Aligners & Retainers

Alexandra Hills, QLD

There Are Many Ways to Improve a Smile

At SW Orthodontics, we understand that every smile is unique — and so is every treatment journey. For patients who prefer a more flexible and discreet way to straighten their teeth, we offer a range of aligner and retainer solutions. From Invisalign clear aligners to staged and hybrid treatments, our modern approach combines comfort, precision, and convenience. Using advanced digital planning and 3D imaging, Dr. Sam Wong creates tailored treatment plans designed to deliver outstanding results — often with minimal impact on your daily life.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces. Made from transparent, medical-grade plastic, they gently move your teeth into alignment over time without the use of metal brackets or wires. Each set of aligners is custom-made and replaced every few weeks to continue guiding your teeth into position. They’re nearly invisible, easy to remove, and perfect for adults and teens who want an aesthetic solution that fits their lifestyle. The benefits of clear aligners include:

Virtually invisible design

Comfortable and removable for eating and cleaning

Custom-made for precision and comfort

Ideal for mild to moderate alignment issues

At SW Orthodontics, we use the latest aligner systems to ensure predictable results and a smooth, comfortable treatment experience.

Retainers

Once your active treatment is complete, retainers play a vital role in maintaining your new smile. They prevent your teeth from shifting back into their old positions, keeping your alignment stable and long-lasting. We offer both fixed and removable retainers, depending on your treatment plan and personal preference. Types of Retainers:

Removable retainers: Easy to clean and wear as needed.

Fixed retainers: Attached discreetly behind the teeth for continuous support.

Dr. Sam Wong will advise on the best option for you and provide guidance on proper care to protect your smile for years to come.

Staged Treatment

For some patients, orthodontic care is best delivered in stages. Staged treatment involves addressing developing issues early — often during childhood — and then completing full treatment later once all adult teeth have come through. This proactive approach helps guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, and reduce the need for extractions or complex treatment later in life. Staged treatment benefits:

Early correction of bite and alignment problems

Reduced complexity of future treatment

Healthier development of teeth and jaw structure

By planning ahead, we make sure your child’s smile has the best possible foundation for long-term health.

Hybrid Treatment

Hybrid treatment combines the best of both worlds — the precision of braces with the flexibility of aligners. For example, braces may be used initially for complex tooth movement, followed by aligners for fine-tuning and finishing. This approach allows Dr. Wong to customise your care to achieve the best results in the shortest possible time.

Advantages of Hybrid Treatment:

Tailored to suit individual needs

Efficient and precise correction

Aesthetic flexibility throughout treatment

Hybrid treatment is ideal for patients seeking effective results without being limited to one treatment type.

Planning Treatment

Before any aligner or retainer treatment begins, a detailed planning process ensures every movement is carefully mapped out. Using digital scans and 3D simulations, Dr. Sam Wong can show you exactly how your teeth will move and what your final smile will look like before treatment even starts. This technology enhances accuracy, shortens treatment time, and provides full transparency throughout your journey.

Conditions We Treat

Whether you’re starting orthodontic care for the first time or fine-tuning past results, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Our aligner and staged orthodontic treatments can help correct:

Mild to moderate crowding

Gaps between teeth

Crossbite and overbite issues

Relapse after previous orthodontic treatment

Minor misalignments in adults or teens

Hand in blue glove holding clear teeth aligner in front of a person in a blue shirt.

FAQ

  • Are aligners as effective as braces?

    For mild to moderate cases, aligners can be just as effective as braces when worn as directed. They’re ideal for patients seeking a discreet, flexible option.

  • How long will I need to wear my aligners?

    Most patients wear aligners for 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case and consistency of use.

  • Do I need to wear aligners all day?

    Yes — for the best results, aligners should be worn 20–22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, brushing, and flossing.

  • What happens if I lose an aligner?

    Contact our clinic right away. We’ll advise whether to move to your next set or replace the lost aligner.

  • How long do I need to wear a retainer after treatment?

    Retention is a lifelong process. The first 12 months are critical, and Dr. Wong will recommend a plan to maintain your perfect smile long-term.

Schedule a Consultation

Discover your best smile — your way. Contact SW Orthodontics in Alexandra Hills today to arrange a consultation and explore whether aligners, retainers, or hybrid treatments are right for you.