They’re clear. They’re smooth. They snap onto your teeth and somehow, almost magically, start shifting your smile.
But this isn’t magic. It’s precision engineering. And at OrthoFX, we’ve turned that science into something people actually want to wear.
We’re talking aligners you can take off for physical activities, wear to meetings, and still feel like yourself in photos. Ones designed to fit real life, not disrupt it. And behind every tray is a plan: a tooth-by-tooth strategy powered by tech, monitored by doctors, and built for real results.
So if you're curious how do clear aligners work, you're about to find out.
The Basics: How Do Aligners Actually Move Teeth?
Clear aligners work by applying gentle, targeted pressure on your teeth to gradually guide them into their desired position. Each set of aligners is part of a larger treatment plan and is worn for about one to two weeks before switching to the next.
That pressure? It’s not random. It’s carefully planned using a digital model of your teeth. Your provider maps out the step-by-step movement of each tooth, and every new aligner takes you closer to your ideal smile.
With OrthoFX, our aligners, whether it's FXClear™, AirFlex™, or FXBright, are engineered with proprietary materials that work with natural tooth movements to deliver predictable results. In simple terms, they’re built to move your teeth efficiently without sacrificing comfort.
What Are They Made Of?
Unlike traditional braces, aligners are made of BPA-free plastic, flexible, safe, and custom-fitted to your smile.
Each aligner is trimmed to fit comfortably along your gumline and designed to be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day, only taken out when you eat, drink (anything but water), or brush and floss.
At OrthoFX, we use proprietary materials to create three distinct aligner options, unlike other brands that rely on generic, off-the-shelf plastics.
- FXClear™ – Our original aligner, designed for effective movement with a soft, smooth feel.
- AirFlex™ – FDA-approved and engineered for flexibility and lower wear-time (at least 12 hours/day) without compromising results.
- FXBright – Combines clarity, durability, and comfort into a discreet aligner that’s barely visible.
Each one is tailored to different lifestyles and needs, but all are built around our core belief: orthodontic treatment should never get in the way of living your life.
From Gaps to Crowding: What Can Aligners Fix?
Clear aligners aren’t just for mild tweaks; they can address a wide range of issues, including:
- Do aligners work for gaps? Yes, absolutely
- Do aligners work for crowded teeth? They do.
- Do teeth aligners work on overbites? Yes, they do.
And that’s not all. Clear aligners can also help with:
- Underbites and crossbites
- Rotated or misaligned teeth
- General bite discomfort and mild jaw alignment issues
The key is personalization. At OrthoFX, your treatment starts with a digital scan that captures a precise 3D model of your teeth. From there, we work with your doctor to develop a plan that fits your goals, biology, and lifestyle, not just a generic timeline.
A Day in the Life: What to Expect
Here’s what aligner life typically looks like:
- Wear your aligners for the recommended hours
- Switch to the next set every 1–2 weeks, depending on your provider's guidance.
- Brush and floss regularly to keep your aligners and teeth clean.
- Use FXOnTrack™, our virtual monitoring system, to stay on track without needing constant in-person visits.
At OrthoFX, we believe staying consistent shouldn’t feel like a full-time job. That’s why our systems are built for real life, with digital check-ins, treatment tracking, and expert support when you need it.
The Not-So-Glam Side: Are There Any Downsides?
Let’s be honest, no treatment is perfect for everyone. Here are a few common challenges of clear aligners:
- You need to wear your aligners continuously for the recommended number of hours each day. Not following the prescribed wear-time can delay progress and extend your overall treatment.
- You’ll need to remove them to eat or drink. That means a little extra effort at meals.
- They may not be ideal for severe bite issues. Some complex cases still need traditional braces.
But here's the thing: these aren’t deal-breakers. At OrthoFX, we work closely with providers to help patients know upfront what aligners can and can’t do, so you’re never left guessing.
How Much Do Clear Aligners Cost?
Clear aligner costs vary depending on case complexity, location, and provider. On average, expect a range of $3,000 to $7,000 in the U.S. This is broadly comparable to braces, as many orthodontists quote similar pricing for metal or ceramic braces. Actual cost will depend on your provider and treatment plan.*
At OrthoFX, we make this simpler with FXPay™, our built-in, 0% interest financing program. No third-party lenders. No paperwork hassles. Just a clear path to a straighter smile.**
Plus, our treatment includes everything – your aligners, remote check-ins, replacements if needed, and access to our support team throughout your journey.
OrthoFX Wisdom: It's Not Just About Looks
Aligners aren’t just about getting straighter teeth, they can help improve your oral hygiene, reduce the risk of tooth wear, and even address mild bite issues that might be causing discomfort.
The right aligner doesn’t just move teeth. It fits your life.
At OrthoFX, we’ve seen teens heading off to college, busy professionals, and parents juggling school pickups, all successfully complete treatment without pausing their routines. That’s the real goal: a solution that doesn’t feel like an inconvenience. Explore more about our aligners and treatment options.
Footnotes:
**Subject to credit approval. Minimum monthly payments are required during the promotional period. Making minimum monthly payments during the promotional period will not pay off the entire principal balance. Interest is billed during the promotional period, but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid in full before the expiration of the promotional period.
