Discover the Clear Aligners Process for a Confident, Straighter Smile
DISCOVER CLEAR ALIGNERS
What to Know About Clear Aligners
You might be considering options for teeth straightening, but the idea of metal braces could be holding you back. Many adults and teens avoid treatment due to concerns about how they’ll look, talk, or feel. Brackets and wires can be hard to clean, and regular adjustments may disrupt busy schedules. If you’re balancing work, school, or social events, traditional braces can be less convenient for those with multiple commitments.
The clear aligners process uses digitally planned, nearly invisible trays to shift your teeth over time gradually. They’re custom-fitted for comfort and designed to suit real life. You can remove them for meals, brushing, and big moments, making treatment more comfortable and discreet for daily use.
CLEAR ALIGNER ADVANTAGES
Why Patients Love the Clear Aligners Process
Low-Profile, Nearly Invisible
These trays are slim and transparent, designed to fit over teeth. Their appearance may be less noticeable than traditional braces, though visibility and experiences can vary between individuals.
Easily Removable Trays
Clear aligners can be taken out for eating, brushing, or as directed by your dentist. This flexibility makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and stick to daily routines.
Aligner Design and Fit
Each aligner is made from digital scans of your teeth and designed for a customised fit. Experiences during treatment can differ depending on oral health and patient factors.
Considering Invisalign? Next Steps to Explore
Explore whether clear aligners are right for you. A personalised consultation can help clarify your options based on your smile goals and lifestyle.
CLEAR ALIGNER SUITABILITY
Who Is the Clear Aligners Process For?
1 Mild to Moderate Crowding
2 Teens Seeking Subtle Treatment
3 Adults with Busy Lifestyles
4 Previous Orthodontic Relapse
YOUR SMILE JOURNEY
Step-by-Step Look at the Clear Aligners Process
Personalised Consultation
Your dentist will assess your alignment goals and assess whether aligners suit your needs. This includes a clinical exam, digital scans, and a personalised treatment discussion.
Custom Aligner Planning
Using digital technology, your dentist maps each stage of your tooth movement. This approach allows your aligners to be customised to your mouth for controlled, gradual tooth movement.
Wearing Your Aligners
Each aligner is usually worn for one to two weeks, around 20–22 hours per day. Your dentist will monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed for effective outcomes.
Final Results
After your final aligner, your dentist will assess your results and may recommend a retainer. This helps maintain your alignment and reduces the chances of teeth shifting over time.
WHAT TO CONSIDER
Know the Risks and Limitations Before Starting Clear Aligners Treatment
1 Not Suitable for Everyone
2 Requires Daily Discipline
3 Potential Speech Changes
4 Not Always Predictable
Accessible Dental Care
Payment and Funding Options for Eligible Patients
We provide information about available payment and funding options that eligible patients may access to assist with managing treatment costs.
Disclaimer:
- Flexible payment options are available (e.g. Afterpay, Denticare, SuperCare).
- All payment plans and subsidies are subject to provider eligibility criteria, approval processes, and individual circumstances.
- Terms, conditions, fees, and lending criteria apply.
- Please speak with our team for full details before proceeding.
Afterpay
Afterpay enables eligible patients to spread dental treatment costs across four instalments. This option may assist with scheduled payments. Terms and conditions apply, and patients should confirm their eligibility before using this service.
Learn MoreDenticare
Denticare provides approved payment plan options for eligible patients. This option is subject to approval and eligibility criteria, and patients should confirm details directly with Denticare before starting treatment.
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Health Funds
We accept most major health funds for eligible dental services. Benefit amounts differ by fund and level of cover. Patients should confirm entitlements with their health fund before treatment, as benefits and gap payments vary between providers.
Learn MoreSuperCare
Through SuperCare, eligible patients may apply for early release of superannuation to fund approved dental treatments. This process is subject to ATO approval and strict eligibility criteria. Patients should confirm their eligibility before undergoing a procedure.
Learn MoreMPDSS
The Metropolitan Patient Dental Subsidy Scheme (MPDSS) may provide eligible patients with subsidised dental care. Availability depends on specific criteria set by government health services. Patients should confirm eligibility and conditions with their local health authority before booking.
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CDBS
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) provides eligible children aged 0–17 with access to certain dental services, funded by Medicare. Conditions and annual limits apply. Parents should confirm eligibility through Medicare before commencing treatment under the scheme.
Learn MoreDVA
Dental care may be available to eligible Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) health card holders. Treatment and benefits depend on card type and entitlements. Patients must confirm eligibility and requirements with DVA before accessing services.
Learn MoreHealth Funds
We Accept Most Health Funds for Transparent, Easy-to-Manage Dental Visits
MEET YOUR DENTISTS
Dedicated Dental Team Focused on Comfort and Care
Dr. Karthik is a fully qualified dentist with more than 23 years of clinical experience. Since completing his Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2002, he has developed a strong interest in surgical procedures, dental implantology, and clear aligner systems. He holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Implantology from UCLA and has undergone comprehensive training in digital treatment planning and orthodontic aligner therapy.
His work is primarily focused on surgical extractions, implant placement, and managing complex treatment plans. He is dedicated to continuous learning and consistently integrates evidence-based techniques into his daily practice. Outside of dentistry, he enjoys playing backyard cricket and badminton with his sons, as well as practising mindfulness and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Dr. Karthik earned a Master’s in Clinical Implantology from UCLA, focusing on implant systems, surgical techniques, and oral rehabilitation.
Dr. Behnoush is a dentist with more than 15 years of clinical experience. She gained her qualification through the Australian Dental Council in 2008 and has been practising in the country since 2009. She communicates clearly with patients and takes time to explain treatment options, especially during procedures that may be new or feel overwhelming.
She provides care across all aspects of general dentistry, with special interests in Invisalign, cosmetic treatments, and restorative work, such as crowns and bridges. She is dedicated to continuous learning and regularly attends continuing education programs. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys family time, active living, and being engaged in her local community.
Dr. Behnoush is a member of the Australian Dental Association and upholds national clinical standards and professional codes of conduct.
As a Senior Dentist, Dr. Julija focuses on preventive care and communication. She completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2006 and has more than 15 years of experience. Her calm, friendly approach helps patients feel at ease. She takes the time to explain treatment options and values building lasting relationships through clear and respectful communication.
She provides a wide range of dental services, including preventive, cosmetic, paediatric, extraction, and alignment treatments. She tailors treatment plans to each individual and stays current with evolving techniques. She enjoys cooking and cycling and regularly joins her family in the City to Surf walking challenge, combining fitness with community involvement.
Dr. Julija participates in professional development courses both domestically and internationally to stay current with the latest developments in dentistry.
Dr. Julija is a member of the Australian Dental Association - Western Australia (ADAWA), upholding ethical practice and professional standards in dentistry.
Dr. Siddharth is a dentist providing prosthodontic and implant care. He also provides restorative care, including dentures, crowns and bridges, veneers, and full mouth rehabilitation. He focuses on detail and long-term treatment planning, using a methodical approach shaped by patient goals and needs. His calm and clear communication helps patients navigate their treatment with clarity and understanding.
He enjoys creative pursuits, such as drawing, sketching, cooking, and dancing. These interests reflect his attention to shape, form, and balance—qualities that align with his approach to dental restoration and aesthetics. He works closely with patients on treatment options that are functional and designed with comfort and longevity in mind.
Dr. Siddharth completed his dental degree in India prior to registering locally, adding international clinical training to his restorative and implant work.
- Dr. Siddharth is a Fellow of the Indian Society of Oral Implantologists (ISOI), a professional body dedicated to implant training and clinical development.
- He also holds a Fellowship with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), an organisation that promotes global collaboration in implant dentistry.
Dr. Abha is a dentist with a Master’s degree in Periodontology and Implantology. She gained her dental qualification in India and registered with the Australian Dental Council. Her background in surgical and implant dentistry is combined with a calm, clear approach to patient care. She focuses on communication and helping patients understand treatment options that suit their individual needs.
She provides preventive, surgical, and implant treatment with careful attention to detail. She applies modern techniques guided by current research and encourages patients to remain committed to their oral health. Outside of dentistry, she spends her time with family, reading, listening to music, travelling, and exploring new places and cultures.
- Dr. Abha completed a Master’s degree in Periodontology and Implantology in India before gaining registration to practise dentistry locally.
- She frequently attends workshops and conferences domestically and internationally to maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in clinical techniques.
- Dr. Abha is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), an international organisation focused on education in implant dentistry.
Dr. Amy joined the team after completing her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Western Australia. She also holds a PhD in Materials Science from Curtin University, which provided valuable insight into dental materials and their clinical performance. She provides general dental care with a particular interest in implants, orthodontics, and clear aligner treatment, such as Invisalign.
She engages in continuing professional education to stay aligned with advancements in general and restorative dentistry techniques. She takes care to create a calm, comfortable environment, especially for patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. She is fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese and communicates clearly with patients of all backgrounds.
Dr. Bashi offers preventive, restorative, paediatric, endodontic, prosthodontic, and minor oral surgery care in both private and community settings. Her background in clinical dentistry and public health shapes her patient-focused approach, particularly in education and prevention. She communicates clearly with patients of all ages and is committed to providing care that is personalised and responsive to each patient’s unique needs and treatment goals.
During her postgraduate studies, she completed an internship with a healthcare consulting team, contributing to public health projects in various regions. She continues to pursue professional development and enjoys combining clinical care with broader health perspectives. In her spare time, she enjoys basketball, scenic photography, video editing, travel, and exploring diverse cuisines.
Dr. Bashi completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka before gaining registration to practise in the country.
- Dr. Bashi is a member of the Australian Dental Association and follows its standards for continuing education and ethical patient care.
- She is also registered with the Sri Lanka Medical Council, reflecting her international clinical training and professional background.
Dr. Neha is a general dentist with postgraduate training in paediatric dentistry and over 13 years of clinical experience. She worked for nine years in Abu Dhabi, focusing on children's oral health. She recently gained her local registration through the Australian Dental Council and now provides care to patients of all ages, including restorative, preventive, and paediatric dentistry.
She has a particular interest in root canal therapy, minimally invasive treatment, and inhalation sedation for anxious patients. She values communication and clarity in every appointment and aims to create a calm environment tailored to each patient’s needs. Her interests outside of dentistry include travel, creative writing, and spending time with her family.
Dr. Neha holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and a Master’s in Paediatric Dentistry and has worked clinically in Abu Dhabi for over nine years.
Dr. Karthika completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India and worked in both public and private clinics before settling in Perth. She provides general and restorative care, with a strong interest in preventive dentistry and early intervention. She values collaboration and patient education, helping patients feel more comfortable in making informed choices about their dental care.
She continues to expand her clinical knowledge through continuous professional development. She works gently and thoughtfully with nervous patients, helping them feel more at ease during their appointments. Aside from her work in dentistry, she enjoys gardening, trying new recipes, tackling home DIY projects, and sharing meals with family and friends.
Dr. Karthika earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery overseas and later gained registration to practise as a general dentist locally.
GUIDE AND ANSWERS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process of getting clear aligners?
Starting clear aligners involves a step-by-step process designed to assess your needs, plan your treatment digitally, and prepare your custom-made trays. Here’s how it generally works:
- Consultation and Assessment:
A dentist will examine your teeth and bite, discuss your goals, and check whether clear aligners are a suitable option. This may include X-rays, photographs, or digital scans. - Digital Records and Smile Preview:
If aligners are recommended, the dentist will take detailed digital scans or impressions of your teeth. These are used to create a 3D model showing how your tooth alignment may progress over time. - Custom Aligner Creation:
The digital plan is sent to a dental lab, where your aligners are made. Each aligner is shaped to guide your teeth carefully through planned stages of movement. - Collecting Your Aligners:
Once your aligners are ready, you’ll return to the clinic to pick them up. The dentist will check how they sit on your teeth and explain how to wear and care for them. You’ll also receive guidance on when to switch to the next set in the series.
If you’re exploring the clear aligners process, we’re here to support you at every stage. From your initial assessment to the final set of trays, our team will guide you with straightforward steps and ongoing care.
How long does it take to see results with clear aligners?
The time it takes to see changes with clear aligners can vary significantly from person to person. Several clinical and lifestyle factors influence how quickly movement becomes noticeable. Here are some key considerations:
- Severity of tooth misalignment:
Mild crowding or spacing may show changes sooner, while more complex movements may take longer to become visible. - Consistency with wear time:
Aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours per day. Wearing them less than recommended can slow progress and extend your overall timeline. - Biological response:
Tooth movement can vary significantly between individuals due to factors such as age, bone structure, or overall oral health. - Number of aligners required:
The more stages involved in your plan, the longer it may take to complete. This number is based on your starting alignment and the planned outcome. - Oral habits and hygiene:
Habits such as clenching, grinding, or inconsistent hygiene can interfere with how clear aligners work and impact treatment effectiveness.
Your dentist will provide an estimate tailored to your specific situation, and regular reviews will help track your progress throughout the treatment.
Do clear aligners hurt?
Clear aligners use gradual pressure to guide your teeth into new positions. While the process is generally mild, it’s normal to experience some initial discomfort, especially when starting a new set.
Here are the common sensations and what they usually mean:
- Mild pressure:
This indicates that the aligners are applying pressure as intended. It’s often noticeable during the first couple of days with a new set, then tends to settle. - Tenderness or soreness:
Some teeth may feel a bit tender when chewing or biting down. This is a common part of the adjustment and often improves within days. - Edge irritation:
The edges of new aligners can occasionally feel rough against the cheeks, lips, or tongue. If needed, your dentist may be able to smooth the edges or suggest ways to reduce friction. - Snug fit and removal difficulty:
Aligners may feel tight or tricky to take out when you first start wearing them. With practice, removing them usually becomes easier.
If you’re experiencing discomfort that doesn’t improve, book a consultation to discuss your concerns. Your dentist can check your aligners and recommend adjustments to improve comfort. We offer nearly invisible braces for those looking for a more comfortable, discreet alternative to traditional options.
Can I drink or eat while wearing clear aligners?
Clear aligners should be taken out before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. Keeping them in during meals or beverages can interfere with your oral health and treatment progress.
Here’s why it’s important to take them out:
- To avoid trapping food and bacteria:
Eating with aligners in place can trap food and bacteria between the trays and your teeth. This may contribute to plaque buildup, discolouration, or bad breath if not addressed. - To prevent staining and discolouration:
Drinks like coffee, wine, or juice can stain the aligner plastic, affecting their appearance and cleanliness. - To protect the aligner material:
Hot drinks may soften or warp the plastic, which could affect the fit and how the aligners function. - To reduce the risk of cracks or damage:
Aligners aren’t made for chewing forces. Eating while wearing them may lead to cracks or distortion. - To maintain hygiene:
Removing your aligners before meals gives you the chance to rinse your mouth and the trays before reinserting them. This helps support good oral hygiene during treatment.
Can I sleep with clear aligners in?
Yes, aligners are designed to be worn while you sleep. Overnight wear contributes to treatment consistency in the following ways:
- Maintains continuous pressure:
Teeth respond more effectively when aligners are worn for 20-22 hours each day, including during sleep. Leaving them out for long periods can slow or interrupt your progress. - Prevents regression:
If aligners are not worn consistently, teeth can begin to shift back. Keeping them in overnight helps maintain consistent tooth positioning during orthodontic treatment. - Comfortable for extended wear:
They’re made from medical-grade plastic, designed for continuous day and night wear.
If you experience discomfort while sleeping with your aligners in, consult your dentist. They can check the fit and suggest options to improve your comfort.
Can aligners break or wear out?
Yes, aligners can crack, warp, or show signs of wear under certain conditions. While they’re made from durable plastic, they can still become damaged in everyday situations. Here are some common scenarios where this risk is more likely:
- During eating or chewing:
Aligners aren’t designed to handle the force of chewing. Wearing them while eating or biting down hard may lead to small fractures or cracks. - With frequent grinding or clenching:
Consistent pressure from teeth grinding or clenching—especially during sleep—can stress the material and cause it to weaken over time. - When exposed to heat:
Aligners may warp if rinsed in hot water, left in a hot car, or worn while drinking hot beverages like tea or coffee. - When taken out too forcefully:
Twisting or pulling the aligners abruptly during removal can create stress points. This may lead to cracks, especially if the trays are already under tension. - If stored improperly:
Leaving aligners in a napkin, bag, or pocket can expose them to damage. They may bend or crack if accidentally sat on, stepped on, or squashed.
If you notice a crack, distortion, or poor fit, feel free to get in touch so we can take a closer look. As providers of nearly invisible braces in Perth, we can assess whether it’s time to switch to the next aligner or arrange a replacement.
What happens if I forget to wear my aligners for a few hours?
If aligners are out for a short time, it’s generally not a cause for concern. A brief lapse isn’t likely to cause major issues, but taking a few simple steps can help you stay on track. Here’s what to do:
- Put them back in as soon as you remember:
Resuming wear promptly helps maintain the pressure needed to guide your teeth. - Extend wear time that day if possible:
If your total wear time drops below the recommended range, consider wearing your aligners later into the evening or overnight to help maintain the recommended daily wear time. - Check for fit and comfort:
After reinserting, take note of how the aligners feel. If they seem unusually tight or loose, keep an eye on how they settle over the next few hours.
Reach out if you’re noticing changes in fit or have any questions: Your dentist can check whether any adjustments are needed to keep your plan moving forward.
How often will I need to visit the dentist during treatment?
Clear aligner treatment usually involves a dental visit every six to eight weeks. Here’s what generally happens during each visit:
- Progress checks:
Your dentist will assess how your teeth are responding and compare the movement to your treatment plan. - New aligners may be provided:
You might receive your next set or sets of aligners, along with instructions on how long to wear each one. - Attachments may be placed or adjusted:
Some visits may include adding or modifying small, tooth-coloured attachments that help guide specific tooth movements more efficiently. - Fit and comfort review:
Your dentist will check how your aligners are sitting and can address any discomfort, looseness, or tightness you may have noticed.
For anyone considering clear aligners, regular reviews are crucial for maintaining treatment accuracy. At our clinic, these visits enable us to review your progress, provide the next set of aligners, and make any necessary adjustments. To arrange your next appointment or speak with our team, simply give us a call or send an enquiry.
What if my teeth don’t move as expected?
In some cases, teeth may shift more slowly or differently than planned during clear aligner treatment. This can occur occasionally and may indicate that a few adjustments are needed to help continue progress. Here’s what might happen next:
- Your dentist may reassess your progress:
They’ll examine your teeth and compare their current position to the digital treatment plan to evaluate how things are tracking. - Additional aligners may be recommended:
Some people need extra aligners—often called refinements—to support further movement towards the planned outcome. - Wear time might be reviewed:
Your dentist may talk with you about your wear routine and how it relates to your treatment response. - Attachments may be added or changed:
Small adjustments to attachments can help guide teeth more precisely if certain areas need extra attention.
Can I still get clear aligners if I’ve had braces before?
In many cases, clear aligners may be suitable after previous orthodontic treatment, depending on individual assessment. Whether aligners are suitable for you depends on several factors your dentist will consider during your assessment:
- Amount of tooth movement needed:
If your teeth have only shifted slightly, aligners may be appropriate for guiding them back into alignment. More complex movements may require other approaches. - Condition of your bite:
Even if your teeth look straight, your bite will still be assessed to see if clear aligners are an appropriate option. - History of orthodontic treatment:
Details like how long you wore braces, whether you had extractions, or past appliances used can influence aligner treatment. These help guide treatment planning and anticipate expected tooth movement. - Use of retainers after braces:
Whether or not you wore retainers—and for how long—can affect the stability of your results and your current treatment planning. - Health of teeth and gums:
Clear aligners require healthy gums and teeth. Existing dental work, such as crowns or implants, may also influence aligner design and planning.
Can I switch to clear aligners from braces midway through treatment?
In some cases, it may be possible to switch from braces to clear aligners during treatment. Whether this is appropriate depends on certain factors. Your dentist will consider the following:
- Your current treatment progress:
The amount of movement that has already occurred—and what remains—can help determine whether aligners are suitable for the rest of your plan. - Type of tooth movement still required:
Some adjustments, such as complex rotations or bite changes, may be more predictable with traditional orthodontic methods. - Your motivation and lifestyle needs:
Clear aligners are common alternatives to braces for those seeking a removable orthodontic option. However, daily wear plays a key role in the effectiveness of this treatment. - Oral health and appliance condition:
The health of your teeth and gums, along with the current condition of your braces, will also be factored into the decision.
What happens after I finish wearing my last aligner?
Once you’ve completed your final set of aligners, your treatment enters the retention phase, which helps stabilise your tooth alignment and allows monitoring as your bite settles. Here’s what happens next:
- Your dentist reviews your outcome:
They’ll examine your alignment and bite and decide whether any additional adjustments or refinements are needed. - A retainer is prescribed:
To help maintain your tooth alignment, your dentist will decide whether a removable or bonded retainer is appropriate based on how your teeth have moved. - Wear instructions are provided:
This often starts with full-time wear, followed by a gradual shift to nighttime use. Your dentist will explain the recommended schedule. - Your treatment is documented:
Scans or photographs may be taken to record your final alignment and assist with future care if needed. - Follow-up visits may be scheduled:
These allow your dentist to monitor how your teeth settle and address any changes if they occur.
