Who’s a Good Candidate for Clear Aligners? An Orthodontist Explains

Clear aligners have become one of the most popular ways to straighten teeth — but they’re not the right choice for everyone. As a board-certified orthodontist, I often get asked what makes someone a good candidate, and how dental providers evaluate whether aligners will be safe and effective for their smile.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I a candidate for clear aligners?” — here’s what licensed providers are trained to look for during that process.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for Clear Aligners?

The best candidates for clear aligners typically have:

• Mild to moderate crowding or spacing

• Minor bite issues (like slight overbite or crossbite)

• Fully developed adult teeth and jaw

• Healthy gums and strong oral hygiene

• Commitment to wearing aligners consistently

At Motto, your candidacy is determined by a licensed dental provider through a comprehensive in-person exam — including a 3D scan, X-rays, and full dental evaluation. It’s a level of care you won’t get from at-home kits.

Not sure where to start? Take our short quiz to learn if clear aligners might be a fit — then follow up with a provider for expert guidance.

What Dental Providers Evaluate — With Support From Experts

Licensed providers at Motto are trained to assess not just your teeth, but your full oral health before recommending aligners. That includes:

• Tooth movement potential


  • Can your teeth safely shift into alignment using clear trays?

• Bite alignment and function


  • Will aligners correct your bite in a stable, healthy way?

• Gum and bone health

  • 
Are your tissues healthy enough to support orthodontic movement?

• Patient lifestyle and goals

  
  

Aligners only work if worn as prescribed. Your provider will ensure this treatment fits your habits and expectations.

As Director of Orthodontic Support, I help train and support Motto providers in delivering care that reflects these high clinical standards — so every treatment plan is designed with long-term health in mind.

See how Motto works with doctor-directed care from day one

When Clear Aligners Might Not Be the Best Fit

There are some situations where aligners may not be the most effective option:

• Severe crowding or bite misalignment

• Jaw growth issues or skeletal concerns

• Cases requiring surgical intervention or extractions

• Uncontrolled gum disease or poor oral hygiene (like gingivitis or periodontitis)

• Bone loss that compromises tooth stability

• Manual dexterity limitations that make inserting or removing aligners difficult

• Poor compliance history with previous dental care or treatment plans
  
  

That’s why in-person evaluation is so important. At Motto, aligners are never prescribed until a licensed provider has confirmed you’re a good fit — and if not, they'll guide you to the right next step.

Why Doctor Oversight Matters

As an orthodontist, I’ve seen the difference that provider-led treatment makes — and why it’s so important not to rely on at-home kits or algorithms alone.

Even if a case seems “easy,” aligners only work when:

• There’s a sound clinical plan

• Progress is tracked and adjusted

• A trained provider is available to support you

• Overall dental health is monitored on a regular basis
  
  
  

With Motto, that level of oversight is built into every step. You’re not doing this alone — and that makes a big difference in your results. 

Meet the providers who make Motto doctor-directed

Why Not All Aligner Plans Are Created Equal

With so many clear aligner brands on the market, it can be tempting to choose the fastest or cheapest option — especially with at-home kits that don’t require an office visit. But here’s what most patients don’t realize:

Without a proper in-person evaluation, there’s no way to fully assess:

• Bone loss or gum disease

• Jaw function or bite alignment

• Other restorative needs prior to tooth movement 

• Whether your teeth can move safely with aligners
  
  

As an orthodontist, I’ve seen patients come in with damage caused by mail-order aligners — sometimes after paying thousands out of pocket. That’s why clinical oversight isn’t optional — it’s essential.

At Motto, your plan is created and monitored by a licensed dental provider, with built-in check-ins and real-time support throughout your journey. You don’t have to choose between convenience and clinical care — Motto gives you both.

Explore more about how Motto Clear Aligners work and what makes our doctor-led approach different.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Streem

If you’re wondering whether clear aligners are right for you, the best thing you can do is talk to a qualified provider — not guess. Every smile is unique, and every treatment plan should be too.

Motto makes that easy: doctor-directed care, a personalized plan, and real clinical support from day one.

Ready to find out if you’re a candidate? Book your free consultation today