Clear Aligners ยท
Clear Aligners in Brunei: How They Work, How Long They Take and Who Is Suitable
Clear aligners are an increasingly popular way to straighten teeth without metal brackets and wires. This guide explains how they work, how long treatment takes and whether they might suit you.
How do clear aligners work?
Your dentist takes a digital scan or impressions of your teeth and plans how they should move. A series of custom trays is then made. Each tray applies gentle pressure to move your teeth gradually into position. You change to the next tray every one to two weeks, and have regular check-ups to track progress.
What is the process at our clinic?
- Consultation and examination. We check your teeth and gums, discuss your goals and tell you whether aligners are suitable.
- Scan, x-rays and treatment plan. We take a digital scan, organise for necessary x-rays and plan your treatment. You can see the expected result before you start.
- Receive your aligners. We explain how to wear and care for them.
- Regular reviews. We check progress and make sure your teeth are moving as planned.
- Retainers. After treatment, you wear retainers to keep your teeth in their new position.
How long does treatment take?
Most treatments take about 6 to 18 months, depending on how much your teeth need to move. Mild cases are often faster. Wearing your aligners as instructed is the biggest factor in finishing on time. Your dentist will give you an estimate after your assessment.
Who is suitable for clear aligners?
Clear aligners can treat many common concerns, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Some bite problems
- Teeth that have shifted after previous braces treatment
They may not be suitable for every case, and your gums and teeth need to be healthy before starting. A consultation is the only way to know for certain.
Daily wear and care
- Wear them around 20 to 22 hours a day
- Remove them to eat and drink anything other than water
- Brush your teeth before putting them back in
- Clean your aligners daily with a soft brush and lukewarm water, not hot water
- Keep them in their case when not in use, not wrapped in tissue
Common concerns
Will they hurt? You may feel pressure for a few days with each new tray. It is usually mild.
Will they change how I speak? You may have a slight lisp for a few days while you adjust.
What if I lose one? Contact us straight away so we can advise on the next step.
Ready to find out if clear aligners are right for you? Book a consultation at Ting Dental Clinic, Madang. Call us on 8669770 or message us on WhatsApp.