Orthodontics
Clear aligners
Clear aligners are removable trays that move teeth in small increments. They suit many alignment problems, but not all — suitability is decided after an orthodontic assessment, not from photographs alone.
- Provided by Dr Shruti Biyani, Principal Dentist
- 3/54 Nullarbor Avenue, Franklin ACT 2913
- HICAPS on-the-spot claiming
How we assess whether it's right for you
- Clinical examination, scans, photographs and X-rays where indicated
- Assessment of gum health, decay risk and bite before starting
- A digital treatment plan showing the projected sequence of movements
Suitability is decided after an examination, not from a photograph or a phone description. If a treatment is not right for you, your dentist will say so and set out what else is available.
What the process involves
1. Consultation
Suitability, alternatives, timeframes and cost are discussed and provided in writing.
2. Records and plan
A scan is used to plan the tooth movements. Small bonded attachments are often required.
3. Aligner wear
Trays are changed on a set schedule and worn 20-22 hours a day.
4. Refinement and retention
Additional aligners may be needed, then retainers are worn long term.
Risks and limitations
- Results depend on wearing aligners as directed; inadequate wear extends treatment or compromises the result.
- Attachments, temporary speech changes, discomfort with each new tray and gum irritation are common.
- Root shortening, relapse and the need for refinements or a change to fixed braces are recognised possibilities.
- Digital simulations show a planned outcome, not a guaranteed one.
Alternatives to consider
- Fixed braces
- Referral to a specialist orthodontist
- No treatment
Any dental procedure carries risks. This page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal advice. Outcomes vary between people, and suitability can only be determined after an examination by a registered dental practitioner.
What affects the cost
- Fees depend on the treatment actually required, and are confirmed in a written plan before treatment begins.
- Aligner treatment is quoted as a course after the digital plan is prepared. Retainers and refinements are set out in the plan.
- Health fund rebates vary by fund, level of cover and remaining annual limits. We can process claims on the spot with HICAPS where your fund supports it.
See fees and payment options for health funds, CDBS, DVA and payment plans.
Ready when you are
Book online in about a minute, or speak to reception if you would like to ask something first. No obligation to proceed with treatment at the first visit.
- Clinic
- 3/54 Nullarbor Avenue, Franklin ACT 2913
- Phone
- (02) 6274 0404
Before your appointment
What to bring
Your Medicare card, private health fund card, any concession or DVA card, and a list of medicines you take. If you have had recent X-rays elsewhere, bring them or tell us where they were taken.
How long it takes
Appointment length depends on what is found at the examination. Reception gives you an estimated time when you book, and your dentist confirms it once the plan is agreed.
Nervous patients
Tell reception when you book. Your dentist can explain each step before it happens, agree a stop signal with you, and break treatment into shorter visits.
Children and families
Family appointments can often be arranged back to back. Eligible children can be treated under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Clear aligners — questions we're often asked
Are aligners invisible?
They are discreet rather than invisible — the trays and any attachments can be seen close up.
Can I eat with them in?
No. They are removed for eating and drinking anything other than water, then cleaned before going back in.
What if my case isn't suitable?
Your dentist will say so and discuss braces or a specialist referral instead.
Related treatments
From the blog
Related reading
- Payment and schemesChild Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) at Franklin Bright SmilesWhat the CDBS covers, how eligibility is checked and what happens if the benefit runs out mid-treatment.
- Payment and schemesDepartment of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) dental careHow DVA Gold and White Card arrangements work for dental treatment at the practice.
- Payment and schemesUsing your private health fund at Franklin Bright SmilesHow rebates, annual limits and on-the-spot claiming work, and how to check your cover before treatment.
Book an appointment
Book online at a time that suits you, or call reception on (02) 6274 0404 to talk it through first.