What are clear aligners?
Clear aligner treatment is an orthodontic method that uses a series of transparent, individually manufactured trays. The aligners are worn one after another, and each stage moves the teeth by a fraction of a millimetre according to the plan prepared by the orthodontist.
Transparent, removable trays
The aligners are thin and transparent, and they can be taken out for meals and for brushing, so oral hygiene can be maintained in the usual way. Their discreet appearance is one of the reasons many adult patients ask about this option. The effectiveness of the treatment depends directly on wearing the aligners as instructed.
Personalised orthodontic planning
Treatment begins with a clinical examination, radiographs and a digital impression. Based on these, an individual orthodontic plan is prepared that defines the direction and sequence of tooth movements as well as the number of aligners required. Every set of trays is produced for one patient only.
When can it be considered?
Clear aligners may be an option for mild to moderate crowding, spacing or alignment discrepancies. Some clinical situations require fixed appliances or a combined approach. Suitability and treatment duration can only be determined after a medical examination and the assessment of the diagnostic records.
Regular check-ups and cooperation
Check-ups are needed throughout the treatment at the intervals set by the orthodontist, in order to assess tooth movement and to move on to the next stages. The outcome depends on keeping to the prescribed daily wearing time and on attending the scheduled appointments. Once the movements are completed, a retention solution is required, defined individually by the treating dentist.
Consultation and examination
We assess the condition of the teeth, gums and bite, supplemented by radiographs where needed.
Digital impression
We take an intraoral scan, which is used to create the digital model of your dentition.
Orthodontic plan
The orthodontist defines the sequence of tooth movements and the number of aligners required.
Wearing the aligners
The trays are changed at the intervals indicated; the daily wearing time is set by the orthodontist.
Check-ups and retention
We follow the progress at regular check-ups and agree on a suitable retention solution at the end.
Frequently asked questions
01. How long does clear aligner treatment take?
The duration depends on the initial clinical situation and on following the instructions, so it cannot be estimated before an examination. The orthodontist can give an indicative time frame once the treatment plan is ready.
02. How many hours a day must the aligners be worn?
The daily wearing time is set by the orthodontist and must be observed, because the aligners only act while they are being worn.
03. Can every alignment problem be treated with aligners?
No. Clear aligners are indicated in certain clinical situations; other cases require fixed appliances or a combined approach. Suitability is decided after the examination.
04. How should the aligners be cleaned?
The trays are removed for meals, rinsed and cleaned as instructed, and the teeth are brushed before the aligners are put back in.
05. Is retention needed after the treatment?
Once the orthodontic movements are completed, a retention solution is required; the treating dentist defines it individually.
