{"id":8178,"date":"2026-06-01T09:40:45","date_gmt":"2026-06-01T07:40:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/alineadores-dentales-son-para-todos\/"},"modified":"2026-06-03T12:13:25","modified_gmt":"2026-06-03T10:13:25","slug":"clear-aligners-are-they-suitable-for-everyone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/clear-aligners-are-they-suitable-for-everyone\/","title":{"rendered":"Clear Aligners: Are they suitable for everyone?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Clear aligners: are they suitable for everyone?<\/h1>\n

Clear dental aligners<\/strong> have become one of the most in-demand options in modern orthodontics. They are discreet, comfortable, removable, and allow many types of dental misalignment to be corrected without the need for visible braces.<\/span><\/p>\n

But an important question is: are they suitable for everyone?<\/strong> The short answer is: not always. Aligners can work very well, but they require a proper diagnosis, careful planning and, above all, a high level of patient compliance.<\/p>\n

At Cl\u00ednica Llobell, we offer clear aligner orthodontic treatment using transparent aligner trays that are changed progressively to correct tooth position. The clinic also includes an orthodontics and Invisalign specialist within its team.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/3″][vc_single_image image=”8061″ img_size=”500×500″ add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” css=””][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/3″][vc_single_image image=”8058″ img_size=”500×500″ add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” css=””][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/3″][vc_single_image image=”7289″ img_size=”500×500″ add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” css=””][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1780163805670{background-color: #FFFFFF !important;}”][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Are all aligner brands the same?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

There are different brands of dental aligners, such as Invisalign, Spark<\/strong> and other options available on the market. They are not exactly the same, as each system uses its own materials, digital technology, planning software and clinical protocols.<\/p>\n

However, the objective is very similar: to move teeth progressively using a series of custom-made transparent aligner trays.<\/p>\n

Beyond the brand, what truly matters is that the treatment is correctly indicated, carefully planned and properly monitored by the dentist or orthodontist. A good aligner system does not replace a sound diagnosis.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

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“There are many brands, such as Spark or Invisalign. Are they the same? They are very similar. They work with different developments and technologies to achieve the goal of giving you a nice smile, but yes, they can all work well for you.”<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dr. Andr\u00e9s Llobell<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Do aligners require more oral hygiene?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Yes, and this is a crucial point.<\/p>\n

With aligners, you wear a plastic tray covering the teeth for many hours a day. This means that if the teeth are not properly cleaned before inserting the aligner, food debris, bacterial plaque or sugars can become trapped against the enamel.<\/p>\n

For this reason, oral hygiene must be particularly rigorous during treatment. It is important to brush your teeth after eating, clean the aligners thoroughly, and avoid putting them back in if they are dirty. Invisalign also recommends brushing the teeth before reinserting the aligners and cleaning the trays with lukewarm water and appropriate products.<\/p>\n

Poor oral hygiene during treatment can increase the risk of tooth decay, enamel staining, bad breath and gum inflammation.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

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“Do aligners require a higher level of oral hygiene control? Yes, definitely. You will be wearing a plastic tray covering all of your enamel, trapping saliva against the teeth. If the aligner is not clean, or if your teeth are not perfectly clean when you put it in, the likelihood of developing cavities or enamel staining is significantly higher.”<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dr. Andr\u00e9s Llobell<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Do they work in the same way as braces?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Braces work 24 hours a day because they are fixed to the teeth. Aligners can also work for many hours a day, but with one key difference: they depend on the patient.<\/strong><\/p>\n

For treatment to be effective, aligners must be worn for most of the day. Invisalign recommends a wear time of 20 to 22 hours<\/strong> per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.<\/p>\n

If the patient removes them frequently, wears them only at night, or stops using them for several days, treatment will slow down. It may even regress. Orthodontic movement requires a constant, controlled force for teeth to move as planned.<\/p>\n

In simple terms: if you are not consistent, aligners are not the best option.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

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“Braces work 24 hours a day. Do aligners do the same? Yes, they do\u2014but what will never work is putting them in and taking them out repeatedly, for example when you are with friends or for similar reasons. In those cases, aligners do not work effectively. If you stop wearing them for a week, you may lose two weeks of progress\u2014it really is that simple. Orthodontic treatment requires consistency.”<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dr. Andr\u00e9s Llobell<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

In which cases do we most often recommend aligners?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Aligners can be a very good option for many adult patients, particularly those seeking a discreet treatment that fits easily with their professional or social lifestyle.<\/span><\/p>\n

They can also achieve good results in certain cases of open bite, crowding, spacing between teeth or minor malpositions, provided the case has been properly assessed.<\/p>\n

They are especially convenient for people who work in public-facing roles, who wish to avoid the appearance of braces, or who value the ability to remove them for eating and maintaining normal oral hygiene.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

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“In which cases would we recommend aligners more? The best results are seen in open bites, where the upper front teeth do not meet the lower teeth, as is well established. They are also well suited to adults who are frequently in public-facing roles.And when would we choose braces? In cases where greater force is required, and in situations where the patient\u2014despite maintaining good oral hygiene\u2014prefers to avoid the inconvenience of always having to carry a case to store the aligners when eating. This can be particularly noticeable for people who often eat out.”<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dr. Andr\u00e9s Llobell<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

When can braces be the better option?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Braces remain an excellent treatment option and, in some cases, they may even be preferable.<\/p>\n

We tend to consider them particularly when more complex tooth movements are required, when greater force is needed, or when we anticipate that a patient may struggle to maintain the level of compliance required with aligners.<\/span><\/p>\n

They can also be more practical for people who frequently eat out, who do not want to worry about removing and replacing aligners, or who prefer not to carry a storage case at all times.<\/p>\n

With braces, there is no risk of forgetting them on a napkin, leaving them at home, or wearing them for fewer hours than necessary.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

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“Are there aspects of this type of treatment we consider problematic? <\/span><\/i><\/span>Yes. All clinics have encountered cases where, after some time, it has been necessary to switch to fixed braces. The reason is straightforward: lack of patient compliance. Anything that can be removed and put in a pocket requires a degree of mental effort and discipline.Consistency and commitment are essential. If you are not very consistent, it is better to opt for braces, as this can save both time and money in the long run.” <\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dr. Andr\u00e9s Llobell<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Are aligners more expensive?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

In general, they can be more expensive than other orthodontic treatments.<\/p>\n

This is due to the technology involved, digital treatment planning, the manufacture of the aligner trays and the use of specialised brands, all of which represent a higher cost for the clinic. In many cases, these companies are not based in Spain, which also influences the final treatment price.<\/p>\n

However, the cost will always depend on the complexity of the case, the expected duration of treatment and the specific needs of each patient.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

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“Is it true that they are more expensive? Yes. The cost for clinics is significantly higher. The companies behind this technology are not based in Spain, and this is reflected in the final price.”<\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dr. Andr\u00e9s Llobell<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

What can go wrong with aligner treatment?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

What we most frequently see is not that the system fails, but that the patient does not wear it as prescribed.<\/span><\/p>\n

If aligners are not worn for the recommended number of hours, the teeth do not follow the intended movement. As a result, the trays stop fitting properly, treatment is prolonged and, in some cases, it may be necessary to switch to braces in order to complete treatment correctly.<\/span><\/p>\n

For this reason, we are clear: aligners require commitment. If you are consistent, they can be a comfortable, aesthetic and effective option. If you know you will be removing them repeatedly, it is better to consider an alternative from the outset.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Do you need to wear retainers afterwards?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Yes. After orthodontic treatment, whether with braces or aligners, retainers are necessary.<\/p>\n

Retainers help keep the teeth in their new position while the bone and surrounding tissues stabilise. In addition, teeth can shift over time, which is why the retention phase is an essential part of treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists notes that retainers are required after orthodontic treatment to maintain the achieved results.<\/p>\n

Typically, upper and lower retainers are prescribed, and the duration of wear depends on each individual case. They are usually particularly important during the initial period, after which night-time wear may be recommended as maintenance.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]\n

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“Do I have to wear a retainer afterwards? Yes. After both braces and aligner treatment, you will need to wear upper and lower retainers for at least one year, until the bone has stabilised.“<\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dr. Andr\u00e9s Llobell<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=””]\n

So, aligners: yes or no?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Dental aligners are an excellent option for many patients, but they are not suitable for everyone.<\/p>\n

They work very well when the case is properly indicated, when there is good clinical supervision, and when the patient complies with the required wear time and daily hygiene.<\/p>\n

If you are looking for a discreet, comfortable orthodontic option that fits into your daily routine, they can be an excellent alternative. However, if you do not want to be constantly removing, cleaning and reinserting them, braces may be a more practical option.<\/p>\n

At Cl\u00ednica Llobell, we can assess your case, study your bite and explain which treatment is best suited to you.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1780167780327{padding-top: 3% !important;}”][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=””] Clear aligners: are they suitable for everyone? Clear dental aligners have become one of the most in-demand options in modern orthodontics. They are discreet, comfortable, removable, and allow many types of dental misalignment to be corrected without the need for visible braces. But an important question is: are they suitable<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":8139,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[57],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8178","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles-en"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8178","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8178"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8178\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8195,"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8178\/revisions\/8195"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8139"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8178"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8178"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clinicallobell.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8178"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}