What are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are orthodontic devices that are a transparent, plastic form of dental braces used to adjust teeth.

Experience suggests they are effective for moderate crowding of the anterior teeth, but less effective than conventional braces for several other issues and are not recommended for children. In particular they are indicated for mild to moderate crowding and mild to moderate spacing , in cases where there are no discrepancies of the jawbone. They are also indicated for patients who have experienced a relapse after fixed orthodontic treatment.

After a digital impression is taken from the patient, necessary tooth movements are planned using special software. A separate clear aligner for each stage of planned tooth movement is produced using 3D printers or special thermal devices. Each aligner should be worn for 20-22 hours a day for two or three weeks. These aligners slowly move the teeth into the planned position.The average treatment time may vary between 3-12 months depending on the number of aligners to be used.