Crowded or gapped front teeth are one of the most common things patients ask us to fix, and most adults do not want a mouth full of metal to do it. We offer two systems in our Glendale office. Which one fits depends on what needs to move, how fast you want it done and your age.
Both are planned by Dr. Singh, and both are fitted and monitored here, so you are not bouncing between a dentist and a separate orthodontist. Our gallery includes a case where lower-teeth crowding was corrected in less than six months.
Six Month Smiles
Six Month Smiles concentrates on the teeth that show when you smile, which is why it is faster than full orthodontics. You can choose clear aligners made from Zendura FLX, a clear, flexible material scalloped at the gum line for comfort, or clear ceramic braces with tooth-colored brackets and wires. It is designed for adults and older teens, ages 16 and up.
- Treatment takes around six months
- Aligners are made in about four weeks
- Wear aligners 20–22 hours a day
- Small tooth-colored attachments may be bonded to hold aligners
- No regular wire-tightening appointments with aligners
Invisalign
Invisalign uses a series of clear, BPA-free plastic trays made from a 3-D scan of your mouth. Each tray moves teeth a little further, and you switch to the next one on schedule. We see you roughly every six to eight weeks to check progress and hand over new trays. Mild to moderate crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites and open bites can all be treated.
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
- Worn 20–22 hours a day
- Most cases finish in 6 to 18 months
- No food restrictions
Invisalign for Teens
Teens get the same clear trays with a blue compliance indicator that fades with wear, so parents can see the trays are actually in. Aligners work with a standard sports mouthguard and there are no brackets to cut a lip during contact sports. The main risk is forgetting to put them back in after lunch, which slows progress.
Which One Is Right for You
If you are 16 or older and your concern is mainly the front teeth, Six Month Smiles is usually the quicker route. If the bite needs correcting or the whole arch needs to move, Invisalign gives us more control. A consultation with photos and X-rays tells us which applies to you.
What to Expect
- 1Consultation
Exam, photos and X-rays. We tell you which system suits your teeth and how long it should take.
- 2Scan or impressions
A digital scan or mold goes to the lab with Dr. Singh's instructions.
- 3Fitting
Aligners are checked for fit, or clear brackets are bonded. Any attachments are placed.
- 4Progress checks
Short visits to confirm teeth are moving as planned and give you the next trays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat with aligners in?
No. Take them out to eat and drink anything other than plain water, then brush before putting them back. Clear braces stay on, so you avoid sticky and very hard foods.
Are clear braces noticeable?
Much less than metal. The brackets are translucent and the wires are tooth-colored, so most people will not notice at talking distance. Close-up photos in bright light may show them slightly.
Do clear brackets stain?
They are made to resist staining, but good brushing and limiting coffee, tea and red wine still matter while you are in treatment.
Does Six Month Smiles really take only six months?
Around six months is typical because it focuses on the front teeth rather than the whole bite. Aligners take about four weeks to make after your scan, so plan for that before treatment starts.
Will aligners affect my speech?
Some patients have a slight lisp for the first few days while the tongue adjusts. It goes away with wear.
What does Invisalign cost?
It depends on how many trays your case needs. We give you the full price at the end of your consultation, and CareCredit, Cherry and LendingClub can spread the cost over monthly payments.
Straighter teeth without the metal
Call (623) 400-6009 or book online for an aligner consultation.
