Treatment
Clear aligners
Clear aligners are a series of removable trays, each one moving your teeth a small step. Ours are made in the next room from your own scan. They work only when they're worn, usually most of the day, and they don't suit every bite. Dr. Bhargava tells you honestly which one yours is.
Removable trays
Made in our own lab
Worn most of the day
What happens
Aligners ask more of you than braces do, because you decide how many hours they're worn.
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Step 1: Exam and scan
Dr. Bhargava examines you and scans your teeth with a handheld scanner. She tells you whether aligners can do what your bite needs.
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Step 2: Your first trays
Clyde makes the first set from the plan. At the fitting Dr. Bhargava checks the fit, may add small tooth-colored bumps that help the trays grip, and shows you how to wear and clean them.
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Step 3: A new tray every so often
You change trays on the schedule she gives you and come in for checks. If a tray stops fitting, call us and Clyde can make another.
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Step 4: Refinements and retainers
Teeth don't always follow the plan, so a refinement set is common. When the bite is ready, retainers hold it.
Before you decide
Comfort
Teeth feel pressure for a day or two with each new tray. Removing them to eat helps with comfort, and cold water or soft food helps when teeth are tender. Tell us if a tray rubs and we'll smooth it.
If you wait
If your bite is likely to keep shifting, a plan on paper helps you decide when to start. You can ask for it in writing and think it over.
Risks and after-care
Trays don't work if they aren't worn. Plaque can build under them if teeth aren't brushed first. Some patients need braces for part of treatment. Teeth drift back without retainers.
How it's billed
You get a written estimate before treatment starts. It lists what is included and what isn't, and how your plan's orthodontic benefit may apply. We never quote a fee over email or in a form.
How fees work
Who provides this care
Treatment is planned and checked by Dr. Jyoti Bhargava, an orthodontist. Clyde Burton makes the parts in our lab.
License
Dentist license (DMD or DDS)
AL License no. 000000 · Alabama Board of Dental Examiners
This license allows Dr. Bhargava to practice dentistry in Alabama. The owner enters the real number.
Specialty training
Residency in orthodontics
The owner names the program and year.
American Board of Orthodontics
The owner confirms board status here, or removes this line.
Questions about clear aligners
How many hours a day do I wear them?
Dr. Bhargava gives you a number at your fitting. Most plans ask for most of the day, off only to eat and clean.
Are aligners for everyone?
No. Some bites need braces, and Dr. Bhargava will say so after the exam. She won't start with aligners if she doesn't think they'll do the job.
Can I take them out for a photo or a meeting?
A short time, yes. It adds up, so we talk about how to plan it.
What if I lose a tray?
Call the office the same day. Clyde can often reprint it from your scan.
Find out if aligners fit your bite
The first visit covers the exam, the scan and a plan that names who makes each part.