Clear Aligners

A series of transparent trays, each slightly different from the last, moves teeth in small increments. You change trays every one to two weeks and wear them 20–22 hours a day. Because everything is planned digitally up front, most of the course can be managed remotely with trays shipped to you.

How it's done

1. 01

   Scan and plan

   An intraoral scan and radiographs are used to plan the whole movement sequence digitally. You see a simulation of the outcome before starting.

2. 02

   Attachments

   Small tooth-coloured bumps are bonded to certain teeth so the trays can grip and apply force in the right direction.

3. 03

   Tray sequence

   Each tray is worn for one to two weeks. Some cases need interproximal reduction to create space.

4. 04

   Refinement

   A second scan near the end usually generates a short series of refinement trays.

5. 05

   Retention

   Retainers, worn indefinitely at night. Teeth move back otherwise — this part is not optional.

Who it suits

Mild to moderate crowding, spacing and rotations, in someone who will genuinely wear them 22 hours a day.

Where it falls short

Compliance is everything — trays left in a pocket do nothing. Severe skeletal discrepancies and large rotations still need fixed braces or surgery.

Recovery

Pressure and tenderness for a day or two after each new tray. A slight lisp for the first week is normal.