Clear aligners straighten teeth with a series of nearly invisible trays that you change every one to two weeks. Happy Light Dental is an Invisalign Silver Provider. Treatment starts with a digital scan from our iTero scanner, so there are no impressions, and you see a preview of the planned result before you commit. Teens and adults are welcome. We speak English, Spanish and Korean.
How clear aligners work
Each aligner is made from a digital model of your teeth and moves them a fraction of a millimeter. Worn in sequence, 20 to 22 hours a day and removed only to eat and brush, the series moves teeth to the planned position. Small tooth-colored attachments are sometimes bonded to a few teeth to help the trays grip.
Aligners handle crowding, spacing, mild to moderate bite problems and relapse after old braces. Some complex cases still do better with braces, and Dr. Kim tells you which is right for you at the consultation.
What to expect
From the first scan to retainers, this is the path.
1. Scan and preview
A few minutes with the iTero scanner replaces impressions. The software shows a simulation of your planned result and Dr. Kim designs the tooth movements.
2. Your aligner series
Your custom aligners arrive and we fit the first set, place any attachments and show you how to wear and clean them.
3. Check-ins and retainers
Short visits every six to ten weeks keep treatment on track. When the teeth are where we planned, retainers keep them there.
Teeth feel tight for a day or two with each new tray; that is them moving. Most patients are finished in six to eighteen months, and wearing the retainer as instructed is what makes the result permanent.
Cost and insurance
Many PPO plans include an orthodontic benefit, often a lifetime maximum that applies to aligners as well as braces; we check yours before the consultation. Denti-Cal (Medi-Cal Dental) covers orthodontic treatment only in limited cases for children and teens who qualify. The fee depends on the complexity and length of treatment, and you receive it in writing with your insurance applied.
Monthly payment plans are available through CareCredit, Cherry and Sunbit, subject to credit approval. We give you a written estimate before any treatment.
Dr. Kim's approach
Dr. Kim treats aligner cases the way an orthodontic case should be treated: a full exam and X-rays first, a plan that corrects the bite rather than just the front teeth, and honest advice when braces would do a better job.
Teens are welcome. Aligners work well when they are worn, so we talk about habits before we start.
Why Happy Light Dental for clear aligners
Invisalign Silver Provider
Recognized provider status with experience in a range of cases.
iTero scanner
Fast digital scans, a preview of your result, and no impression trays.
Insurance and financing
PPO orthodontic benefits applied; CareCredit, Cherry and Sunbit plans available.
Your language
We speak English, Spanish and Korean.
Clear aligner questions
Ready to talk about clear aligners?
Call (310) 644-4648 or book online. Se habla español · 한국어 진료 가능.