How does clear aligner treatment work?

Hello, my name is Dr. Mercer. I'm an orthodontist.

How does clear aligner treatment work?

Clear aligners are removable plastic trays made to fit over your teeth. As orthodontic appliances, they guide teeth into better positions by applying gentle pressure. They are prescription devices. Treatment is planned and supervised by a licensed dentist or orthodontist.

At a first visit, a dentist or orthodontist evaluates your teeth and bite. To get a full picture of your mouth, they may use X-rays, scans, or impressions. This information helps them decide if aligners are a suitable choice and create a detailed treatment plan.

Clear aligners are used in a planned sequence under professional supervision. The trays are changed as directed by your care team. The aligners are designed to gradually move your teeth.

Regular in-person visits with your dentist or orthodontist are part of the process. At these appointments, they monitor your progress to see that your teeth are moving safely and as planned. While aligners can work for many people, they are not the right solution for every case. More complex problems might need other orthodontic treatments.

People often ask questions about their treatment. How long it takes can vary because it depends on how much your teeth need to move. You can ask if this is the best option for you and what other choices you might have.

Call the office if you have questions about your visit or your care. This is general information, not personal instructions. Your own care team can tell you what applies to you.

Thanks for watching.