Clear aligners are a set of thin, clear plastic trays made to fit your teeth. You change to a new tray every so often, and each one moves your teeth a little further into the planned position.
At a glance
- What they are
- Clear, removable plastic trays made for your teeth
- How long you wear them
- About 20 to 22 hours a day, or as your dentist tells you
- Removing them
- For eating, drinking anything except water, and cleaning your teeth
- Suitable for
- Many cases of mild to moderate crowding or gaps. Some cases need braces.
- After
- Retainers are worn to keep the teeth in position
- Cost
- Depends on the case and length of treatment. Your dentist tells you before starting.
How clear aligners work
After examining your teeth and taking moulds or a scan, the dentist plans the movement of each tooth. A series of aligners is made. Each tray applies gentle pressure to move your teeth a small distance. You wear each one for around a week or two, as advised, then move on to the next. Small tooth-coloured bumps, called attachments, are sometimes stuck to your teeth to help the aligners grip and move them.
Who they suit
Aligners are often used for mild to moderate crowding, gaps between teeth, and teeth that have moved back after earlier braces. More complex problems, such as some bite problems or teeth that need to move a long way, may need fixed braces. Your dentist will tell you which suits your teeth. You can also read about braces and aligners.
What happens
- Consultation. The dentist examines your teeth and gums and treats any decay or gum disease first. X-rays and moulds or a scan are taken.
- Plan. The dentist explains what the aligners can and cannot do, how long it may take, and the cost.
- First aligners. You are given your first trays and shown how to put them in and take them out. Attachments may be fitted.
- Change and check. You move to each new tray as advised and come for regular check-ups.
- Retainers. When the teeth are in position, you are given retainers. Teeth tend to move back, so you need to wear them as told.
Looking after your aligners and teeth
- Wear them for the number of hours you are told. Not wearing them enough is the most common reason treatment takes longer.
- Take them out to eat and to drink anything other than plain water.
- Brush your teeth and clean between them before putting the aligners back in, so food and plaque are not trapped against your teeth.
- Clean the aligners as your dentist advises, and keep them in their case when they are out. Do not wrap them in tissue, because they are easily thrown away.
- Keep going to your check-ups.
Things to be aware of
- Your teeth and gums can feel sore for a few days when you start and when you change trays.
- Your speech can be affected at first. It usually settles within a couple of weeks.
- The edges of the aligners or the attachments can rub your gums, cheeks or lips.
- If teeth are not kept clean, the risk of decay and gum problems goes up.
- Teeth can move back if you do not wear your retainers.
When to get urgent help
Go to the nearest hospital straight away (or call 112) if you have swelling of the face or neck, swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or a fever together with tooth or gum pain. Do not wait for an appointment.
Common questions
Can other people see them?
They are clear, so they are much less noticeable than metal braces, but they can still be seen up close.
Does it hurt?
Aligners are not usually painful, but your teeth can feel tender for a few days after you start and after each new tray. Pain relief taken as advised by your dentist can help.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on the case. Some are a few months and others take a year or more. Your dentist will give you an idea after examining you.
Can I eat what I like?
Yes, because you take the aligners out to eat. You must clean your teeth before putting them back.
Are aligners better than braces?
Neither is better for everyone. The right one depends on your teeth and your bite. Your dentist will advise you.
How much does it cost?
The cost depends on the case and how long it takes, so it can only be worked out after an examination. Dr. Anjali will explain it first.
Clear aligners at Gangtok Dental Clinic
Dr. Anjali Gupta sees patients at Gangtok Dental Clinic and has more than 6 years of experience in dentistry. She will look at your teeth and bite and tell you whether aligners would suit them. She will explain what she finds and go through your options and the cost with you, and nothing is started until you are ready to go ahead.
We are open every day from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Call or message us on WhatsApp at +91 82106 99271 to book an aligner consultation. Our address is on the contact page.
This page gives general information about the treatment. It is not a diagnosis or medical advice, and what you need depends on an examination by your dentist. Please read our Medical Disclaimer.