Clear Aligners
A simple, discreet way to straighten your smile
Clear aligners are a modern orthodontic treatment that use a series of custom-made, clear trays to gradually move your teeth into a more ideal position. They are designed specifically for your teeth and are removable, making them a popular alternative to traditional braces.
At West End Dental, we believe in taking the time to understand what you would like to achieve with your smile and explaining your treatment options clearly, so you can make an informed decision about your dental care.
What are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are thin, transparent trays that fit over your teeth. Each aligner is designed to make sequential movements to gradually guide your teeth into their planned positions.
Rather than using brackets and wires like traditional braces, clear aligners are removable and more discreet when you are wearing them.
You will generally wear a series of aligners throughout your treatment, with each new aligner continuing the movement started by the previous one.
The exact number of aligners and length of treatment will depend on your teeth, your bite and the goals of your individual treatment plan.
What can Clear Aligners help with?
Clear aligners can be used to address a range of common alignment concerns, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps or spaces between teeth
- Crooked or rotated teeth
- Mild to moderate tooth misalignment
- Certain bite and alignment concerns
Straightening your teeth isn’t only about creating a nicer-looking smile. When teeth are positioned more evenly, they can also be easier to brush and floss, helping you maintain good oral hygiene.
Not every orthodontic concern can be treated with clear aligners, which is why an assessment with your dentist is important before deciding whether they are the right option for you.
How do Clear Aligners work?
Your treatment begins with an assessment of your teeth and overall oral health.
We will discuss what you would like to change and assess your teeth and bite to determine whether clear aligner treatment is appropriate for you.
If aligners are suitable, we will use 3D digital modelling to map out the tooth movement required throughout your treatment.
You will then receive a series of custom-made aligners. Each aligner is worn as directed and gradually moves your teeth towards their planned position.
As treatment progresses, we will monitor your teeth and make sure everything is moving as expected.
What are the benefits of Clear Aligners?
What is it like wearing Clear Aligners?
When you first start wearing a new aligner, it is normal to notice some pressure or mild discomfort as your teeth begin to move. This generally settles as you adjust to the aligner.
Because clear aligners are removable, they do require you to follow your dentist’s instructions and wear them for the recommended amount of time each day. The success of treatment depends not only on the aligners themselves, but also on wearing them as directed.
You will also need to keep your aligners clean and maintain good brushing and flossing habits throughout treatment.
Are clear aligners right for me?
Clear aligners can be an excellent option for many patients, but they are not the right treatment for every smile.
Your dentist will look at your teeth, gums and bite and discuss what you would like to achieve. From there, we can explain whether clear aligners are suitable and what other treatment options may be available.
We believe in treatment planning with you, not for you. Our goal is to make sure you understand your options and feel comfortable with the treatment you choose.
What happens after treatment?
Once your teeth have been straightened, it is important to maintain your new smile.
Teeth can naturally move over time, so your dentist may recommend retainers after your clear aligner treatment. Wearing your retainer as advised helps keep your teeth in their new positions.
