Invisalign and Clear Aligners in Maitland
If you would like straighter teeth without fixed metal braces, clear aligners may be an option. Invisalign and clear aligner treatment at Lorn Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Maitland uses a series of clear, removable trays to move your teeth gradually. This page explains what clear aligners can treat, how treatment works at our Lorn practice, how they compare with braces, and what affects the cost.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a series of thin, transparent trays made to fit your teeth. Each tray moves your teeth a little, and you change to the next in the series as treatment progresses. They are removable, so you take them out to eat and to clean your teeth, and they are far less noticeable than fixed braces.
What clear aligners can treat
Clear aligners can help with concerns such as crowded teeth, gaps, and mild to moderate alignment issues. More complex cases may be better treated with braces, and not everyone is a candidate. At your consultation we assess your teeth and bite and let you know honestly whether aligners are suitable for you.
How treatment works at our Lorn practice
We start with an assessment and a 3D scan of your teeth, which lets us plan the movements and show you a preview of the likely path of treatment. You then wear each set of aligners as directed, changing to the next set on schedule, with check-ins along the way so we can keep things on track. When your teeth are in their new position, a retainer holds the result.
Clear aligners or braces?
Aligners are discreet and removable, which many adults prefer, and there are no wires to adjust. Fixed braces can be the better choice for more complex movements and do not rely on you remembering to wear them. We explain which is likely to give the best result for your situation.
What clear aligners cost in Maitland
Clear aligner treatment at our Lorn practice starts from $5,000. The final cost depends on how much movement is needed and the length of treatment. We give you a written quote after your assessment, so you know the full cost before you start. Private health cover with orthodontic extras may contribute, and payment plans are available.
Wearing and caring for your aligners
Aligners work best when worn for the recommended hours each day, usually around 20 to 22, and only taken out to eat and clean your teeth. Rinse and clean them as directed, keep up your normal brushing and flossing, and keep your check-in appointments. After treatment, wearing your retainer as advised is what keeps your teeth in their new position.
Why Maitland patients choose Lorn Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
Our Lorn practice welcomes patients from across Maitland and the Hunter Valley, including East Maitland, Rutherford, Bolwarra, Thornton and Ashtonfield, with parking at the door and appointment times that fit around work and school. We plan alignment with digital scanning and a preview stage, and explain every option in plain language before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
Am I suitable for clear aligners?
Many people with crowding, gaps or mild to moderate alignment issues are. More complex cases may need braces. We assess your teeth and bite at the consultation and tell you honestly if aligners suit you.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on how much movement is needed. We give you an estimated timeframe after your assessment. Wearing the aligners as directed helps keep treatment on schedule.
Are clear aligners painful?
You may feel some pressure or tightness for a day or two when you start a new set. That is a sign they are working, and it usually settles quickly.
How many hours a day do I wear them?
Usually around 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat and to clean your teeth. The result depends on wearing them as directed.
Will I need a retainer afterwards?
Yes. Teeth can drift back over time, so wearing a retainer as advised after treatment is what keeps your new smile in place.