About AlignLoom

Our mission

Orthodontic care can feel confusing, especially if you are comparing options in a new city, using insurance for the first time, or speaking English as a second language. AlignLoom exists to make the first steps simpler.

We help people understand the basics of metal braces, ceramic braces, clear aligners, and retainers in plain language. Then, if you want, we help you get matched with licensed orthodontists in your area through our free get matched service.

What we are not:
- We are not a dentist, orthodontist, clinic, or healthcare provider.
- We do not diagnose, examine, treat, or recommend a treatment plan.
- We do not take scans, X-rays, impressions, or health records.
- We do not give medical or dental advice.

Our information is general and educational. Only a licensed orthodontist can tell you what may be appropriate after an in-person exam.

Who we are here for

We built AlignLoom for real households making real decisions.

This includes:
- Parents comparing treatment for a child or teenager
- Adults thinking about orthodontic treatment for the first time
- People moving to the US or learning how the US dental system works
- Non-native-English speakers who want simpler explanations
- Busy families who want a shorter list of local orthodontists to review

Some people come to us because they want a quick overview of treatments. Others already know they want to compare metal braces and clear aligners and just need help finding local providers.

We try to make this process easier to act on:
1. Learn the basic differences between options.
2. Understand typical price ranges and how insurance may work.
3. Get matched with licensed orthodontists near you.
4. Choose who you want to contact and what consultation to book.

You stay in control the whole time. You choose who to see. You ask questions. You confirm the plan and price in writing before starting.

How our free matching works

If you use AlignLoom, the process is simple.

1. You share basic contact details and what you are looking for.
2. We use that information to help connect you with licensed orthodontists near you.
3. You decide whether to contact them, schedule a consultation, or keep comparing.

We do not ask for medical history or health records through the lead form. We only need contact details and basic intent so we can make a helpful match.

When you meet an orthodontist, that office can explain:
- Whether they believe braces or clear aligners may fit your case
- Their timeline estimates
- Their office policies
- Their payment options
- Their final treatment recommendation after an exam

If you are still comparing options, our general guides on braces vs. clear aligners and how to choose an orthodontist can help you prepare questions. This is still not medical advice. It is planning information to help you make a better decision.

How AlignLoom is paid

AlignLoom is free for families and adults using the service.

Participating orthodontists pay us a flat fee to be part of the matching service. That means you do not pay AlignLoom to learn, compare, or get matched.

A few important points:
- We do not promise that one office is the right fit for every person.
- We do not set the orthodontist's treatment plan.
- We do not set the final price you may be offered.
- We do not guarantee results, speed, or outcomes.

The real cost of treatment depends on the case, the area, and the patient's insurance. Typical US ranges are often:
- Metal braces: $3,000-$7,000
- Ceramic braces: $4,000-$8,000
- Clear aligners: $3,000-$8,000
- Retainers: $100-$500 per set

Many dental plans that include orthodontic benefits have a lifetime orthodontic maximum, often around $1,000-$3,000. That is why it helps to review costs and learn the basics of orthodontic insurance before you commit.

Always ask for the proposed plan, total cost, insurance estimate, and payment terms in writing before treatment starts.

What we want you to do before you choose an orthodontist

We want families to feel informed, not rushed.

Before you move forward, take these steps:
- Verify the orthodontist's license yourself through your state's licensing resources.
- Confirm whether the provider is an orthodontist, not just a general dental office offering limited orthodontic services.
- Ask what is included in the quoted treatment fee and what may cost extra.
- Ask how repairs, missed visits, replacement retainers, and follow-up care are handled.
- Read the office policies before signing anything.

A good match is not only about price. It is also about communication, convenience, language support, office hours, and whether you feel comfortable asking questions.

Our role is to help you start with clearer information and a more manageable list of local options. Your role is to compare carefully and choose the provider you trust.