Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a modern orthodontic treatment made to straighten teeth discreetly. These custom-made aligners are transparent, offering an invisible alternative to traditional metal braces. The transparent aligners are removable, allowing for flexibility in your daily routine, including eating, brushing, and maintaining oral hygiene. Whether you're at a meal or brushing your teeth, clear aligners offer a convenient, comfortable way to enhance your smile.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
Clear aligners work through a series of custom-fitted, transparent trays that gradually adjust your teeth over time. Each set of aligners is worn for 7 to 14 days before switching to the next in the series. The treatment process is carefully designed to shift your teeth into their ideal positions, and regular check-ups with your orthodontist ensure everything progresses smoothly. For optimal results, it’s important to wear the clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only when eating, drinking, or during oral hygiene routines.
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Discreet Appearance: Transparent aligners are nearly invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without drawing attention.
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Comfort: Made from smooth plastic, clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional metal braces, reducing irritation.
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Removability: You can easily take out your aligners for meals or important social events.
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Oral Hygiene: Since the aligners are removable, you can maintain your normal brushing and flossing routine, reducing the risk of plaque buildup.
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Fewer Restrictions: Unlike metal braces, clear aligners don’t come with dietary restrictions, so you can continue to enjoy your favourite foods.
Cost of Clear Aligners
The cost of clear aligners can vary depending on the treatment plan, but at our clinics in Carlow, Rathdrum, and Athy, we offer competitive pricing for both single and double arch treatments. Single arch clear aligners start from €2,250, while two arch treatments start from €4,500. These prices include an added benefit: a complimentary teeth whitening treatment, ensuring that your smile not only becomes straighter but also brighter.
We also provide Essix retainers as an optional extra at a cost of €150. Essix retainers are worn at night-time to keep your teeth straight. They are bought after you have completed your treatment. Our transparent pricing is consistent across all our clinics, so no matter where you choose to undergo your clear aligner treatment, you’ll receive the same high-quality service at affordable rates. Clear aligners are an excellent investment in achieving a confident smile without the hassle of traditional braces, offering a nearly invisible, comfortable dental solution.
Issues Clear Aligners Help With
Clear aligners can effectively treat a wide range of dental issues, including:
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Crossbite: A condition where the upper and lower teeth cross over each other, causing bite problems, tooth wear, and increased risk of periodontal disease.
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Gapped Teeth: Gaps between teeth, often caused by irregular jaw growth or missing adjacent teeth, can lead to discomfort and gum disease.
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Underbite: This occurs when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth, often due to an oversized lower jaw. Underbites can result in cosmetic issues and problems with chewing.
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Overbite: A common issue where the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth. Left untreated, overbites can cause joint pain, tooth wear, and increased risk of tooth damage.
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Crowded Teeth: When there’s insufficient space in the jaw for all your teeth, they may overlap, making it harder to clean, which can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease.
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Open Bite: This occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly, often caused by genetics or habits like thumb-sucking. Open bites can cause speech problems and difficulty chewing.
Clear Aligner Before and After Pictures
FAQs
1. Are clear aligners effective?
Yes, clear aligners effectively straighten teeth by gradually moving them into the desired position. They can address issues like overcrowding, gaps, and bite misalignments when used as directed by a dentist or orthodontist.
2. How much do clear aligners cost?
Here at The Dental Suite costs start at €2,250 for a single arch or €4,500 for both arches. Pricing includes treatment and often additional benefits, such as teeth whitening.
3. What are the disadvantages of aligners?
Aligners may cause mild discomfort during adjustment periods, require strict adherence to wearing schedules, and can be lost or damaged if not handled properly.
4. Do aligners make your teeth straight?
Yes, when worn for 20–22 hours daily as directed, aligners gradually straighten teeth over the treatment period, typically lasting 6–18 months.
5. What are the benefits of clear aligners?
Clear aligners are discreet, removable, and more comfortable than traditional braces. They allow for easier oral hygiene and no dietary restrictions, making them a popular choice for adults and teens.
6. What issues can clear aligners correct?
Clear aligners can fix overbites, underbites, crossbites, crowded teeth, gaps, and open bites.