Hi, I'm Dr. Robair Aldaya. I've been an Invisalign provider in San Diego since 2018. Adults and teens ask me every day if clear aligners are worth it, how long treatment takes, and whether they can skip metal braces. Here is how I explain it in the chair.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic trays that snap over your teeth. Each tray is slightly different. You wear a set about two weeks, then switch to the next. Little by little your teeth move. Most people cannot tell you are in treatment unless you tell them.
I plan your case with digital scans at Million Dollar Smile in Clairemont. You see a preview of the planned smile before you commit. That matters when you are investing months of your time.
Who does well with aligners?
- Crowding or small gaps you want fixed without brackets.
- Adults who do not want a “metal mouth” at work or on camera.
- Teens who will wear trays 20 to 22 hours a day (discipline matters).
- Mild to moderate bite issues. Severe cases may still need braces or a combo plan.
I will be honest if aligners are not the best tool for your bite. Sometimes braces or a short phase of braces plus aligners works better. I would rather set the right plan than sell the trendy option.
How long and how much?
Many cases run 12 to 18 months, but simple crowding can be shorter. Complex bites can take longer. Cost depends on how many trays you need. We offer financing and new patients can get a free consultation. If you start treatment the same day as your consult, we apply $500 off. Ask my front desk for current details when you call.
See our Invisalign page for offers and booking →
Daily life with trays
You remove aligners to eat and drink anything besides water. Brush before you put them back in. Floss matters too. You keep your normal diet. Just no chewing gum with trays in. Most patients adapt in about a week.
You visit us every six to ten weeks so I can check progress and give you the next sets. Missed wear time slows everything down. I tell patients: the trays only work when they are on your teeth.
Smile changes we have documented
Not every case below is Invisalign-only; some patients combined aligners with whitening or veneers. Drag the slider to compare. Results vary.
Case 1 - Veneers & whitening
Case 2 - Smile makeover
What patients say
From Google reviews. Wording is theirs.
“Highly recommended dentist based on my experience here. Helped me find the confidence in my smile again. Love the staff as well!”
“The nurses were fantastic, specifically Tala — loved her & she made the whole process feel easy & comfortable! Highly recommend.”
Before you start
- Bring questions about wear time and your schedule (travel, weddings, sports).
- Ask how retainers work after treatment. Teeth can shift back if you skip retainers.
- Compare aligners to braces for your case, not just for looks.
- Use your benefits before year-end if you have dental insurance that applies.
Want a consult?
Call (858) 412-5777 or book online. We will scan, show you the plan, and you decide with no pressure.
Dr. Robair Aldaya, DDS · Million Dollar Smile · Clairemont, San Diego