective as braces?
Clear aligners use a series of custom-fabricated, removable trays — each slightly different from the last — to move teeth incrementally toward the planned final position. Treatment is planned digitally, which allows us to map the full tooth movement sequence before the first tray is placed. For most adults with mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues, aligners are highly effective — in many cases producing equivalent outcomes to fixed braces with the added benefit of being removable and virtually invisible. At our practice, we use digital planning tools to design the treatment and help patients visualize the projected outcome before committing. Complex cases — particularly those involving significant bite correction or severe crowding — may be better addressed with fixed appliances or in conjunction with other interventions.
How long does aligner treatment take, and how often do I need to wear them?
Treatment duration varies significantly based on the complexity of the case — minor corrections may be achievable in a few months, while more involved tooth movement can take twelve to twenty-four months. Aligners need to be worn 20 to 22 hours per day to move teeth on schedule — patients who wear them inconsistently experience slower progress and less predictable outcomes. At our practice, we discuss realistic treatment timelines honestly at the planning stage and factor compliance expectations into the conversation. Aligner therapy works best for patients who are genuinely committed to the wear schedule — it's a partnership between the technology and the patient's discipline.
Will my teeth stay straight after treatment ends?
Teeth have a natural tendency to shift after orthodontic treatment — it's a biological reality, not a treatment failure. Retainer wear after completing aligner therapy is non-negotiable for maintaining results. Most patients wear retainers nightly long-term, which is a small commitment relative to the investment of completing treatment. At our practice, we provide retainers at the conclusion of treatment and discuss long-term retention expectations clearly — because we see far too many patients who completed orthodontic work years ago and didn't wear their retainers consistently, and are now dealing with shifting that could have been easily prevented.
Begin with a
comprehensive evaluation.
Every patient relationship begins with a thorough assessment and an open conversation. We take the time to understand your history, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. Complete the form below and one of our team members will reach out to you soon.
Before
and after.
Explore real patient transformations made possible through Dr. Gregory Martin’s comprehensive, all-in-one approach to care. Results vary by individual. These images are provided for educational purposes and do not guarantee specific outcomes.