The 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners

Introduction

Clear aligners spark a lot of curiosity among our patients. These invisible trays have revolutionized orthodontics, but they also raise many questions. Here are the 10 most frequently asked questions we receive at Dr. Benguira's Orthodontic Center, with clear and honest answers.

The Different Aligner Systems

Before answering your questions, it's important to know that several aligner brands exist on the market:

• Invisalign: The pioneer and world leader in clear aligners
• Spark: Aligners made with TruGEN plastic, more transparent and stain-resistant
• SureSmile: Integrated system with advanced 3D planning
• ClearCorrect, Angel Aligners and other systems

Each system has its own features, and your orthodontist will choose the one that best suits your case.

1. Do aligners really work as well as traditional braces?

Yes, for the vast majority of cases. Aligner technology has evolved considerably since its creation. Today, these systems can effectively treat crowded or spaced teeth, overbite and underbite problems, open bites and crossbites, and most mild to moderate malocclusions.

Some complex cases may still require traditional braces or a combination of both approaches. During your consultation, we will evaluate which option is best suited to your specific situation.

2. How long does aligner treatment take?

Duration varies depending on the complexity of your case:

• Mild cases (slight crowding): 6 to 12 months
• Moderate cases: 12 to 18 months
• More complex cases: 18 to 24 months

On average, most treatments last between 12 and 18 months. However, duration also depends on how consistently you wear your aligners. A patient who wears their aligners less than 20 hours per day will see their treatment extend longer.

3. Does it hurt?

Aligners are generally less uncomfortable than traditional braces. Here's what you can expect:

• The first days with each new aligner: slight pressure or tightness, a sign that your teeth are moving
• After 2-3 days: discomfort decreases significantly
• No cheek or lip irritation: unlike braces, no wires or brackets rubbing

Most patients describe the sensation as "pressure" rather than pain. If needed, a mild pain reliever is usually sufficient.

4. Are they really invisible?

The aligners are made of clear plastic and are very discreet. In most social and professional situations, people won't notice you're wearing aligners.

However, let's be honest: they're not completely invisible. Up close, under certain lighting, you can spot them. Some treatments also require small attachments bonded to teeth, which may be slightly visible.

Note: Some systems like Spark use a more transparent plastic (TruGEN) that can be even more discreet than other brands.

Overall, aligners remain much more discreet than traditional metal braces.

5. How much does it cost?

The cost of aligner treatment varies based on:

• The complexity of your case
• Treatment duration
• The number of aligners needed
• The aligner system chosen

Generally, the price is comparable to traditional braces. At Dr. Benguira's Orthodontic Center, we offer financing options to make treatment accessible. Your dental insurance may also cover part of the costs, just like with conventional orthodontics.

During your free consultation, we will provide you with a detailed, personalized quote.

6. How many hours per day should I wear my aligners?

For optimal results, you must wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours per day, regardless of the system used. You only remove them to:

• Eat and drink (except water)
• Brush your teeth and floss

This is one of the most important factors for your treatment's success. The less you wear your aligners, the longer your treatment will take and the less predictable the results.

7. Can I eat whatever I want?

Yes! This is one of the great advantages of aligners. Unlike braces, you remove your aligners to eat, which means:

• No food restrictions
• You can bite into an apple or eat popcorn
• No risk of breaking a bracket

However: you must always brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Frequent snacking can become inconvenient, as you need to remove the aligners, eat, brush your teeth, then put them back.

8. How do I care for my aligners?

Maintenance is simple:

• Rinse them every time you remove them
• Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water (no toothpaste, which can scratch them)
• Clean them with the cleaning crystals provided by your orthodontist or a denture cleaner
• Avoid hot water which can warp the plastic

Since you change aligners every 1-2 weeks, each pair stays relatively fresh.

9. What happens if I lose an aligner?

Don't panic! Here's what to do:

1. Wear your previous aligner while waiting for the replacement
2. Contact our clinic promptly
3. We'll order a new aligner or advise you to move to the next one depending on your progress

Tip: always keep your previous pair of aligners in case of emergency, and store your aligners in their case when you're not wearing them!

10. Are aligners suitable for teenagers?

Absolutely! Several systems offer versions specially designed for teenagers:

• Invisalign Teen: with wear indicators (blue dots that fade) and replacement aligners included
• Spark and SureSmile: also adapted for teenagers with similar features

Features adapted for teens include:

• Wear indicators: to confirm aligners are worn enough
• Replacement aligners: extra sets included in case of loss
• Growth adaptation: aligners designed to accommodate erupting permanent teeth

For motivated and responsible teens, aligners are an excellent option that allows them to go through their orthodontic treatment discreetly.

Conclusion

Clear aligners - whether Invisalign, Spark, SureSmile or another brand - offer a modern and discreet alternative to traditional braces, with comparable results for most cases. The key to success? Patient compliance in wearing their aligners and following the orthodontist's recommendations.

Have more questions about aligners? Book a free consultation at Dr. Benguira's Orthodontic Center. We'll evaluate your case and recommend the aligner system best suited to your needs.