At your consultation for clear aligners, your dentist will probably let you know that you need small attachments placed onto your teeth. This might sound like part of a treatment plan for braces, so what are teeth attachments? What part of the tooth are they placed on? Are they needed for Invisalign? Our expert team are here to help answer all of your questions about this evolving orthodontic treatment.

What Are Aligner Attachments?

Teeth attachments for aligners are small pieces of composite placed onto the front of your teeth. They help to apply pressure to your teeth with the Invisalign aligner, straightening your teeth over time.

The attachments are designed to be the same colour as your tooth enamel, making them almost unnoticeable to the human eye and help to keep your aligners discreet.

Why You Need Invisalign Attachments

Depending on your orthodontic treatment plan, will depend on how many aligner attachments you need. Your dentist will place these on the front surface of your teeth in specific places and at various angles.

Invisalign hooks can help to correct a patient’s bite over time, and may also prevent unwanted movement of your teeth during the course of your treatment plan with aligners.

How Do We Place Teeth Attachments

We can place clear aligner attachments in no time at all! It’s a simple and painless procedure:

1. Your dentist will make sure to clean your teeth first, to remove any food or debris from where the attachments will be placed.
2. Next a bonding agent is placed to help the composite stick to the tooth
3. Your dentist will place the attachments using composite
4. A blue light may be used to help set the composite

How Are Invisalign Attachments Removed After Treatment?

Once your treatment is complete, the teeth attachments can be removed as easily as they are placed. Your dentist may use an ultrasonic scaler to gently remove the Invisalign attachments, making sure to remove the resin completely and polish your teeth after.

Can Invisalign Attachments Fall Off?

Aligner attachments can fall off, but it’s nothing to worry about! Simply make an appointment with your orthodontist to have the Invisalign attachment replaced, and make sure to continue wearing your aligner trays.

It’s unlikely losing the attachment will have any impact on your treatment, you may need to wear the trays for a little longer. However your dentist will be able to confirm any changes to your treatment plan.

We know there can be lots to think about when it comes to deciding if clear aligners are the right option for you. We hope this article has answered your questions about aligner attachments and how they can support your teeth straightening journey.

For more information about Invisalign aligners and orthodontics in Christchurch, get in touch with our team today to begin your smile transformation journey.