Key points
- Before you leave, we check that each aligner fits your teeth properly.
- Small tooth-coloured “attachments” are bonded to some teeth using a template aligner. They help the aligners grip and move those teeth as planned.
- You may be shown your digital treatment plan (ClinCheck), which maps out the planned tooth movements stage by stage.
- You go home with your aligners, a case and clear instructions on wearing and cleaning them.
- Aligners are usually worn 20 to 22 hours a day, or as your orthodontist advises, and taken out only to eat, drink anything other than plain water, and clean your teeth.
What to expect
Your fitting appointment is when clear aligner treatment really starts. In this video, Dr Sarah Sadek takes you through each step: checking the fit, placing attachments, looking at your treatment plan and what comes in your aligner box.
Most of the visit is about making sure you feel confident at home: putting aligners in and taking them out, how long to wear them, and how to keep them clean. New aligners often feel tight for the first few days; this usually settles as your teeth adjust.
AddaSmile clear aligners
AddaSmile is a more affordable clear aligner option, planned and overseen by our orthodontic team. Each plan includes an in-person 3D scan, whitening and retainers in one price. Ask about it at your free consultation.
Find out about AddaSmileQuestions we often hear
Does having attachments placed hurt?
Placing attachments does not usually need an injection. The tooth surface is prepared, a tooth-coloured material is shaped onto it using a template, and it is set with a light. Your teeth may feel tight for a few days when you start wearing aligners.
How many hours a day do I need to wear aligners?
Usually 20 to 22 hours a day. Take them out to eat, to drink anything other than plain water, and to brush. Your orthodontist will tell you what your own treatment needs.
What is ClinCheck?
ClinCheck is the digital plan used for Invisalign treatment. It shows the tooth movements planned for each stage, so you can see how treatment is expected to progress. Actual results vary between patients.
Save on treatment with a Waterloo plan
Student Smile members get 15% off all treatments, including aligners and braces. Smile for Life plan members get 10% off private treatment, including aligners. Both plans also cover your check-ups and hygiene visits.
Student plans from £9.95/month → Practice plans from £10.95/month →
12-month minimum term. Student plans need a valid student card. The Waterloo Essentials plan discount does not include aligners; full details and exclusions are in the terms. Student terms · Practice plan terms.
Seeing us at Waterloo
Waterloo Dental & Orthodontics is at 223 Waterloo Road, London SE1 8XH, a short walk from Waterloo and Lambeth North stations and close to the Southbank. Call 020 7928 5844 or book online.
In this video
Dr Sarah Sadek
Specialist Orthodontist & Clinical Director
GDC No. 114943 · Waterloo · Croydon