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Dickson Dental on Cape

Clear aligners and orthodontics

Clear aligners and teeth straightening in Canberra

Clear aligners are custom-made, thin plastic trays that move your teeth a little at a time. They're removable and less noticeable than braces, though not invisible2.

Dr Kaur will check whether aligners suit your teeth and bite. If braces would suit you better, she can provide them at our practice where clinically appropriate. When specialist care is needed, she explains the reasons and arranges a referral.

Book a visitCall 02 6160 0540
Clear aligners resting on blue dental models
With Dr Kaur

Could aligners help?

Common reasons people straighten their teeth

  • Crowded teethOverlapping teeth that are harder to clean.
  • GapsSpaces between teeth that bother you.
  • Teeth that have movedDrifting after braces as a teenager.
  • Bite concernsSome bite problems can be improved with orthodontic treatment2.

What happens

Your aligner journey, step by step

  1. 1

    Consultation

    Your goals, an examination of your teeth, gums and bite, and whether aligners suit you2.

  2. 2

    Records

    Photos, X-rays and moulds or a scan of your teeth, so treatment can be planned.

  3. 3

    Your plan and estimate

    What aligners can and can't do for you, roughly how long it may take, and the full cost in writing.

  4. 4

    Fitting

    Your first aligners, with clear instructions on wearing and cleaning them.

  5. 5

    Reviews

    Regular check-ins to see how your teeth are moving.

  6. 6

    Keeping your result

    A plan to help hold your teeth in their new position afterwards.

Options

Ways to straighten teeth

Teeth straightening options include clear aligners and braces2. The right choice depends on your teeth and bite.

  • Clear aligners

    Removable, custom-made trays changed in a series as your teeth move2.

  • Traditional braces

    Fixed braces can suit some bites better than aligners. Dr Kaur will talk you through the choice.

  • Specialist referral

    For complex bites, we refer to a registered specialist orthodontist.

Who it's for

Teenagers and adults

Clear aligners suit many teenagers and adults with crowding, gaps or teeth that have moved. Orthodontic treatment can be done for children, adolescents and adults2. For younger children, see early orthodontic assessment.

Living with aligners

Day-to-day care and costs

Cleaning

Clean your aligners when you brush your teeth and rinse them in warm water. Brush and floss as normal2.

Eating and drinking

Take your aligners out to eat. Sipping juice or soft drink with them in can trap sugary liquid against your teeth2.

Cost

You'll get a full written estimate before you start. Orthodontics isn't covered by the CDBS1; some health fund extras policies include orthodontic benefits. Fees and health funds.

Good to know

Things to consider

  • Aligners aren't suitable for every bite. Some problems are better treated with braces or by a specialist.
  • Results depend on wearing your aligners as instructed.
  • Aligners are clear plastic, but they're not invisible2.
  • Mail-order and do-it-yourself aligners skip the in-person examination. The Australian Dental Association doesn't recommend them, and they can cause permanent damage to teeth, gums and jaw joints23.
Dr Amandeep Kaur, principal dentist, smiling beside a vase of flowers at the clinic

Your dentist

Dr Amandeep Kaur

Dr Kaur is a general dentist with a particular interest in orthodontics and clear aligners. She'll explain your options clearly and take the time you need.

Meet Dr Kaur

Questions

Clear aligners: your questions

Clear aligners or braces — which is better?

It depends on your teeth and bite. Dr Kaur will tell you whether aligners suit you, or whether braces or a specialist referral would work better2.

Are clear aligners invisible?

No. They're clear and less noticeable than braces, but people may see them up close2.

Can I eat with my aligners in?

Take them out to eat. Drinking anything other than water with them in can trap liquid against your teeth2.

How long does aligner treatment take?

It depends on how much your teeth need to move. Dr Kaur will give you an estimate at your consultation.

Are mail-order aligners a good option?

The Australian Dental Association doesn't recommend do-it-yourself orthodontics, because there's no in-person examination first23.

How much do clear aligners cost?

It depends on how much your teeth need to move. You'll get a full written estimate before you start. Aligners aren't covered by the CDBS1.

Keep exploring

Related services

Planning your visit

Ready when you are

Questions about clear aligners? Book a visit and Dr Kaur will talk you through your options.

Book a visitCall 02 6160 0540