Clear aligners: benefits, limitations and treatment

Clear aligners are custom-made removable orthodontic appliances. They can correct various tooth-position problems, but suitability depends on clinical assessment, the complexity of the case and the ability to follow the wear plan.

What are they and how do they move teeth?

Treatment uses a sequence of aligners, each designed to move teeth gradually. Before treatment begins, clinical and digital records are collected to study the bite, set goals and plan the stages.

Aligners are worn in the prescribed order and changed according to the schedule set by your dentist. Some cases require small resin attachments on the teeth, elastics or other aids.

Who can use aligners?

They may be an option for teenagers and adults, and for some younger patients, where clinically indicated. Crowding, gaps, rotated teeth and certain bite problems can be treated, but suitability depends on anatomy, oral health, growth, goals and the complexity of the movements.

Before treatment, tooth decay, gum health, oral hygiene and any functional problems should be assessed. Complex cases may require other techniques or a combination of approaches.

What does treatment involve?

1. Assessment: clinical examination, photographs, digital examination and additional tests where indicated.
2. Planning: goals, planned stages, estimated treatment time and a quotation are agreed.
3. Fitting: instructions on wear, fitting of any necessary aids and hygiene guidance.
4. Reviews: regular appointments to check the fit and how the teeth are responding.
5. Retention: retainers are worn after the active phase to reduce the tendency for teeth to move.

Benefits

• They are transparent and usually less visible than fixed braces with brackets.
• They can be removed for eating and oral hygiene.
• They make brushing and flossing easier when removed as instructed.
• Digital planning helps explain the goals and planned sequence.

Limitations and precautions

• They require consistent wear for the daily duration prescribed by your dentist.
• They may cause pressure, temporary sensitivity or irritation, particularly after changing to a new aligner.
• They may become less effective if worn for less time than advised or changed incorrectly.
• They do not eliminate the usual risks of orthodontic treatment, such as demineralisation, gum inflammation or root resorption.
• The digital outcome is a planning simulation, not a guarantee of the biological result.

How long does it take?

Treatment time varies according to complexity, the movements required, the biological response and patient cooperation. The plan may need to be adjusted or additional aligners produced. A reliable estimate can only be given after an assessment.

Hygiene and diet

Aligners should be removed for eating and for drinking liquids that could stain or damage them, following the instructions given. Before putting them back in, it is important to clean both your teeth and the aligners. Water is the usual choice while wearing them.

Price and assessment

At Clínica Prisma, clear aligner treatment is available from €1,950. The price varies with the complexity of the case, the number of aligners and the stages required, and is subject to a prior assessment and an individual quotation.

Book a clear aligner assessment

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to wear aligners all day?

They should be worn for the number of hours prescribed by your dentist and removed only at the advised times. Recommendations are individual.

Can aligners treat every case?

No. Suitability depends on the diagnosis and how predictable the required movements are.

Does treatment hurt?

There may be pressure or temporary sensitivity. Contact the clinic if you have severe pain, persistent sores or an aligner that does not fit.

Are retainers needed afterwards?

Usually, yes. Retainers help maintain the position achieved and should be worn according to the agreed plan.

Read the full information about our service for clear aligners.