Clear aligner attachments are small, tooth-colored bumps bonded to certain teeth to help your trays grip and move them. If you are starting clear aligners, our orthodontist in Grand Rapids, MI may plan a few of them for your smile.
Here's what you need to know about these little helpers.
What Are Clear Aligner Attachments?
Attachments are tiny shapes made of composite, the same kind of material used for bonding. A describes them as composite set onto the tooth surface to improve how aligners hold and push.
They come in different shapes, such as rectangles or ovals. Your orthodontist picks the shape, size and spot for each tooth based on the movement it needs.
Why Aligners Need Something to Grip
A smooth plastic tray can slide over a smooth tooth. Attachments give the aligner an edge to press against, so the force goes where it should.
The that tiny attachments help the aligners move teeth. Without them, some teeth may lag behind the plan.
Which Movements Attachments Help With
Research suggests attachments make aligners more effective for turning a rotated tooth and tipping roots into better position. They can also help anchor back teeth while front teeth move.
The evidence is still mixed for some movements. That is one reason not every patient needs the same number of attachments, and some need none at all.
How Attachments Are Placed
Placing attachments is usually quick. The tooth surface is prepared, and composite is pressed into a thin template tray that fits over your teeth.
A curing light hardens the material, and the template comes off. What stays behind are small bumps matched to your aligner trays.
Living With Attachments Day to Day
Your tongue will likely notice the bumps at first, and that feeling usually fades as you get used to them. Aligners still come out to eat, drink anything but water, brush and floss.
Brush gently around each attachment, since plaque likes to collect along the edges. Our clear aligners FAQ covers more tray care tips.
Will People See Them?
Attachments are tooth-colored, so they blend in well. Still, a notes that front-facing attachments make treatment less than fully invisible.
Many patients find the tradeoff worth it for better results. You can read more about the benefits of clear aligners and the best time to start aligners.
What If One Falls Off?
Attachments are bonded firmly, but one can loosen now and then. Keep wearing your aligners and call our office so we can decide whether it needs to be replaced before your next visit.
You can also view all of our orthodontic services to see the other options we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the appointment to place attachments take?
Attachments go on during the visit when you receive your first aligners, which usually lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. That time also covers how to wear your trays and how to care for them.
The lists attachment placement as part of this first delivery visit.
How long do I wear each set of aligners?
At Herremans Orthodontics, each set of aligners is usually worn for about one to two weeks. Plan on wearing them at least 20 to 22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat, drink anything but water, brush and floss.
Each new set fits over the same attachments and moves your teeth a little further.
How often will I visit the office during clear aligner treatment?
Most patients visit our office every few weeks during clear aligner treatment. At these check-ins, we look at how your teeth are moving, make sure your attachments are secure and hand off your next sets of trays.
Regular visits help us catch a loose attachment or a tray that is not fitting well before it slows progress.
Will removing attachments damage my enamel?
Removing attachments is a routine step at the end of treatment, and your orthodontist polishes the tooth smooth afterward. Lab research shows removal can leave small surface changes on enamel.
A found the type of composite used can affect how much change occurs.
What happens after the attachments come off?
After the attachments are polished off, you move into retainers to keep your teeth from drifting back. Herremans Orthodontics offers clear plastic retainers and acrylic and metal retainers.
Most patients wear them full time for the first few months, then switch to nighttime wear. Your orthodontist will give you a plan that fits your smile and schedule.