Clear Aligners: An Alternative to Braces
How do Clear Aligners work?
The Clear Aligner system uses a series of clear, custom-made removable aligners that are worn over the teeth to gradually move them to their ideal positions. The aligners are made of safe, medical-grade, biocompatible plastic.
The success of the aligners is aided by attachments, small tooth-coloured dots of dental composite (white filling material) that are placed at specific locations on specific teeth.
The size, shape and orientation of an attachment is dictated by the purpose it serves (such as tooth rotation, translation, intrusion or extrusion). These added bumps provide anchor points that help to direct the forces of the aligner more effectively to the tooth.
The number of attachments, aligners and overall treatment is different for each patient. Once the desired result is achieved, the attachments will be removed and retainers will be made to ensure the new positions of the teeth are maintained.
What to Expect
Appointments
Using a wand-like instrument, a Dental Assistant will scan over the teeth, transmitting a 3D digital model to a touchscreen monitor. Using special software, the Orthodontist will manipulate the digital models to create a simulation of desired tooth movements. A series of custom-made clear aligners are then manufactured in a lab and sent to the practice to be fitted. Turnaround time from scan to fitting is approximately six weeks.
At the 60-minute fitting, the Hygienist will polish the teeth before placing the prescribed attachments and fitting the first set of aligners. Patients are then given an additional set of aligners and advised how often to change them over (usually every 2 weeks).
Appointments thereafter will be every 8 weeks with the Orthodontist. When nearing the end of treatment, the appointments may become closer together. Certain types of appointments may be with the Hygienist or a Dental Assistant.
Most patients will require a mid-course scan so that additional aligners can be made to meet treatment objectives. We refer to this process as ‘Next Stage’ and your Orthodontist will advise if and when it will be necessary.
Retainers
At the end of treatment, the hygienist will remove your final aligners and attachments and fit custom retainers to ensure your teeth don’t move or shift back. We recommend lifetime wear of the retainers to ensure the teeth do not change their positions after treatment.
Cleaning & Eating
Remove the aligners to eat and drink, then brush teeth before reinserting. If unable to brush, rinse the mouth and aligners with cool water to get by until a thorough clean can be done.
To clean the aligners, hold them under cool running water and shake off the excess water. A soft-bristle toothbrush can also be used with cool water only.
DO NOT rinse with hot water as this can distort the shape.
DO NOT soak in mouthwash or scrub with toothpaste as these products can damage the surface of the aligner making them look cloudy and more visible.
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CashYou are welcome to settle your account using cash at our practice. Please note: no cash is left on premises overnight.
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ChequeYou are welcome to settle your account with Cheque at this practice. Please discuss this payment option with our reception team to find out more information.
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Interest Free OrthoInterest Free allows you to get orthodontic treatment today and pay it off over time. Your payments will be made in instalments meaning it won't hit your bank balance straight away. Interest Free finance gives you and your family flexibility and peace of mind. Disclaimer: Interest free payment plans only avaliable for some treatments. Ask the team for more information.
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Direct DepositYou are welcome to settle your account with Direct Deposit at this practice. Please discuss this payment option with our reception team to find out more information.
