Features Overview
At Le Dentistry, we offer advanced orthodontic solutions to help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile. Whether you prefer the discreet convenience of clear dental aligners or the proven effectiveness of traditional braces, our expert team will guide you toward the best treatment for your needs.
What are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners is an alternative to traditional braces, designed to straighten teeth and correct misalignments. Made from clear, medical-grade plastic, these aligners are custom-fitted to your teeth, providing a nearly invisible way to improve your smile.
At Smilefocus we use Invisalign TM and ClearCorrect.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Discreet and Aesthetic
Clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them an excellent choice for those who want to straighten their teeth without the noticeable appearance of metal braces. This makes them particularly popular among adults and teens who are conscious of their appearance.
Comfortable and Removable
Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are smooth and comfortable to wear. They can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing you to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine without any hassle.
Effective and Convenient
Clear aligners are highly effective at treating a variety of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, and mild to moderate bite problems. They offer the convenience of fewer office visits, as you typically receive several sets of aligners at once.
Wearing and Caring for Your Clear Aligners
You will need to wear your clear aligners for 20-22 hours per day, changing to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks as directed by your orthodontist. Regular check-ups will be scheduled to monitor your progress. It’s important to keep your aligners clean by brushing them with a soft toothbrush and rinsing them in lukewarm water.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners
How long will treatment take?
Depending on the severity of individual cases, treatment may vary from 6 months to 2 years with an average treatment lasts around 12 – 14 months.
How does Invisalign, for example, effectively move teeth?
With controlled force on the teeth, Invisalign aligners are able to move teeth through the appropriate placement. The main difference is that Invisalign also controls the timing of the force application. At certain stage, only specific teeth are allowed to move, and these application are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
How do I know if I am a candidate for Invisalign or Whitesmileclear?
Your Invisalign-accredited dentist will determine if Invisalign is a suitable treatment for you
What conditions would make me unsuitable for clear aligner therapy?
Clear aligner therapy may not be the best option for everyone. There are certain types of tooth movements that are less predictably achieved with clear aligners alone, including:
Complex Extrusions: Moving teeth vertically out of the gum line can be challenging with clear aligners.
Severe Derotations of Cylindrical Teeth: Rotating teeth with round or cylindrical shapes can be difficult to achieve with aligners.
Closure of Large Spaces: Aligners may struggle to close significant gaps, especially those resulting from the extraction of teeth other than lower incisors.
For these specific cases, alternative or supplementary orthodontic treatments might be necessary to achieve the desired results. Always consult with your orthodontist to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
What is the minimum age for clear aligner therapy?
Almost everyone over the age of 14 is eligible for the treatment as long as their second (12 year old) molars are fully erupted.
I am currently wearing braces – can I make the switch to the Invisalign or Whitesmileclear?
Some form of combination of braces and aligners are being used on many patients, however you should consult your dentist to evaluate and suggest the best possible treatment for you.
Does Invisalign and Whitesmileclear work on overbites (overjets) and how?
Yes, these aligner systems can correct mild to moderate overbites. The aligners create a force on the front teeth causing them to intrude, thus correcting the overbite.
Are crowns a factor in clear aligner treatment?
Crowns are typically not a barrier to clear aligner treatment. However, small composite attachments may be bonded to teeth to assist with specific movements. In these cases, the location of crowns must be carefully considered and evaluated to ensure the best treatment outcome. Always consult with your orthodontist to discuss how existing crowns might impact your aligner therapy.
Can Invisalign and Whitesmile clear close gaps in my teeth?
Yes, both systems can close spaces between teeth easily, however the location and size of spaces will need to be evaluated.
Will the treatment be painful?
In the early of each stages of treatment, most people experience temporary, minor discomfort. This is normal and is typically described as a feeling of pressure when the aligners are sequentially moving your teeth. This discomfort normally goes away a couple of days after you insert the new aligner in the series.
What is the difference between aligners and other orthodontic options?
Conventional Braces
Traditional braces use brackets and wires to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment.
Key Features:
✔ Highly effective – Works for complex cases (severe crowding, bite issues)
✔ Customizable – Choose metal or tooth-colored ceramic brackets
✔ Predictable results – Decades of proven success
✔ No compliance needed – Unlike removable aligners
Best For:
Severe misalignment or bite problems
Younger patients (children & teens)
Cases requiring precise tooth movement
Clear Dental Aligners (e.g., Invisalign®)
Clear aligners are a modern, nearly invisible alternative to braces, custom-made to fit your teeth comfortably.
Key Features:
✔ Virtually invisible – No metal brackets or wires
✔ Removable – Eat, drink, and clean your teeth with ease
✔ Comfortable – Smooth plastic reduces irritation
✔ Digital planning – 3D treatment preview before starting
✔ Faster treatment time (in some cases) – Typically 6-18 months
Best For:
Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
Adults & teens seeking a discreet option
Patients who want minimal lifestyle disruption
Self-Ligating Braces (e.g., Damon System)
A modern braces system with smoother, faster tooth movement.
Key Features:
✔ No elastic ties – Less friction, more comfortable
✔ Fewer adjustments – Faster treatment time
✔ Easier cleaning – Slide mechanism reduces plaque buildup
✔ Gentler force – Less discomfort than traditional braces
Best For:
Patients who want efficient treatment with fewer orthodontist visits.
Shorter visits