Clear aligners and SureSmile in Brisbane Southside
Clear aligners are removable transparent trays that gradually move teeth into a planned position. At Dentists In Annerley, SureSmile clear aligners may be suitable for mild to moderate crowding, spacing and selected bite concerns after a dental assessment.
Clear aligners are often searched as “Invisalign” because Invisalign is a well-known clear aligner brand. The current aligner system offered on this page is SureSmile. Both sit within the broader category of clear aligner orthodontic treatment.
Dentists In Annerley is located at 470 Ipswich Road, Annerley QLD 4103. We help patients from Annerley, Yeronga, Fairfield, Moorooka, Greenslopes, Tarragindi, Woolloongabba, Dutton Park, Highgate Hill, West End and surrounding Brisbane Southside suburbs.
What are SureSmile clear aligners?
SureSmile clear aligners are custom-made transparent trays that fit over your teeth. Each aligner applies controlled pressure to help move selected teeth gradually.
You wear each set for the timeframe recommended by your dentist, usually around one to two weeks, before moving to the next aligner. The number of aligners depends on your treatment plan and how much tooth movement is required.
What can clear aligners help with?
Clear aligners may help with a range of orthodontic concerns. Suitability depends on the severity of the issue, your bite, tooth shape, gum health and how consistently you wear the aligners.
- Mild to moderate crowding
- Small gaps between teeth
- Some overbite concerns
- Some underbite concerns
- Some crossbite concerns
- Minor relapse after previous orthodontic treatment
- Smile alignment before cosmetic dentistry in suitable cases
More complex bite issues, severe crowding or significant jaw relationship concerns may require different orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will explain if clear aligners are not the right option.
Who is a good candidate for clear aligners?
Clear aligners may suit teenagers and adults who want a less noticeable way to straighten teeth. They work best when the patient is committed to wearing the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day.
You may be a suitable candidate if your gums are healthy, your teeth are stable, your case is mild to moderate and you are willing to follow the treatment plan. If there are signs of decay, gum disease or untreated dental problems, these may need to be managed before aligner treatment begins.
The SureSmile consultation offer
The current consultation offer includes a 30-minute consultation focused on SureSmile clear aligners, a 3D Primescan with a virtual demonstration and a complimentary treatment plan.
The offer also includes one panoramic x-ray and one lateral cephalometric x-ray. These x-rays may be covered by private health insurance without extra fees or bulk billed at the clinic’s partnered radiology centre, depending on the patient’s circumstances and provider rules.
This consultation does not include a comprehensive oral examination or preventive cleaning. In some cases, these services may be recommended before starting orthodontic treatment.
How the SureSmile clear aligner process works
Clear aligner treatment starts with assessment and planning. Your dentist needs to confirm whether your teeth, gums and bite are suitable before treatment is recommended.
- Initial assessment: Your dentist checks your teeth, gums, bite and treatment goals.
- 3D scan and planning: A digital scan helps plan tooth movement and preview the expected result.
- Treatment plan: Your dentist explains the plan, timing, costs and limitations before you proceed.
- Aligner fitting: You receive a series of custom-made clear aligners.
- Daily wear: Aligners are usually worn 20 to 22 hours per day.
- Progress reviews: Regular appointments help monitor movement and fit.
- Retainers: After treatment, retainers help maintain your new tooth position.
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
SureSmile treatment time varies depending on case complexity. Many cases fall somewhere between 6 and 18 months. Simple alignment changes may take less time, while more involved movement may take longer.
Treatment can also take longer if aligners are not worn as directed. Clear aligners rely heavily on compliance, so wearing them consistently matters.
How often do you need to wear aligners?
Clear aligners are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. They are removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing and flossing.
If aligners are left out too often, treatment may fall behind. This can affect fit, timing and final results.
Are clear aligners painful?
Clear aligners can cause mild pressure or tenderness, especially when starting a new set. This is usually a sign that the aligners are applying force to move teeth.
For most patients, discomfort settles after a few days. If pain feels sharp, severe or unusual, contact the clinic for advice.
How much do SureSmile clear aligners cost?
SureSmile treatment at Dentists In Annerley typically ranges from $5,500 to $9,000, depending on the complexity of the case and treatment needs.
A precise fee can only be given after assessment and treatment planning. Patients should also check with their health insurance provider about orthodontic cover, as inclusions vary between policies.
Are clear aligners better than braces?
Clear aligners and braces both have a place. Aligners are removable, discreet and easier to clean around. Braces may be better for some complex bite or tooth movement cases.
The best option depends on your mouth and goals. Your dentist can explain whether SureSmile clear aligners, braces or another pathway is more appropriate.
What happens after clear aligner treatment?
Retainers are usually needed after clear aligner treatment. Teeth can shift over time if retainers are not worn as directed.
Your dentist will explain the type of retainer recommended and how often it should be worn. Retainer wear is part of protecting the investment you have made in your smile.
Can clear aligners be part of cosmetic dentistry?
Sometimes. Aligners may be recommended before veneers, teeth whitening or broader cosmetic dentistry if tooth position needs to be improved first.
In more complex cases involving worn, broken, missing or heavily restored teeth, your dentist may recommend broader planning through a comprehensive dental examination or full mouth rehabilitation.
Important offer terms and conditions
Patients interested in the SureSmile consultation offer must mention the offer when making their appointment. The offer is available to new and existing patients, valid for one consultation per person and cannot be used with other offers.
If there is a significant delay between the consultation and treatment start date, the clinician may require updated x-rays, scans or impressions. Suitability and results vary between patients. A $150 cancellation fee applies if the clinic’s cancellation policy is not followed.
What is the best next step?
If you are comparing Invisalign-style clear aligners in Brisbane Southside, book a SureSmile consultation at Dentists In Annerley. Your dentist can assess your teeth, scan your smile and explain whether clear aligners are suitable before treatment begins.