The way that aligners work, is high tech and exciting. First Dr Anton will scan your mouth using state-of-the-art optical scanners which allow him to model your teeth digitally. Using specialised software, the teeth can be moved virtually in small increments. With each small movement of the teeth a new model is 3D-printed, and a clear plastic skin is made which fits over the model. This plastic skin or “aligner” is then worn by the patient for a period of 1 week. After which, a new aligner is worn in which the teeth have been shifted a little closer to the final goal of straight, beautiful teeth.

The number of aligners required depends very much on how much movement is required. In other words, the more out-of-alignment your teeth are to begin with, the more aligners will be required to get them straight.

The advantages of clear aligners are:

They are practically invisible

Teeth generally move a bit quicker than traditional braces because equal pressures can be applied to all teeth simultaneously and consistently

There is less risk of damage to teeth and gums due to fewer foreign parts needing to be glued to the teeth.

The disadvantage of aligners are:

They must be worn at least 22 hours a day to be effective.They must also be removed when eating. This means that they might not always be practical for young children or those less motivated to comply with instructions.

Aligners are a longer term therapy and should be thought of in the same way you’d approach traditional braces. The exact cost depends on your particular clinical scenario, but you should expect to pay between R50 000 – 75 000 in total. 

This is something which can be paid off during the treatment period, however there is usually an upfront fee required to cover the manufacturing of the aligners which is done overseas.