Clear Aligner Orthodontics

Straightening teeth step by step with removable, nearly invisible clear aligners instead of wires and brackets.

Duration

6 to 18 months

Wear time

20 to 22 hours a day

Check-ups

Every 6 to 8 weeks

Visibility

Nearly invisible

What are clear aligners?

Digitally planned tooth movements are turned into a series of clear aligners, each representing one small step. Each aligner is worn for one to two weeks before moving on to the next. The aligners are removed for eating and brushing. From the outside they are hard to notice.

Who is a candidate?

• Mild to moderate crowding
• Gaps between teeth
• Relapse after previous orthodontic treatment
• Adults and teenagers who want to avoid visible braces

Significant jaw discrepancies, heavily rotated teeth or impacted teeth may be treated more reliably with fixed braces. The orthodontist will tell you which method suits you after an examination and digital analysis.

The process

Digital planning

Using an intraoral scan and X-rays, the final position of the teeth is planned on screen, and the estimated duration and number of aligners are set. You can see the result on screen.

Attachments

Small tooth-coloured bumps are bonded to some teeth to give the aligner grip. They are removed at the end of treatment.

Follow-up

Check-ups every six to eight weeks, with new sets of aligners each time. After treatment a retainer keeps the teeth in place.

The key to success

Aligners must be worn at least 20 hours a day. Every hour they are out prolongs treatment. Drink only water while wearing them; sugary and hot drinks warp the aligner and cause decay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medically reviewed by

Prof. Dr. Muzaffer GÜLYURTOrthodontics