What are Clear Aligners?
Clear Aligners are an innovative system that offers you a comfortable, tailor-made alternative to traditional braces. The laboratory uses 3D computer technology to create exact images of your teeth. This technology can simulate tooth movement, allowing your Specialist Orthodontist to accurately predict exactly how your teeth will move. The series of near-invisible plastic aligners work to gently move your teeth into the desired position, to create the straight smile you’ve always wanted. Aligners are typically changed every 1-2 weeks by you, on the advice of your Orthodontist. With the use of Dental Monitoring, your orthodontist can see whether you are ready to move to your next set of aligners without you having to come in to see us! This is great for our patients as it helps to reduce your number of visits, and ultimately the length of your treatment!
Why choose Clear Aligners?
Tailor-made for you – You will receive a custom made treatment plan put together by one of our specialist orthodontists who work closely with our Clear Aligner providers. Each tooth movement is very carefully considered to achieve a precise end result. Your orthodontist can present to you a computer generated image of what your smile may look like at the end of treatment.
Predictable and Convenient – Clear Aligners use computer aided design technology and works with your orthodontist to accurately design the position of your teeth and smile. This technology allows minimal changes to your lifestyle. You can remove your aligners to eat, drink, brush your teeth and play sports. It allows you to maintain your dental hygiene routine and easily clean and care for your aligners.
Discreet and Comfortable – Unlike traditional metal braces, Clear Aligners are an option for patients who are seeking a near-invisible treatment. The aligners are designed with patient comfort in mind. They apply a constant gentle pressure to move the teeth, and the smooth clear plastic of the aligners provides extra comfort.
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At your first consultation you will meet our Specialist Orthodontist, as well as some other members of the team. This 45-minute appointment includes a full clinical assessment, along with photographs and X-rays if needed.
After your assessment, our Treatment Coordinator will guide you through your personalised treatment options and help you choose the brace that’s right for you.
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Your records appointment will be with one of our Orthodontic Nurses. During this visit, we will take a digital scan of your teeth and help you get set up on the Dental Monitoring app.
Your nurse will explain what to expect at your next appointment and provide more details about your clear aligner journey with us.
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Your aligners are ready! At this appointment, your Orthodontic Therapist will fit your first set of aligners.
We’ll show you how to wear and care for them, and provide everything you need to get started on your clear aligner journey with us.
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Attachments are small, tooth-coloured dots bonded to the surface of your teeth to help guide tooth movement. Once these are fitted, you will be provided with a series of aligners to wear.
During your treatment, your attachments may need to be adjusted. If this is the case, we will take new impressions or a digital scan to ensure your treatment continues as planned.
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At certain stages of your treatment, you may need to visit the practice to see a member of our clinical team. This may include procedures such as filing between the teeth, changing attachments, or taking mid-treatment scans and photographs. We will always let you know the purpose of your appointment when booking.
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The big day has arrived! You have worn your last aligner and are ready to enjoy your new smile. At this appointment your attachments will be removed and you are ready for your retainers.