Clear aligner treatment works by using a series of custom-made, transparent trays designed to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions over time. Each set of aligners is slightly different from the last, applying gentle, controlled pressure to specific teeth.
Your treatment typically begins with a digital scan of your teeth and bite. This information is used to create a personalized treatment plan that maps out how your teeth can move step by step. Based on this plan, a series of aligners is fabricated to guide your teeth through each stage of the process.
You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 1–2 weeks, as directed by your dentist, before switching to the next set. For best results, aligners should be worn for 20–22 hours per day and only removed for eating, drinking (anything other than water), brushing, and flossing.
As you progress through your aligners, your teeth can gradually shift into alignment. Some patients may have small, tooth-coloured attachments placed on certain teeth to help improve the precision of these movements.
Throughout your treatment, your dentist will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to help ensure your teeth are moving as planned.