The number of adults who are choosing to invest in their dental health and improve their teeth is growing each year. One study has found that the number of people over 18 who choose to wear clear aligners has increased by 58% to over a million users per year.
And while the process might feel simple, most people don’t realize how a is actually involved until they sit in the chair and it’s time to get serious.
But this post is going to look at the real things you need to be asking if this treatment is on the cards for you.
How Long Will My Treatment Realistically Take?
Everyone hopes for a six-month miracle, but honestly, most people won’t get it in the timeframe. Aligners move teeth in tiny increments, so your dentist won’t get a clear picture of the timeline until you start seeing results. So when you go for your consultation, your dentist should be able to provide you with a range, not a definitive scale, as this is near impossible to know upfront. And ask about what might extend the process — missed trays, stubborn teeth, attachments that need tweaking. It’s better to know upfront than down the line and be disappointed by your progress.
What Kind of Results Can I Actually Expect?
Dentists are honest when you ask directly. So ask directly. Some movements are easy to correct, others take more time and need more work. Ask where your teeth fall on this scale and what results are more realistic to aim for — will your bite change, will that tiny imperfection remain post treatment? Whatever you want to know about what the end result might look like, ask now.
Will I Need Attachments or IPR?
People don’t tell you this part. Many aligner cases need attachments (those tiny tooth coloured bumps) or IPR — the gentle filling between teeth to make space for movement. It’s completely normal; it’s just not mentioned as much as other aspects of treatment.
- Will I need attachments?
- How many?
- Where?
- Is IPR part of the plan?
This removes the surprise element when treatment starts.
How Often Will I Be Checked?
Aligner plans vary, and invisible braces cost will be dependent on how often you will be seen and the duration of the treatment plan. Some dentists will want you to book in every few weeks, others prefer longer in between appointments, and others use remote monitoring apps you can check in via. But ask this question so you know what to expect and what’s considered a standard appointment, and what is an emergency too, so you’re not left at home worrying between checkups.
What’s The Retainer Plan After Treatment?
People forget this part until they’re actually there and suddenly find out that retainer wear is for life. Not months. If that sounds harsh, ask your dentist why it matters — they’ll tell you straight: your teeth will move back if you don’t hold them in place.
Ask about which type of retainer you will get, how long you’ll need to wear it full-time, and what the replacement cost is. It’s the most often overlooked part of treatment, but a really important one.
