Wire-free orthodontics means moving the teeth with custom-made clear aligners instead of brackets and wires. It is a popular choice especially among adults and teenagers who do not want a visible appliance.
How do clear aligners work?
- Examination and records: A clinical examination, X-rays and a digital scan are done.
- Digital planning: The path the teeth will follow from their starting position to the target position is planned on the computer.
- Aligner series: Aligners are produced, each moving the teeth one small step further.
- Wear: The aligners are worn 20–22 hours a day and changed at set intervals.
- Check-ups and retention: The process is monitored with regular check-ups; a retainer is used at the end of treatment.
We describe every stage step by step on our clear aligner treatment process page.
How they differ from braces
- Appearance: Aligners are clear; brackets are more noticeable.
- Hygiene: Because aligners can be removed, teeth can be brushed normally.
- Eating: Aligners come out for meals; with brackets, hard and sticky foods need to be avoided.
- Dependence on wear: Aligners only work with regular wear; brackets are always in the mouth.
- Check-ups: With aligner treatment, check-ups can often be less frequent.
Easy care and cleaning
- Clean the aligners morning and evening with a soft brush and lukewarm water.
- Do not use hot water or coloured/abrasive toothpastes.
- Drink only water with the aligners in.
- Whenever you take them out, always put the aligners in their case.
When may they be preferred?
Clear aligners are often used for mild to moderate crowding, gaps between teeth, some bite problems and teeth shifting back after earlier orthodontic treatment. More complex cases may need additional auxiliaries or different methods. For a side-by-side assessment, see our clear aligners or braces? page.
