Aligners for Adults
Discreet orthodontic treatment that fits seamlessly into a professional lifestyle.
- Virtually invisible appearance
- No dietary restrictions
- Easy oral hygiene
- Predictable treatment timelines
Straighten your smile discreetly, comfortably, and predictably. Clear aligner therapy uses advanced 3D technology to shift your teeth into perfect alignment without the look or feel of traditional metal braces.
Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, virtually invisible plastic trays that gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. They offer a comfortable, removable alternative to traditional metal braces.
At Carmel Family Dental, we use digital intraoral scanners to map your mouth and plan your entire treatment in 3D. This means no messy putty impressions and a clear preview of your new smile before you even begin.
Here is a simple overview of what to expect.
| Topic | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Straighten teeth and correct bite alignment discreetly |
| Treatment Time | Typically 6-18 months depending on complexity |
| Wear Time | 20-22 hours per day for optimal results |
| Dietary Restrictions | None (aligners are removed for eating) |
| Appointments | Brief check-ins every 6-8 weeks |
| Comfort | Smooth plastic; no sharp wires or brackets |
| Insurance | Many plans include orthodontic benefits |
| Serving | Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville |
Tailored treatments to meet your specific goals.
Discreet orthodontic treatment that fits seamlessly into a professional lifestyle.
A comfortable alternative to braces that builds confidence during the teenage years.
Short-term treatment for adults whose teeth have shifted after previous orthodontic work.
Advanced aligner techniques combined with attachments to correct severe malocclusion.
A consultation helps determine if this is the best path for your goals.
Teeth that overlap or twist because there is not enough room in the jaw.
Noticeable spaces between teeth that can trap food and affect aesthetics.
Overbites, underbites, or crossbites that cause uneven wear or jaw discomfort.
Adults who want to improve their smile without the appearance of metal braces.
Athletes and musicians who find traditional braces interfere with their activities.
Patients who had braces in the past but forgot to wear their retainers.
No pressure and no rushing. We give you the information you need to decide thoughtfully.
We take a fast, comfortable 3D digital scan of your teeth—no messy putty required.
We evaluate your bite, crowding, and overall oral health to ensure aligners are right for you.
We show you a digital simulation of how your teeth will move and what the final result will look like.
We provide an estimate of how many months your specific treatment will take.
We review your orthodontic insurance benefits and discuss flexible payment options.
If you are ready, we submit your scans to the lab to fabricate your custom aligners.
Careful planning follows a predictable, patient-centered sequence.
Your series of custom aligners is 3D-printed based on your precise digital treatment plan.
You receive your first sets of aligners. We may place small, tooth-colored ‘attachments’ to help guide movement.
You wear the aligners 20-22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
You switch to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks as directed, gradually shifting your teeth.
You visit us every 6-8 weeks for a quick check to ensure your teeth are tracking properly.
Once your smile is perfect, we remove any attachments and provide custom retainers to maintain the results.
The right choice depends on your specific needs.
| Feature | Clear Aligners | Traditional Braces | Lingual Braces | Ceramic Braces |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | ✓ Virtually Invisible | Highly Visible | Hidden | Less Visible |
| Removable | ✓ Yes | No | No | No |
| Dietary Limits | ✓ None | Many restrictions | Many restrictions | Many restrictions |
| Comfort | ✓ Smooth plastic | Can irritate cheeks | Can irritate tongue | Can irritate cheeks |
| Brushing/Flossing | ✓ Normal | Requires special tools | Difficult | Requires special tools |
| Office Visits | ✓ Every 6-8 weeks | Every 4 weeks | Every 4 weeks | Every 4 weeks |
Results depend on careful diagnosis, disciplined planning, and a team that respects your goals.
We use advanced intraoral scanners for precise, comfortable impressions without gag-inducing putty.
See your projected final results on a screen before you even commit to treatment.
Your progress is monitored by experienced dentists who ensure your bite and oral health remain optimal.
We offer CareCredit and flexible payment plans to make your new smile affordable.
We coordinate your orthodontic treatment with your routine cleanings and overall dental health.
Patients love the convenience, comfort, and stunning results of our clear aligner therapy.
Our approach is designed around clear information and careful design.
I always wanted straight teeth but refused to get metal braces in my 30s. Clear aligners were the perfect solution. Nobody at work even noticed I was wearing them.
The digital scan was so fast and easy. Seeing the 3D simulation of my future smile is what convinced me to go for it. The results are exactly what was promised.
Dr. Schraeder and the team made the whole process seamless. The appointments were quick, and my teeth look amazing. Best investment I’ve made in myself.
Every treatment plan is developed with attention to health, function, and appearance.
Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
Dr. Stuart focuses on natural-looking cosmetic and restorative care that respects the character of each patient’s smile.
Read Full Bio →
Cosmetic Dentistry & Implants
Dr. Schraeder brings digital planning and detail-oriented craftsmanship to cosmetic treatment conversations and smile design.
Read Full Bio →Clear answers to common questions.
Our team can help you understand how your benefits and treatment options may apply.
We review available benefits before your care begins.
Our treatment coordinators help you understand the clinical sequence and timing.
Carmel Family Dental is conveniently located in Carmel, Indiana, and welcomes patients from throughout the greater Indianapolis area.
Schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation at Carmel Family Dental. We will listen to your goals, review the health of your smile, and explain the appropriate options clearly.
13590 N Meridian St, Suite 200, Carmel, IN 46032 | Serving Indianapolis & Surrounding Areas