Clear aligner treatment straightens teeth with a series of removable, transparent trays, each moving the teeth a small, digitally planned step. It begins with an examination and a 3D scan, continues with regular aligner changes and ends with a retention phase. For it to work, aligners usually need to be worn for 20–22 hours a day.
If you live in Istanbul or are visiting for treatment, this guide explains what to expect at each stage. A definitive diagnosis and treatment plan can only be made by a dentist after an examination.
Is clear aligner treatment right for you?
Aligners are often used for mild to moderate crowding, gaps between teeth and some bite problems. They suit adults and teenagers whose permanent teeth have fully erupted. Many professionals choose them because they are discreet and can be removed for meetings or meals.
Not every case is suitable. Significant jaw discrepancies or large vertical movements may need fixed braces or surgical support. Active gum disease must also be treated before any orthodontic movement starts.
The clear aligner treatment process
- Consultation and records: an oral examination, with X-rays or 3D imaging if needed.
- Digital scan: an intraoral scanner creates a 3D model of your teeth, usually without traditional impressions.
- Digital plan: the orthodontist maps each tooth movement and estimates the number of aligners.
- Attachments: small tooth-coloured bumps may be bonded to some teeth to help the aligners grip.
- Aligner changes: you typically switch to a new set every one to two weeks.
- Reviews: check-ups every 6–10 weeks confirm that teeth are tracking; refinement aligners may be added.
- Retention: a fixed wire and/or a night-time retainer keeps teeth in their new position.
If you travel often, tell your orthodontist early. Several sets can sometimes be issued at once, with remote check-ins between visits.
Daily wear and aligner care
- Remove aligners to eat and to drink anything other than plain water.
- Brush your teeth before putting aligners back in.
- Clean aligners morning and night with a soft brush and lukewarm water; hot water can warp them.
- Always store them in their case, not in a napkin.
- Pressure for a day or two after each change is expected and usually settles quickly.
Because aligners cover the teeth, saliva cleans less effectively. Regular professional dental cleaning helps protect your gums during treatment.
What the research says
A 2015 systematic review by Rossini and colleagues reported that aligners perform well for alignment but are more limited for some rotations and vertical movements. A 2009 study by Rosvall and colleagues reported that patients rated clear appliances as more aesthetically acceptable. Standard orthodontic textbooks stress that retention is needed after any type of orthodontic treatment.
Learn more on our orthodontics and clear aligners page or meet our orthodontics team.
Frequently asked questions
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
It depends on how far your teeth need to move. Simple cases may finish in a few months, while complex cases can take more than a year. Your dentist will give an estimate after digital planning.
Will aligners affect my speech?
Some people notice a slight lisp for the first few days. The tongue adapts quickly, and speech usually returns to normal within a week.
What happens if I lose an aligner?
Contact the clinic as soon as possible. You may be advised to go back to the previous set or move on to the next one until a replacement is made.
Do I need a retainer afterwards?
Yes. Teeth tend to drift back without retention. Your dentist will recommend a fixed retainer, a removable night-time retainer, or both.
References
- Rossini G, Parrini S, Castroflorio T, Deregibus A, Debernardi CL. Efficacy of clear aligners in controlling orthodontic tooth movement: a systematic review. Angle Orthod. 2015;85(5):881–889.
- Rosvall MD, Fields HW, Ziuchkovski J, Rosenstiel SF, Johnston WM. Attractiveness, acceptability, and value of orthodontic appliances. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 2009;135(3):276.e1–12.
- Proffit WR, Fields HW, Sarver DM. Contemporary Orthodontics. 5th ed. St. Louis: Mosby/Elsevier; 2013.
Book a consultation
Our clinic is in Bahçelievler, a short walk from the M3 İlkyuva metro stop. You are welcome to message us in English on WhatsApp. See our contact page for directions and appointments.
Medically reviewed by the dentists of Yayla Dental Akademi.