Clear Aligners
Discreet, comfortable, and removable orthodontic solution
Clear Aligners
Discreet, comfortable, and removable orthodontic solution
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a modern orthodontic solution in which a series of custom-made, transparent plastic trays gradually shift your teeth into their ideal position. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible, and made from smooth, medical-grade materials for comfort and convenience.
Popular clear aligner systems, such as Invisalign®, offer reliable and predictable results when managed under the care of a trained dentist or orthodontist.
What cases can clear
aligners treat?
Mild to moderate orthodontic issues are often treatable with clear aligners, including:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gapped or spaced teeth
- Mild to moderate overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Misaligned or crooked teeth
- Relapse after previous orthodontic treatment (e.g., teeth shifting after braces)
Note: Complex cases involving severe crowding, jaw misalignment, or major bite correction might require traditional braces, functional appliances, or surgery. During your initial consultation at Showground Dental, we’ll assess your needs and recommend the most suitable treatment.
How do clear aligners work?
When you get clear aligners, they work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to specific teeth over time. You’ll receive a series of aligner trays, each slightly different from the last, that gradually move your teeth closer to the desired alignment.
Each set of aligners is typically worn for about 1–2 weeks before progressing to the next. You’ll need to wear your aligners for at least 20–22 hours per day to ensure effective results, only removing them for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing.
Steps in your clear aligner treatment
Here’s what you can expect:
We begin with a thorough consultation to assess your teeth, bite, and overall oral health. We’ll discuss your goals and determine if clear aligners are your optimal option.
Using our advanced intraoral scanner, we take 3D digital images of your teeth to design your personalised treatment plan and preview your future smile.
Your digital scans are sent to the aligner lab, where your custom aligners are created. Each aligner is carefully engineered to move your teeth in small increments.
Once your aligners arrive, we’ll guide you on how to wear and care for them. You’ll wear each set as directed, with regular check-ups at Showground Dental to monitor your progress.
After your final aligner, we’ll provide a retainer to help maintain your new smile and prevent relapse.
Why go with clear aligners?
✔ Discreet appearance – Virtually invisible trays mean most people won’t notice you’re undergoing treatment.
✔ Comfortable fit – Smooth, custom-fit plastic means no sharp wires or brackets.
✔ Removable – Take them out to eat, brush, floss, or for special occasions.
✔ Better oral hygiene – Brushing and flossing are much easier compared to traditional braces.
✔ Fewer dental visits – With fewer adjustments needed, you’ll enjoy more freedom and flexibility.
✔ Predictable results – Digital treatment planning gives you a clear preview of your end result.
Points to consider before choosing clear aligners
Clear aligners offer a convenient and discreet way to straighten teeth, but like any dental treatment, there are important factors to weigh before starting. Here’s what you should know:
Commitment is essential – Clear aligners must be worn for 20–22 hours per day to be effective. Skipping wear time can delay progress or impact results.
Not suitable for all cases – While clear aligners can treat many mild to moderate orthodontic issues, more complex problems—such as severe crowding, large bite discrepancies, or skeletal misalignments—may require traditional braces or referral to a specialist orthodontist.
IPR (Interproximal Reduction) – In some cases, small amounts of enamel may be gently polished between teeth to create space for alignment. This procedure is safe, painless, and helps prevent unnecessary extractions.
Discipline matters – Aligners need to be removed before eating or drinking (except water) and cleaned regularly to prevent staining, odours, or bacteria buildup.
Attachments may be needed – To assist with precise tooth movement, small, tooth-coloured composite attachments may be temporarily bonded to certain teeth. These are virtually unnoticeable and removed after treatment.
Cost and treatment length vary – The total cost depends on the complexity and duration of your treatment. During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalised quote and discuss any available payment plans to help make treatment more accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Are clear aligners painful?
You may feel mild pressure or discomfort when starting a new aligner, but this is a sign your teeth are moving. Most patients adjust quickly and find them far more comfortable than metal braces.
Can I eat and drink with my aligners in?
You should remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. This stops food particles from getting trapped, and prevents staining or warping.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment time varies significantly for each individual. While most cases are completed within 6 to 18 months, your specific timeline depends on the complexity of your needs. We’ll be able to give you a clear and accurate estimate during your initial consultation after we’ve had a chance to fully assess your case.
How much do clear aligners cost?
Costs vary depending on your needs. We’ll provide a detailed quote after your initial assessment. Flexible payment options may be available.
What happens if I lose an aligner?
Contact us immediately. Depending on where you are in your treatment, we may advise moving to the next tray or reordering the lost one.
Do I need to wear a retainer afterward?
Yes. Retainers are essential to keep your teeth from shifting back after treatment.
It’s smile showtime in Bowen Hills
At Showground Dental, we’re here to help you comfortably achieve the straighter, healthier smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re starting orthodontic treatment for the first time or looking to refine your smile after past work, clear aligners offer a gentle, discreet, and effective solution.
Every stage of your treatment will be finely tailored, transparent, and as stress-free as possible, with care and support from our experienced team.
If you’re in Bowen Hills, Newstead, Fortitude Valley, Herston, or Windsor, drop by and see us.
Your show-stopping smile starts here.
Call us today to book your clear aligners consultation.