Invisalign & clear aligners
A series of removable clear plastic aligners that gradually straighten teeth without fixed metal braces.
How long
6–18 months typical
How long it lasts
Permanent with retainer wear
Anaesthetic
None
What's involved
You wear each aligner for 20–22 hours a day for about a week before moving to the next in the series. Every set moves the teeth a fraction closer to the planned final position.
Treatment starts with a 3D scan and a digital plan, so you can usually see a simulation of the end result before you commit.
Small tooth-coloured attachments are often bonded to some teeth to help the aligners grip. Retainers afterwards are essential — teeth drift back without them.
Common questions
- Can people see them?
- They're clear and slim, so most people won't notice unless they're looking closely.
- Do I have to take them out to eat?
- Yes — eat and drink anything except water with the aligners out, then brush before putting them back in.
- How is it different from bonding or veneers?
- Aligners actually move your teeth. Bonding and veneers cover them. Many people do aligners first, then a small amount of bonding.