Clear aligners are removable trays, custom-made from a digital scan, that move teeth a little at a time. We offer Invisalign and Angel Aligners, and consultations are free. For the right case they are nearly invisible and far easier to clean around than fixed braces. For other cases, braces still do the job better — and an evaluation is the only way to know which applies to your child.
Clear aligners are removable trays custom-made from a digital scan. Each tray is shaped slightly differently from the last, applying light steady pressure so teeth move gradually. They must be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, coming out only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing.
A series of thin, clear plastic trays worn over the teeth. Each tray is shaped very slightly differently from the last.
Thin and clear, so most people do not notice them at conversational distance. Attachments — small tooth-coloured bumps — are sometimes needed and are slightly visible up close.
A digital scan replaces the old putty impressions. The whole sequence of movements is mapped before the first tray is made.
They come out for meals and brushing, which makes cleaning far easier than with braces. It also means they only work when your child actually wears them.
Where teeth overlap a little and there is room to work with, aligners handle it well. Severe crowding, or cases needing teeth removed to create space, usually calls for fixed braces.
Closing small gaps is one of the things aligners do most predictably.
Certain mild bite issues respond well. Significant jaw discrepancies, deep bites, and complex rotations generally need braces, sometimes with additional appliances.
This is the real deciding factor. Aligners work at 20 to 22 hours a day. A teen who is motivated does very well; one who forgets will simply not progress.
Aligners need a fairly settled set of teeth to plan against. Younger children still losing baby teeth are usually better served by early orthodontic evaluation first.
Neither is better in the abstract. They suit different mouths and different children.
| Clear aligners | Traditional braces | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear trays, barely noticeable | Visible brackets, though ceramic options are less so |
| On or off | Removable for meals and cleaning | Fixed in place for the whole treatment |
| Cleaning | Brush and floss normally with trays out | Extra effort around brackets and wires |
| Comfort | Smooth plastic, pressure after each new tray | Occasional poking wires or loose brackets |
| Depends on the child | Only works if worn 20 to 22 hours daily | Works whether or not your child remembers |
| Case complexity | Many mild to moderate cases | Handles the full range, including complex cases |
| Food | No restrictions, trays come out | Hard and sticky foods restricted throughout |
The right choice depends on your child’s age, how much movement is needed, their oral health, and honestly — how likely they are to keep the trays in. Braces are not a lesser option; for many children they are the more reliable one. A consultation is where that gets decided, not a website.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Joshua Kohan, DMD — Say Cheese Kids Dental & Orthodontics, Chino, CA. Orthodontic treatment is provided in coordination with our partner orthodontists.
Last reviewed: 5 August 2026. This page is for general information and is not a substitute for an in-person orthodontic evaluation.
What a GREAT OFFICE ! The whole team is so welcoming and really makes you feel at ease ! My son was so so anxious about his visit and first time getting cavities filled and they really took their time and made him feel like he was safe and in such good hands. I really really appreciated it as a mom the extra attention to detail and attention to my son’s feelings. We will most definitely be coming back for future care and a huge thank you again to the team !
MARTA OLCZYKI brought my kids in to Say Cheese Dental today after moving from Orange County && they immediately eased my nerves. The staff was so nice and made my children very comfortable. We’re looking forward to coming back ❤️
Gy'Kia WillsAwesome service super friendly
David SanchezThis was our first visit, and we had a great experience. Everyone was very patient, friendly, and helpful. The staff made my kids feel comfortable and well cared for. We really appreciate their kindness and professionalism.
Wendy WThe girls on the office were really sweet and kind with my daughter. The patience and professionalism was very exceptional. They explained everything very well and straight forward. I’ve been to other offices and was not treated the way I was treated today. The staff was very welcoming and attentive
Adriana CervantesGreat experience at this dental office. Everyone was kind and welcoming, from the front desk to the X-ray technician and the doctor. The dentist was very thorough. He took the time to explain everything clearly, and made sure I understood the treatment and options. You can really tell they care about their patients and want you to feel comfortable. I highly recommend them.
Iris AvalosI must say this play is Wonderfully very charming and kids friendly. They have a wonderful and knowledgeable Doctor, and their staff are professional. My daughter has alot of crowding, and in between baby and mature teeth phase and needs a braces, everyone was non judgemental about her teeth and treated her and myself with kindness. And after all that they have a prize for the kids. Definitely recommended this dentist office.
Richelle TDr. Kohan was super helpful, transparent and professional. The office is very nice and super kid friendly. Staff was attentive and kind. My girls felt very comfortable with the consultation and cleaning.
Griselda AguirreExcelente Servicio Fueron súper amables y comprensivos y eso hizo que mi hijo se sintiera seguro… Lo recomiendo 10/10
Brenda Orellana
UCLA-trained, with over five years of experience caring for children’s smiles in Chino.
Consultations are free. We will cover what movement your child’s teeth actually need, whether Invisalign or Angel Aligners can deliver it, and what braces would offer instead. Families come to us from Chino, Chino Hills, Eastvale, and Ontario.
