How does clear aligner treatment work?
Who are clear aligners for, how many hours a day must they be worn and how many months does it take? What to know before you start.
Clear aligners are custom-made transparent trays that move the teeth step by step. With no metal brackets or wires, they are almost unnoticeable when you talk and smile.
Advantages
- Appearance: Comfortable in social and working life.
- Removable: Out for eating and brushing, so oral hygiene is easy.
- Comfort: No wire irritation on the cheeks and lips.
- Predictable: The end result is shown on screen before you start.
The process
- Examination: Suitability is assessed; gum problems and decay are treated first.
- Digital scan: A 3D record of the teeth without impression material.
- Simulation: Tooth movement is planned step by step and the number of aligners set.
- Wear: Each aligner is worn for 1–2 weeks, with a check-up every 6–8 weeks.
- Retention: A night retainer keeps the teeth in place afterwards.
The key to success: wear time
Aligners must be worn at least 20–22 hours a day. Take them out only to eat and brush, and drink nothing but water while wearing them.
Is it for everyone?
It works well for mild to moderate crowding, gaps and many bite problems. Skeletal jaw discrepancies may need braces or orthodontics combined with surgery; our orthodontist will tell you which approach suits you.
