Clear Aligners in Auburn

Straightening Teeth with Clear Aligners in Auburn

Clear aligners use a series of transparent trays designed to gradually shift your teeth into better alignment. Each set of aligners is worn for a short period of time before moving to the next in the series.

During your consultation, Dr. Kim Bernales will evaluate your teeth, bite, and overall oral health to determine whether clear aligners may be an appropriate option.

Because treatment is customized for each patient, the process begins with careful planning and a discussion about your goals. Our approach is to provide clear information and realistic expectations so you can make a confident decision.

Our office is located along 8th St NE in Auburn, making it convenient for patients commuting via SR-167 or visiting from nearby communities like Kent or Federal Way.

How Clear Aligners Work

Clear aligners gradually move teeth using gentle, controlled pressure applied over time.

The process typically works like this:

1. Initial consultation: Your teeth and bite are evaluated to determine if aligners are a suitable option.
2. Digital impressions or scans: Detailed images of your teeth are used to design a custom treatment plan.
3. Custom aligner trays are created: Each aligner is designed to move your teeth slightly closer to their final position.
4. Wearing the aligners: Aligners are typically worn 20–22 hours per day and changed every one to two weeks.
5. Progress check visits: Periodic visits allow Dr. Bernales to monitor progress and ensure teeth are moving as expected.

Because aligners are removable, they allow patients to maintain normal brushing and flossing habits during treatment.

What Clear Aligners Can Treat

Clear aligners are commonly used to address mild to moderate orthodontic concerns.

These may include:

• Crowded teeth
• Small gaps between teeth
• Mild bite alignment issues
• Teeth that have shifted over time
• Relapse after previous orthodontic treatment

In some cases, additional restorative treatments such as dental bonding may be used to refine the appearance of teeth after alignment.

If orthodontic correction is not appropriate for your situation, other cosmetic or restorative options may also be discussed.

Benefits of Clear Aligners

Many patients choose clear aligners because they offer several advantages compared to traditional braces.

Benefits include:

• Nearly invisible appearance
• Removable trays for eating and brushing
• Smooth surfaces that reduce irritation to the mouth
• Fewer dietary restrictions
• Convenient orthodontic care for adults and teens

Because aligners are removable, they also allow patients to maintain their routine preventive care, including cleanings and exams.

What to Expect During Treatment

Most patients adapt quickly to wearing clear aligners. You may notice mild pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, which typically indicates the trays are working to move the teeth.

To achieve the best results, patients should:

• Wear aligners 20–22 hours per day
• Remove them only for eating and drinking (except water)
• Brush teeth before reinserting aligners
• Attend scheduled check-in visits

Following these guidelines helps ensure treatment progresses as planned.

A Patient-First Approach to Orthodontic Care

At A2 Dental, orthodontic care is approached the same way as all other treatments — through education, transparency, and evidence-based recommendations.

Some patients come in unsure whether orthodontic treatment is necessary or appropriate for them. Our goal is simply to evaluate your situation and explain your options clearly.

For many adults in Auburn, Kent, and Federal Way, clear aligners offer a way to improve alignment while maintaining a natural-looking smile throughout treatment.

Convenient Orthodontic Care for Auburn and the South End

A2 Dentistry proudly serves patients across the South End, including individuals living in:

• Auburn
• Kent
• Federal Way
• nearby communities within a short drive

Located along the 8th St NE corridor, our office is easy to reach for patients commuting through Auburn or traveling along SR-167. Many patients also visit us from neighborhoods near Green River College.

Whether you are exploring orthodontic treatment or simply maintaining your oral health, our team focuses on providing comfortable and supportive dental care.