Clear Aligners

Step 1: Digital Scan & Planning

Your dentist uses advanced 3D scanning technology to create a digital model of your teeth. This allows for precise treatment planning and shows you exactly how your smile will look when complete.

Step 2: Custom Aligner Creation

Based on your digital scan, a series of custom aligners is created. Each aligner is designed to move your teeth in small, controlled increments toward their final position.

Step 3: Wearing Your Aligners

You'll wear each aligner for about 1-2 weeks, then switch to the next one in your series. Aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours per day for optimal results.

Step 4: Regular Check-ups

You'll visit your dentist regularly to monitor progress and receive your next set of aligners. These appointments are quick and convenient.

Step 5: Maintaining Your New Smile

After treatment, you'll wear retainers to maintain your new smile. This is crucial for keeping your teeth in their new, straight position.

How long does clear aligner treatment take?

Treatment typically takes 6-18 months depending on the complexity of your case. Most patients see noticeable results within the first few months of treatment.

Are clear aligners painful?

Invisalign aligners are generally more comfortable than traditional braces. You may feel slight pressure when changing to new aligners, but this is usually mild and temporary.

Can I eat normally with clear aligners?

Yes! You remove your aligners to eat, so there are no food restrictions. Just remember to clean your teeth before putting your aligners back in.

How often do I need to visit the dentist?

You'll typically visit regularly to monitor progress and receive your next set of aligners. These appointments are quick and convenient.

What happens after treatment?

After completing your clear aligner treatment, you'll wear retainers to maintain your new smile. This is crucial for keeping your teeth in their new, straight position.

Your dentist will recommend either fixed retainers (thin wires bonded behind your teeth) or removable retainers (clear trays worn at night). Both options are effective at maintaining your results long-term.

How should I clean my aligners and retainers?

Proper cleaning is essential for maintaining clear, hygienic aligners and retainers. Here are the best methods:

• Retainer cleaning tablets: Products like Retainer Brite are specifically designed for cleaning clear aligners and retainers
• Ultrasonic cleaners: Devices like the Dental Pod Pro use ultrasonic technology to provide a deep, thorough clean
• Daily cleaning: Clean your aligners every day to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain clarity
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Don't use toothpaste, mouthwash, or hot water as these can damage the plastic

What are attachments and auxiliaries?

Some clear aligner treatments require additional components to achieve the desired tooth movement:

• Attachments: Small tooth-coloured bumps bonded to your teeth that help the aligners grip and move teeth more effectively
• Hooks: Small attachments that allow for elastic bands to be connected for additional tooth movement
• Elastics: Small rubber bands that connect between hooks to apply additional force for complex movements
• Buttons: Small metal or tooth-coloured attachments that serve as anchor points for elastics
• IPR (Interproximal Reduction): A gentle process of creating small spaces between teeth by removing tiny amounts of enamel to allow for better alignment

These auxiliaries are temporary and will be removed once your treatment is complete. They're designed to be as discreet as possible while providing the necessary forces for optimal results.