Clear aligner orthodontics indications and limitations
Clear aligners are removable trays that move teeth through planned stages when the bite is suitable.
The short answer
Clear aligners use a series of removable plastic trays to apply planned forces, and they work best when the teeth and bite can be moved predictably with that design.
Which tooth and bite problems may need another treatment?
They can address many mild to moderate alignment and spacing problems, but severe rotations, major bite discrepancies, impacted teeth, or skeletal jaw problems may need fixed appliances, elastics, surgery, or another approach.
How should you wear and clean your aligners?
Wear the trays for the schedule prescribed, remove them for eating unless instructed otherwise, and clean both trays and teeth before replacing them. Keep every tray and attend planned checks.
When should an aligner problem be reviewed?
Seek review if an aligner no longer fits, an attachment comes off, a tooth becomes painful or loose, or the bite changes unexpectedly.
What should you ask about your aligner treatment?
Ask what movements are predictable in your case, whether attachments or elastics are needed, and what happens if the planned result is not reached.
Frequently asked questions
Persistent pain, swelling, or a sudden bite change warrants prompt review.
Ask what movements are predictable in your case, whether attachments or elastics are needed, and what happens if the planned result is not reached.
Could fixed braces or another treatment provide a more predictable result?
Ask what movements are predictable in your case, whether attachments or elastics are needed, and what happens if the planned result is not reached.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.