If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, you’ve probably come across clear aligners. They have become an increasingly popular way to improve the position of teeth without the need for traditional metal braces.
At Smile Society, we often meet patients who want to know how clear aligners work, how long treatment takes and whether they might be suitable for their smile. Whether you visit us in Chester, Wrexham, Coppull or Caernarfon, our team will take the time to answer your questions and explain your options clearly.
Every smile is unique, so treatment is always tailored to the individual. A consultation is the best way to find out whether clear aligners could be suitable for you.
Clear aligners are a series of custom made, transparent trays that fit closely over your teeth. Each aligner is designed to make small, controlled movements, gradually guiding your teeth into their planned position.
Unlike fixed braces, there are no metal brackets or wires. The aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out when eating, drinking anything other than water, and when brushing and cleaning your teeth.
Before treatment begins, your dentist will take digital scans or impressions of your teeth. These are used to create a personalised treatment plan, ensuring each aligner is made specifically for your smile.
Although the movement is gradual, there is some fascinating science behind it.
Each aligner applies gentle pressure to selected teeth. Over time, this encourages the bone around the roots of your teeth to adapt, allowing them to move safely into a new position.
The changes are small with each aligner, which helps make the process more comfortable and predictable.
Most patients are advised to wear their aligners for around 20 to 22 hours each day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking hot or sugary drinks, and cleaning your teeth.
Wearing your aligners as advised is one of the most important parts of treatment. If they are left out for long periods, treatment may take longer than expected and the planned tooth movements may not be achieved.
The first step is a consultation with one of our dentists at Smile Society.
During your appointment, we’ll discuss what you’d like to improve about your smile and carry out a thorough assessment of your teeth, gums and bite. We may also take digital scans or photographs to help us plan your treatment.
If clear aligners could be suitable for you, we’ll explain:
We’ll also answer any questions you may have, so you can decide whether treatment feels right for you.
Clear aligners may be suitable for correcting a range of orthodontic concerns, although suitability varies from person to person.
They can often be used to treat:
Some more complex cases may be better suited to fixed braces or another form of orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will explain the options available based on your individual needs.
Most patients settle into wearing clear aligners quite quickly.
When you first start wearing a new aligner, you may notice a feeling of pressure or mild tenderness for a day or two. This is completely normal and usually shows that the aligner is working to move your teeth.
Because aligners are made from smooth plastic, many people find them more comfortable than traditional braces, which can sometimes rub against the cheeks or lips.
Everyone’s experience is different, and your dentist will be happy to offer advice if you have any concerns during treatment.
Looking after your aligners is straightforward and helps keep both your teeth and aligners clean.
Some simple tips include:
Good oral hygiene remains just as important during orthodontic treatment as it is at any other time.
Yes. Once your treatment is complete, retainers are usually recommended to help maintain your new smile.
Teeth can naturally move over time, even after orthodontic treatment has finished. Wearing retainers as advised by your dentist can help reduce this movement and protect the result you’ve achieved.
Your dentist will explain the different types of retainers available and how often they should be worn.
Not always.
While clear aligners are suitable for many patients, they are not the best option in every situation. Factors such as your oral health, bite and the amount of tooth movement needed all influence which treatment may be most appropriate.
At Smile Society, our aim is to recommend the treatment that is best suited to your individual needs, not simply the most popular option.
If you’ve been considering straightening your teeth, now could be a good opportunity to explore your options. Smile Society is currently offering a limited time saving on clear aligner treatment across our practices in Chester, Wrexham, Coppull and Caernarfon.
Before any treatment begins, we’ll carry out a full assessment to make sure clear aligners are suitable for you. We’ll also explain the costs, expected treatment times and any alternative options available, helping you make an informed decision.
Choosing to straighten your teeth is a personal decision, and it’s important that you have all the information you need before getting started.
If you’d like to find out whether clear aligners could be suitable for you, our friendly team at Smile Society is here to help. We welcome patients at our practices in Chester, Wrexham, Coppull and Caernarfon, where we’ll take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions and discuss the treatment options available.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule your appointment today and let our friendly team care for your smile.
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