Can clear aligners fix crowded teeth?

Crowding is the most common reason people look into teeth straightening. It happens when the teeth need more space than the jaw provides, so they overlap, rotate or sit out of line.

How aligners treat crowding

Each aligner moves the teeth a small, planned distance. To make room, your plan may include gentle arch expansion, moving teeth slightly forward, or interproximal reduction (IPR): polishing a fraction of a millimetre of enamel between some teeth.

Attachments

Small tooth-coloured bumps bonded to some teeth give the aligner something to grip, which helps with rotations and more precise movement.

Mild, moderate and severe crowding

Mild and moderate crowding are often well suited to aligners. Severe crowding sometimes needs extractions or a different approach, which your dentist will discuss with you.

Keeping the result

Crowded teeth have a strong tendency to move back. Retainers after treatment are essential.

Read more about clear aligner treatment.

Clear aligners are a prescription treatment. Whether they suit you is decided by a licensed dentist or orthodontist after an examination.

Take the free smile check and a partner dentist will contact you about an assessment.