What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear aligner trays to gently guide teeth into their ideal positions over time. Each set of trays is worn for about a week before progressing to the next, moving teeth gradually and precisely toward the final result. Because the full treatment plan is designed digitally before the first aligner is ever worn, you can see where your smile is headed before treatment even begins.
Aligners are nearly invisible, removable for eating and brushing, and free of brackets or wires. Progress can be monitored remotely through an app, reducing the number of in-office visits and making treatment easier to fit into a busy life.
Why Marin Ortho for Invisalign?
The doctors at Marin Ortho were among just 54 orthodontic offices worldwide invited to help develop the clinical protocol for using Invisalign clear aligners for expansion in young patients. That expertise shapes every treatment plan we create, across every age group. We know what works, we know how to get results efficiently, and we bring that knowledge to every patient who walks through our doors, whether they are 7 or 70.
Families from across the San Francisco Bay Area, including San Francisco, Marin County, Tiburon, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Novato, and the East Bay, trust Marin Ortho for Invisalign because of our depth of experience, our personalized approach, and our commitment to results that last.
Invisalign for Every Stage of Life
For Children · Ages 7 through 10
Early treatment with Invisalign can guide jaw development, create space for incoming permanent teeth, and correct bite concerns before they become more complex. Most of our Phase 1 Invisalign patients complete treatment in about 6 months. Children who complete Phase 1 will plan on Phase 2 treatment with Invisalign Teen or braces once all permanent teeth have come in, typically around age 12 to 13. Phase 1 lays the foundation. Phase 2 finishes the smile.
For Teens · Ages 12 and up
Invisalign Teen is designed for patients whose permanent teeth have fully come in. It addresses everything from mild crowding and spacing to more complex bite issues, and can be used alongside palatal expansion for teens who need both. Compliance indicators built into each aligner make it easy to confirm aligners are being worn as recommended. Most teen patients complete treatment within 12 to 18 months.
For Adults
It is never too late to improve your smile, and Invisalign makes it easier than ever to do so discreetly. For adults with arch width concerns, Invisalign can be used alongside our MARPE appliance for patients who also need palatal expansion. Most adult patients complete treatment within 12 to 24 months, though timelines vary based on the complexity of each case.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign offers meaningful advantages for patients of every age:
- Nearly invisible, so most people will never notice them
- Removable for eating, brushing, sports, and special occasions
- Smooth and free of brackets, wires, or sharp edges for greater comfort
- Each tooth moves individually and precisely for efficient, accurate results
- Fewer office visits with remote monitoring available through an app
- Can be used alongside palatal expanders and other appliances when needed
- Switching to braces is free of charge in the rare case it becomes necessary
What Can Invisalign Treat?
Invisalign is effective for a wide range of orthodontic concerns across all age groups:
- Crowding
- Spacing and gaps
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Arch width concerns, in combination with expansion appliances
Dr. Gorton will evaluate your specific anatomy and goals at your consultation and let you know whether Invisalign is the right fit, and what your treatment plan would look like.
How Do I Know Invisalign Is Right for Me?
Invisalign is an excellent option for a wide range of patients. If you fall into any of the categories below, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary consultation so we can evaluate your specific needs.
- Children ages 7 through 10 with crowding, bite concerns, or expansion needs
- Teens with permanent teeth fully in who want a discreet and flexible treatment option
- Adults who want to straighten their teeth without metal brackets or wires
- Patients who value fewer office visits and the convenience of remote monitoring
- Anyone who also needs palatal expansion and wants a combined aligner approach
- Patients across the Bay Area looking for an experienced, trusted Invisalign provider
