Clear Aligners and Invisalign: How They Work
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are removable trays designed to move teeth in planned stages. Invisalign is a brand of aligner system named on the clinic's site. The trays work only when worn as directed, and a dentist must decide whether aligners can address your tooth and bite concerns. Appearance alone is not enough to choose a treatment method.
What does an assessment include?
The dentist reviews your teeth, gums, bite, dental history, and goals. Records such as photographs, scans, or X-rays may be needed. Existing decay or gum disease may need care before tooth movement begins. Ask what changes are realistic, whether another orthodontic approach is better, and who will monitor the treatment.
What is daily treatment like?
You change trays according to a plan and attend check-ins so progress can be reviewed. Aligners are removed for eating and cleaning, then put back in as instructed. Some plans use small attachments or other aids. Ask how many hours of wear are required, how to clean the trays, and what to do if one is lost or does not fit.
After the teeth move
Retention is usually part of orthodontic care: teeth can shift after active treatment. Ask what retainer is planned and how long it should be used. Treatment length and final result depend on the case and adherence, so avoid a fixed promise before assessment. See the orthodontics service page for clinic-specific Invisalign or aligner enquiries.