Clear aligners such as Invisalign are transparent orthodontic trays designed to gradually move teeth into alignment without traditional braces.
At TLC Dentists, clear aligner treatment is planned using digital scanning technology and computer-guided orthodontic planning. This allows dentists to visualise tooth movement and design aligners tailored to each patient’s smile.
Because the clinic routinely uses digital dentistry workflows, orthodontic treatment planning can be performed with a high level of precision and visualisation.
Clear aligners are custom-made transparent trays worn over the teeth to gently guide them into their desired position over time.
Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners:
• do not require metal brackets or wires
• can be removed for eating and cleaning
• are designed using digital treatment planning
Each aligner in the series gradually moves the teeth closer to the final alignment.
Clear aligner treatment at TLC Dentists begins with digital scanning of the teeth.
This scan creates a precise 3-D model that allows the dentist to design a customised treatment plan and simulate how the teeth will move during treatment.
The practice is led by Dr Eugene Lee, whose professional work includes teaching dentists about modern digital dental technologies. This background in digital workflows supports the use of computer-guided treatment planning for orthodontic alignment.
Clear aligner treatment follows a carefully planned digital process.
1. Digital Smile Scan
A small intraoral scanner captures a detailed 3-D image of the teeth, replacing traditional dental impressions.
2. Treatment Planning
Specialised software maps the gradual movement of teeth throughout the course of treatment.
3. Custom Aligners
A sequence of transparent aligners is produced to move the teeth step by step.
4. Progressive Tooth Movement
Each aligner is worn for approximately one to two weeks before progressing to the next set.
5. Phone self-scanning with the Dental Monitoring app
The patient uses a phone app to scan their teeth every week to allow remote monitoring of the movement of their teeth by their TLC dentist.
This digital planning process allows dentists to visualise the treatment before it begins and adjust the plan as needed.
Clear aligner treatment offers several advantages compared with traditional braces.
Discreet appearance
Transparent aligners are designed to be minimally visible.
Comfortable fit
Smooth aligner surfaces avoid the brackets and wires used in braces.
Removable design
Aligners can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.
Digitally planned treatment
Computer-guided orthodontic planning allows tooth movement to be carefully designed.
Predictable treatment progress
Digital simulations help visualise the planned alignment outcome.
| Feature | Clear Aligners | Traditional Braces |
| Appearance | Nearly invisible | Visible brackets |
| Comfort | Smooth plastic trays | Wires and brackets |
| Removable | Yes | No |
| Oral hygiene | Easier brushing and flossing | More difficult |
| Treatment planning | Digital simulation | Manual adjustments |
Both treatments can be effective depending on the orthodontic needs of the patient.
Digital simulations help visualise the planned alignment outcome.
Clear aligner therapy can address several orthodontic concerns including:
• crowded teeth
• gaps between teeth
• crooked teeth
• mild bite irregularities
• relapse after previous orthodontic treatment
A consultation allows the dentist to assess whether clear aligners are appropriate for your situation.
Clear aligner treatment time varies depending on the complexity of tooth movement.
Many treatments take approximately 6 to 24 months.
Wearing aligners for the recommended number of hours each day helps ensure the treatment progresses as planned.
The cost of clear aligner treatment depends on several factors including:
• complexity of tooth movement
• number of aligners required
• length of treatment
A personalised treatment plan and cost estimate will be provided during consultation.
The cost of aligners depends on the complexity and can range from $3500 to $10,800. Payment plans are available for all aligner cases.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are transparent orthodontic trays designed to gradually move teeth into alignment without traditional braces.
Are clear aligners painful?
Some mild pressure may occur when beginning a new aligner, but this usually settles quickly.
How long should aligners be worn each day?
Aligners are typically worn 22 hours per day.
Can clear aligners fix all orthodontic problems?
Many orthodontic concerns can be treated with aligners, though complex cases may require other approaches.
What types of clear aligners are available?
At TLC dentists, we use Invisalign, Angelaligner, Clearcorrect and Suresmile - choosing the best system that suits your needs.
Patients considering Invisalign or clear aligner treatment can arrange a consultation at
TLC Dentists to discuss orthodontic treatment options and determine whether clear aligners are suitable for their smile.
