Removable Invisible Braces

What to do when my invisible aligner breaks?

If your invisible aligner breaks, take these steps:

1. Contact Your Orthodontist: Reach out to get advice on what to do next.
2. Remove the Broken Aligner: Take it out to avoid discomfort or injury.
3. Inspect the Damage: Look for cracks or chips and note their severity.
4. Store the Aligner: Keep it clean and safe in a container.
5. Wear the Previous Aligner: If it fits well, you can use it until you get a replacement.
6. Avoid Going Without Aligners: Continue wearing them as prescribed to keep your treatment on track.
7. Schedule an Appointment: Make an appointment with your orthodontist for a replacement and to check your treatment progress.

Always follow your orthodontist’s instructions for the best outcomes.

What do I do if I’ve lost my retainer?

If you’ve lost a retainer, it’s vital to contact your orthodontic aligner provider as soon as possible. Using digital technologies and local suppliers, our dentists can supply a new retainer based on your required phase. Contacting your dentist is vital for the timeframe for your alignment. Not abiding by the set program for wearing aligners could prolong treatment.

How long is the treatment for invisible braces?

The treatment length for invisible braces, or clear aligners, varies by case. Typically, it can last from a few months to two years, depending on the complexity of the misalignment and the patient’s adherence to wearing the aligners.

On average, treatment takes about 12 to 18 months, though simpler cases may be completed in six months, while more complex cases could extend to two years.

Each patient’s treatment plan is unique, and your orthodontist or dentist will assess your specific situation to provide an estimated timeline and outline what to expect during the process.

Is everyone eligible for invisible braces?

Most people can use invisible braces, or clear aligners, but eligibility depends on individual dental needs and the severity of orthodontic issues. Clear aligners are effective for crooked teeth, gaps, and bite problems, offering a removable alternative to traditional metal braces.

However, traditional braces may be preferable for severe malocclusion or complex dental issues, as they work faster and provide more comprehensive alignment. To determine your best option, consult an orthodontist or experienced dental professional.

Can invisalign or clear aligners treat complex misalignment?

Invisalign, or clear aligners, can effectively treat orthodontic issues, including exceptionally mild to moderate misalignments like gaps, crooked teeth, and mild bite problems. However, traditional braces may be necessary for severe cases such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites.

A consultation with an orthodontist or dentist is essential to determine if Invisalign is right for you. They will assess your teeth and may suggest additional treatments for any underlying issues.

To achieve the best results, it is crucial to follow the treatment plan, wear the aligners as instructed, and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Does my diet need to change with removable braces?

When wearing invisible braces, you may need to adjust your diet. Although clear aligners are removable, it’s essential to avoid certain foods to protect them and your treatment progress.

Here are some guidelines:

• Avoid hard foods like popcorn and nuts, which can damage the aligners.
• Steer clear of sticky foods like gum and caramel that may adhere to the aligners.
• Cut food into small pieces and chew carefully to avoid biting the aligners too hard.
• Limit sugary and acidic drinks like soda and fruit juice, as they can lead to tooth decay and harm the aligners.
• Remove aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water, and clean both your teeth and aligners before reinserting them.

Maintaining good oral health is vital, so eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. If you have concerns about your diet and clear aligners, consult your dentist.

Can I claim invisible braces on private health insurance in Australia?

In Australia, private health insurance may cover some or all invisible braces costs, but coverage varies by insurer and policy. Check your policy details or contact your insurer to find out if your plan includes invisible braces. Some plans may have waiting periods, annual or lifetime limits, and might only cover specific types of braces or providers.

Discuss your options and potential insurance coverage with your dentist and insurer if you’re considering invisible braces. Orthodontic coverage can be part of “Extras,” but some plans may require an additional level of coverage.

Standard Orthodontic Item Numbers include:

• 825 Sequential plastic aligners – per arch
• 881 Complete course of orthodontic treatment

Do I need routine consultations with my dentist with clear aligners?

Regular dental visits during clear aligner treatment are essential for several reasons:

• Progress Monitoring: Your dentist tracks your treatment to ensure your teeth move as planned. If any issues arise, they can adjust the treatment accordingly.
• Issue Resolution: If you face discomfort with your aligners, your dentist can help resolve these problems to keep your treatment on track.
• Oral Health Maintenance: Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and catch potential issues like cavities or gum disease early, preventing treatment delays. Amazing Smiles can handle all necessary dental services in-house.
• Fit Assurance: Clear aligners can wear out or become misshapen. Regular check-ups ensure they fit correctly and effectively move your teeth.

In short, regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining oral health and ensuring the success of your clear aligner treatment.

Why do teeth shift after aligner treatment?

Completing treatment with invisible braces is an exciting milestone, but many patients notice their teeth can still shift afterwards. While this is also true for traditional braces, some factors are unique to clear aligner therapy. Understanding these causes—and how to prevent them—helps ensure your results last.

Common Reasons Teeth Move After Clear Aligner Treatment

1. Elastic Memory of Ligaments and Bone Remodelling

Your teeth are held in place by periodontal ligaments, which are elastic by nature. During treatment, these ligaments and the surrounding bone are stretched and reshaped. Once aligners are removed, they naturally try to pull teeth back to their original positions. Since bone remodelling takes time, retention is crucial in the months following treatment.

2. Inconsistent Retainer Wear

Wearing retainers after aligner therapy is non-negotiable. Retainers keep teeth in place while the bone and ligaments stabilise. Skipping nights or not following your orthodontist’s instructions can quickly lead to relapse—especially in the first few months.

3. Natural Tooth Movement (Mesial Drift)

Teeth naturally drift forward over time, a process called mesial drift. Even perfectly aligned teeth will move without ongoing retainer use. Clear aligners correct alignment, but long-term stability depends on proper retention.

4. Soft Tissue Pressure

Forces from the tongue, lips, and cheeks play a role in tooth position. Habits such as tongue thrusting or lip biting can push teeth out of place after treatment. Because aligners are removable, patients may not develop the same muscle adaptation that braces encourage, making post-treatment shifts more likely if habits aren’t corrected.

5. Insufficient Stabilisation During Treatment

Each aligner must be worn for the full recommended time (20–22 hours daily) and for the prescribed number of days. Switching too early or wearing aligners inconsistently prevents teeth from fully stabilising, increasing the risk of relapse.

6. Growth and Development in Younger Patients

For teenagers and young adults, ongoing jaw and facial growth can naturally alter tooth alignment. This is especially noticeable during late adolescence, when wisdom teeth may begin to erupt.

7. Wisdom Teeth Eruption

As wisdom teeth come in, they can create pressure against neighbouring molars, leading to shifting or crowding. Regular dental check-ups help detect these issues early and determine if extraction is needed.

8. Bite Forces and Grinding

Daily chewing forces and habits like clenching or grinding (bruxism) can subtly move teeth over time. A night guard may be recommended for patients prone to grinding.

How to Prevent Teeth From Shifting After Invisible Braces

• Wear Retainers Consistently: Follow your orthodontist’s instructions—typically full-time at first, then nightly long-term.
• Schedule Regular Check-ups: Ongoing visits allow your dentist or orthodontist to catch early changes and adjust retention if needed.
• Address Habits: Correct issues like tongue thrusting, nail-biting, or grinding that create pressure on teeth.
• Monitor Wisdom Teeth: X-rays and exams help track eruption and avoid crowding.
• Act Quickly if Shifts Occur: If you notice movement, seek advice early. Minor adjustments or “touch-up” aligners can often correct small shifts.

The Bottom Line

Some degree of tooth movement is natural over time, but with proper aftercare, you can maintain the results of your invisible braces treatment. Wearing retainers, managing oral habits, and keeping up with regular check-ups are the most effective ways to protect your investment and enjoy a confident smile for years to come.

Do clear aligners require elastics and what are they for?

Clear aligners may require elastics to correct bite issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Elastics provide additional force to align the jaws, more effectively guiding tooth and jaw movements. They attach to hooks on the aligners or teeth and should be worn most of the day, only removed for eating or brushing, to ensure optimal results.

IMPORTANT: Why is my quote for aligners different from others?

The cost of clear aligners, such as invisible braces, varies based on several factors:

• Brand and Provider: Different brands have different pricing. Well-known brands often charge more due to higher investment in research and marketing.
• Complexity of Misalignment: More severe cases may require extensive treatment, increasing costs.
• Length of Treatment: Longer treatments with more aligners are typically more expensive.
• Additional Dental Treatments: Costs may rise if extra procedures (like tooth extractions or gum disease treatment) are necessary for optimal results.

Ultimately, the cost of clear aligners is an investment in your oral health and smile. We offer a FREE analysis for a personalised quote. Complete the form below to schedule an in-chair consultation.

Note: No treatment is provided during the free consultation.