- Sep 9, 2022

SureSmile® Aligners

Updated: Nov 26, 2023

SureSmile® Clear Aligners – one option for a Straighter Smile

Straightening a crooked smile is about more than appearances. It’s important to realise that misaligned teeth are more prone to gum disease and cavities. This can lead to other oral health issues, too. When you have orthodontic problems, it may also impact other parts of your mouth. Teeth, lips, tongues and cheeks all work together to make smiles beautiful and speech clear. If your teeth are misaligned, it can affect you in other, less obvious, ways. When teeth are crooked, patients who wish to avoid years of metal braces are often pleased to hear that other options are available. Faster and more aesthetic options include SureSmile® aligners, as well as clear braces – and other brands of clear aligners such as Invisalign®.

About SureSmile® Aligners

Perhaps you’ve heard about clear Invisalign® for misaligned smiles. Whilst Invisalign® was the first widely available system for facilitating mass-customisation of clear aligners, competitors have now appeared on the market. SureSmile® is another alternative to metal braces. Under the care of a quality treatment provider, these aligners can offer another alternative for a straighter smile.

The system (like Invisalign®) allows your provider to create a 3D model of your teeth. Your provider then uses advanced computer software to design your new smile. Your set-up is sent to a lab where your aligners are fabricated. Each and every aligner is custom-made to fit your teeth and move them gradually into a straighter position.

Just as with braces, clear aligners use gradual, gentle forces to shift your teeth into place. The good news is that you just don’t have to worry about metal brackets and wires during treatment. The clear aligners are made with a solid plastic material and designed to fit your teeth. Each aligner is a little different, so every time you switch aligners, your teeth shift a little more.

Wear your aligners for about 20 hours each day; just as you would Invisalign®. You’ll wear the aligners for a week or two at a time before moving to the next set. The length of treatment depends on your unique case and usually takes from around 6 - 18 months. In some complex cases, aligners can also be used in conjunction with metal braces to correct your smile.

How Does SureSmile® Work?

So, how exactly does SureSmile® work?

Let’s take a look at the process:

The First Step – Advanced Orthodontic Imaging

The first step in the SureSmile® process is when your orthodontic office creates a 3D computer model of your bite with the help of advanced imaging technology. This is the start of your SureSmile® treatment.

The Second Step – Planning Prescriptive Treatment

Once your orthodontist has created the 3D model of your teeth, they will see how your teeth fit together from a range of angles. following this, the SureSmile® treatment planning software makes use of virtual simulation tools. The tools enable your orthodontist to figure out the final position of your teeth so he or she can then determine an effective plan for your needs.

The software allows the orthodontists to plan the position of each of your teeth, so you will know exactly what to expect at the end of your treatment.

The Third Step – Fabrication

Once your orthodontist has laid out your treatment plan, the SureSmile® technology makes a series of aligners according to your prescription. The aim of the aligners is to deliver gentle forces to move your teeth consistently and directly to the desired end position.

Combination vs. Stand-Alone Therapy

Orthodontists can combine SureSmile clear aligners with traditional metal braces for faster or more ideal results in some cases. When appropriate, patients can use the metal braces for about three months for one or both arches. This is usually effective in cases with large rotations, for example.

Teeth tend to respond well to aligner therapy after a patient has had metal braces.

Why Should You Consider ClearAligners?

Now you know what SureSmile® clear aligners are, let’s take a look at the benefits of this treatment. Keep in mind that aligners like SureSmile® or Invisalign® are just one of many tools available to your orthodontist – by far the most important choice is that of an expertly trained and experienced treatment provider. After a consultation regarding your unique needs, you can then consider all possible treatment options – including the option of no treatment – to make an informed decision about what is best for you.

Benefits of clear aligner treatment:

Clinician control – the treatment planning tools allow your orthodontist to control your tooth movements and simulations. He or she can even create alternative treatment plans in real-time. Your dental professional can use the 3D models to create digital adjustments and ensure your completed result is a stunning, straight smile.
Almost invisible – thanks to the latest materials and superior aesthetics, clear aligners are virtually invisible.
Versatility – The software for this procedure allows orthodontists the flexibility to treat with either a single or hybrid treatment to meet your unique needs.
Convenience – most systems (including SureSmile® and Invisalign®) have cloud-based software that makes it easy to access your case data.
Cost effective – whether you have a hybrid or a standalone treatment, your orthodontist should be able to provide flexible pricing and will endeavour to suit your needs. You can choose to have just an aligner treatment or aligner treatment in conjunction with metal braces. You can discuss the options with your dental professional.

Are SureSmile® Aligners for You?

You and your orthodontist will determine if SureSmile® aligners are the right treatment for you and your smile needs. Overall, these technologically advanced aligners aim to shift your smile into a desired position, creating a significant, positive difference. Your orthodontist will arrange a consultation to determine all possible options to guide you to make an informed choice.

If you’re interested in SureSmile® treatment, schedule an appointment at Fine Orthodontics today to discuss your unique needs and related treatment options.

*If orthodontic X-rays are required, a fee of $180 applies. See Terms and Conditions. Treatment may not be suitable for you.

These Products are not available for purchase by the general public. They are however available to Fine Orthodontics patients. Always read the label and follow the instructions for use.