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Clear aligner and Invisalign consultation: what to expect and questions to ask

An empty, calm waiting room at a dental practice

A clear aligner consultation is a visit with a dentist or orthodontist to see whether aligners (such as Invisalign) can move your teeth the way you want, or whether braces or another option would work better. Many offices offer the first visit at a low cost or free; ask when you book.

What usually happens at the visit

  • A talk about what you want to change: crowding, gaps, bite, or how your smile looks.
  • An exam, photos and often a digital scan of your teeth instead of putty impressions.
  • Sometimes X-rays, to check roots, bone and any work that has to happen first, such as fillings or gum care.
  • A plan with an estimated length of treatment, how many aligners, and whether you need small attachments on some teeth.

Questions to ask

  • Is the plan made by an orthodontist or a general dentist, and who checks my progress?
  • Are aligners a good fit for my case, or would braces do a better job?
  • How many hours a day do I need to wear them, and what happens if I do not?
  • How often are check-ups, and what if the teeth do not track with the plan?
  • Are refinements (extra aligners), retainers and whitening included in the price?
  • What does a retainer cost after treatment, and how long do I wear it?
  • Does my insurance cover orthodontics for adults, and is there a payment plan?

Aligners or braces

Aligners are removable and hard to see, but they only work while you wear them. Braces stay on and can handle some movements more easily. Which one fits depends on your teeth, so ask the provider to explain why they suggest one or the other for your case.

What changes the price

The total depends on how complex the movement is, how long treatment lasts, how many refinements are included, retainers, and the office. Ask for the full cost from first scan to final retainer.

What the AAO and ADA say

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) says each aligner is usually worn for about one week, for at least 22 hours a day, and that clear aligners are not right for everyone: the orthodontist decides whether they suit your case. The number of aligners and the treatment time vary with the problem being treated. The American Dental Association (ADA) notes that aligners should be used under the direct supervision of a dentist or orthodontist, so be careful with plans that skip an in-person exam.

For a fuller comparison, see our guide on Invisalign vs braces.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours a day do I wear clear aligners?

The AAO says at least 22 hours a day, with each aligner usually worn for about one week. They come out only to eat, drink anything other than water, and clean your teeth.

Is everyone a candidate for clear aligners?

No. The AAO says clear aligners are not right for everyone. An exam by an orthodontist or dentist decides whether aligners or braces suit your teeth and bite.

Does insurance cover Invisalign?

If your dental plan includes orthodontic coverage, the AAO says it usually covers clear aligners and braces equally. Check the limits of your own plan, especially for adults.

Do I need a retainer after aligners?

Yes. The AAO says everyone should wear a retainer as prescribed after orthodontic treatment, to keep the teeth from moving back.

Sources

Sources checked October 27, 2026.

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General information, not medical advice. Your provider decides what is right for you. Medical review pending: reviewer name and date will appear here.

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