Clear aligners for teens
At Profile Orthodontics, we understand that many teens want straighter teeth without the look or feel of traditional braces. Clear aligners offer a discreet, comfortable, and flexible alternative that’s designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are virtually invisible trays made from smooth, medical-grade thermoplastic. Worn over your teeth, they apply gentle pressure to gradually guide them into their correct positions. Because they’re removable, they offer a level of convenience that fixed braces can’t match.
At Profile Orthodontics, we offer different clear aligner options, including Invisalign® clear aligners, one of the most trusted names in clear aligner treatment. Each set of aligners is digitally customised for your smile, ensuring precise results with a comfortable fit.
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners must be worn for 22 hours a day to be effective over time. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every 1–2 weeks, depending on your custom treatment plan. With each new tray, your teeth move slightly closer to their ideal position.
To help certain teeth move more precisely, we may apply small, tooth-coloured attachments to the surface of some teeth. These resin "bumps" give the aligners more grip, and they’re removed at the end of your treatment.
The treatment process
Records & planning
If you’re suitable, we’ll take detailed photos and check recent X-rays to ensure everything is healthy. Then, we take a 3D digital scan of your teeth. Using this, we digitally map out how your teeth will move and what your final smile will look like.
Custom aligner trays
Your aligners are custom-made using advanced digital technology and will be ready for fitting once manufactured. They are designed to fit snugly and comfortably over your teeth.
Your first aligner
At your fitting appointment, we’ll give you your first set of aligners and bond any necessary attachments. We’ll also guide you through how to wear and care for them.
Follow-up & remote monitoring
You’ll change to a new set of aligners every 1–2 weeks. We use the Dental Monitoring app to track your progress remotely, reducing the number of in-person appointments. You’ll only come in when necessary, saving time without compromising on results.
Benefits of choosing clear aligners
- Nearly invisible – Clear aligners are discreet. Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
- Removable convenience – Take them out to eat, brush, and floss. You can also remove them for photos, special events, or sports.
- Fewer appointments – With pre-planned movements and remote monitoring, fewer in-practice visits are needed.
- Smooth and comfortable – The smooth plastic material is gentle on the lips and cheeks, making them ideal for active teens or those in contact sports.
Considerations with clear aligners
- Compliance is key – Aligners must be worn 22 hours a day. Forgetting or choosing not to wear them can slow progress.
- Removing to eat – Aligners must be removed every time you eat or drink (except water), which some teens may find inconvenient in public or at school.
- Not for every case – Aligners are not suitable for all orthodontic problems. Complex issues may still require braces for the best outcome.
- Easy to lose or damage – Because aligners are removable, they can be misplaced or damaged if not stored properly.
Start with a free assessment
Curious if aligners are right for your teen? Book your free aligner assessment today and take the first step towards a healthy, happy smile for your child.
Book a free assessment