A Discreet Approach to Orthodontic Treatment
Clear aligners are removable, transparent orthodontic appliances designed to gradually move teeth according to an individually planned treatment approach. Whether considering orthodontic treatment during childhood, the teenage years or adulthood, aligner suitability depends on dental development, tooth position, bite and individual orthodontic requirements.
Orthodontic Treatment Designed Around Your Smile
A Removable Alternative to Fixed Braces
Suitability Depends on the Individual Case
- Tooth position and alignment
- Crowding or spacing
- Stage of dental development
- Complexity of the orthodontic concern
- Ability to follow aligner-wearing instructions
- Individual treatment goals
What Can Clear Aligners Help Address?
Crowded Teeth
Limited space can cause teeth to overlap, rotate or appear crowded. Aligners may be considered to help improve tooth alignment in suitable cases.
Spacing & Gaps
Spaces between teeth can occur for different reasons. Clear aligners may be used in selected cases to help improve spacing and alignment.
Overbite & Deep Bite
When the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth more than expected, orthodontic treatment may be considered to improve the bite relationship.
Underbite
Where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, an orthodontic assessment can help determine the appropriate treatment approach.
Crossbite
When one or more upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting together, orthodontic treatment may be considered depending on the individual case.
Treatment options vary between individuals. An orthodontic assessment is recommended to determine the most appropriate approach for your teeth and bite.
From Assessment to Retention
Assessment
Your teeth, bite, dental development and orthodontic requirements are assessed.
Digital Records
Where appropriate, photographs, digital scans and other records may be taken to understand your teeth and support treatment planning.
Treatment Planning
The information gathered is reviewed to determine whether clear aligners are suitable and to establish an appropriate treatment approach.
Aligner Treatment
If clear aligners are recommended, a series of aligners may be provided according to the planned treatment stages.
Progress Reviews
Regular appointments allow treatment progress and tooth movement to be reviewed throughout treatment.
Retention & Follow-Up
After active treatment, retainers may be recommended to help maintain the position of the teeth.
One Treatment Approach, Individualised for Every Patient
Children
For younger patients, dental development and the stage of eruption of permanent teeth are important considerations when assessing aligner suitability.
Teenagers
For teenagers, aligner treatment may be considered depending on dental development, tooth position, bite and the ability to follow the recommended treatment routine.
Adults
Adults may consider clear aligners for a range of alignment and bite concerns, depending on their individual orthodontic requirements.
Important: Age alone does not determine suitability. An individual orthodontic assessment is required before treatment is recommended.
Different Approaches to Orthodontic Treatment
| Clear Aligners | Braces |
|---|---|
| ✓ Transparent appearance | ✓ Fixed to the teeth during treatment |
| ✓ Removable | ✓ Suitable for controlled tooth movement |
| ✓ Convenient for eating and oral hygiene | ✓ Do not require daily removal |
| ✓ Delivered through a planned series of aligners | ✓ May be recommended for different levels of orthodontic complexity |
| ✓ Requires following the recommended wearing routine | ✓ Remains in place throughout active treatment |
The choice between braces and clear aligners depends on the individual orthodontic assessment rather than age or preference alone.
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Frequently Asked Questions.
Find answers to common questions about clear aligner assessment, treatment and care.
Clear aligners may be considered for selected children when their dental development and individual orthodontic requirements are suitable for an aligner-based approach.
Yes. Clear aligners may be considered for suitable teenagers depending on dental development, tooth position, bite and individual treatment requirements.
Yes. Adults may be suitable for clear aligner treatment depending on their tooth alignment, bite and overall orthodontic requirements.
Yes. Clear aligners are designed to be removable, allowing them to be taken out for eating and oral hygiene as instructed.
The recommended wearing routine is determined as part of the individual treatment plan. Following the instructions provided by the orthodontic team is important for treatment progress.
Clear aligners may be considered for suitable cases of crowding. The severity and nature of the crowding are assessed before treatment is recommended.
They may be considered for selected spacing and alignment concerns depending on the individual case.
Treatment duration varies between patients and depends on the orthodontic concern, treatment approach, dental development and response during treatment.
Retainers may be recommended after active orthodontic treatment to help maintain the position of the teeth. The type and duration of retention can vary between patients.
Treatment suitability, duration and expected outcomes vary between patients and are determined following an individual orthodontic assessment.
Let's Discuss Whether They Are Right for You.
Clear aligner treatment is not the same for everyone. An individual orthodontic assessment can help determine whether aligners are suitable and what treatment approach may be appropriate for your teeth and bite.