CLEAR ALIGNERS
Clear aligner treatment can improve tooth position, alignment and smile harmony using a carefully planned series of removable aligners — often creating a better foundation for conservative restorative treatment.
Position considered before restoration.
THE APPROACH
My approach to clear aligner treatment considers more than alignment alone. Tooth position, proportions, bite, function and the relationship between the teeth and surrounding tissues are assessed before treatment begins. Where restorative treatment such as composite bonding is being considered, moving teeth into a more favourable position first can reduce the amount of restorative intervention required and help create a more natural result.
01 POSITION
Move teeth into a more favourable position before considering restorative changes.
02 PLAN
Use digital planning to understand the intended tooth movements and overall treatment goal.
03 REFINE
Combine orthodontic and restorative treatment only where it adds genuine benefit.
WHAT CLEAR ALIGNERS CAN ADDRESS
Crowded teeth
Gaps between teeth
Rotated teeth
Uneven tooth position
Selected bite concerns
Tooth position before composite bonding
Alignment before restorative treatment
Every case is assessed individually. Clear aligners are not appropriate for every orthodontic problem, and some cases may require alternative or specialist orthodontic treatment.
THE PROCESS
01 — CONSULTATION
Your concerns, dental health, tooth position, bite and treatment goals are assessed to determine whether clear aligner treatment is appropriate.
02 — DIGITAL PLANNING
Digital scanning, photography and treatment planning are used to assess tooth position and visualise the proposed movements before treatment begins.
03 — ALIGNER TREATMENT
A planned sequence of removable aligners is used to gradually move the teeth, with progress reviewed throughout treatment.
04 — RETENTION & REFINEMENT
Following treatment, retention is essential to help maintain the new tooth positions. Where appropriate, conservative restorative refinement can then be considered.
SELECTED CASES
BEFORE
AFTER
Case 01
CLEAR ALIGNERS
Alignment planned to improve tooth position and overall smile harmony.
AFTER
Case 02
ALIGNERS + COMPOSITE BONDING
An ortho-restorative approach combining tooth movement with conservative restorative refinement.
VIEW ALL CASES →
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do clear aligners work?
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
How many hours a day do I need to wear my aligners?
Are clear aligners painful?
Can clear aligners fix every orthodontic problem?
Can I eat and drink while wearing aligners?
Will I need retainers afterwards?
Can clear aligners be combined with composite bonding?
Why might teeth be moved before composite bonding?
CONSULTATION
Every smile is different. A consultation allows us to understand what you would like to change, assess your tooth position, bite and dental health, and discuss whether clear aligner treatment — alone or as part of a wider restorative plan — is appropriate for you.
Consultations with Dr Kunal Rai at Meliora Dental, Leeds.