Clear aligners
clear aligners · invisible braces · teeth aligners · aligner treatment
Aligners are clear trays that slowly move your teeth. Every 1 to 2 weeks, you switch to a new tray.
To straighten crooked teeth and fix the bite in adults and teens, when the orthodontist thinks aligners will work.
⏱ Duration: treatment usually takes from a few months to 1 to 2 years; aligners are worn 20 to 22 hours a day
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Treatment. Tooth decay and gum problems are treated first, and a cleaning is done.
- X-rays. Usually a full-mouth X-ray is needed, sometimes a dental CT scan.
- Commitment. Aligners work only if you wear them almost all the time.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Dental X-rays, if you have them
How it goes
- An orthodontist examines your teeth and orders X-rays
- Your teeth are scanned or impressions are taken
- A computer shows the plan for moving your teeth
- Sometimes small bumps are bonded to the teeth to help the aligners grip
- You get your first aligners and learn how to put them in
- New aligners every 1 to 2 weeks, and visits on a schedule
What you'll feel
- Each new aligner feels tight for the first 1 to 2 days
- Your speech may change a little in the first days
Afterwards
- Take the aligners out only to eat and to brush your teeth
- After eating, brush your teeth, then put the aligners back in
- Drink only water with the aligners in
- After treatment, you need a retainer so your teeth do not move back
Common questions
Can I take the aligners out for a day?
No. If you wear them less than 20 to 22 hours a day, the teeth move more slowly and treatment takes longer.
Are aligners noticeable?
Hardly. Other people usually do not see them.