Glossary

Clear Aligners Glossary

Essential vocabulary for understanding clear aligner treatment — from the custom trays and digital planning software to bite issues and retention after treatment.

Clear Aligners

Transparent, removable orthodontic appliances that gradually straighten teeth.

Invisalign

A popular brand of clear aligners.

Attachments

Small, tooth-colored bumps that are bonded to teeth to help the aligners grip and move teeth more effectively.

Trays

(Also called "aligners") A series of custom-made, removable appliances worn over the teeth to gradually shift them into proper alignment.

Aligners

A series of custom-made aligners that are worn sequentially to move teeth into the desired position.

ClinCheck

Invisalign's software that creates a 3D simulation of the tooth movement plan.

Compliance

Wearing the aligners for the recommended amount of time each day (typically 20-22 hours).

Initial Consultation

The first appointment where the dentist or orthodontist evaluates your teeth and discusses treatment options.

Impressions

A mold taken of the prepared tooth to create a custom-made aligner (trays).

iTero

A brand of 3D intraoral scanner used to create digital impressions of teeth.

Refinements

Additional aligners provided after the initial treatment to fine-tune tooth position.

Retention

Wearing retainers after treatment to maintain the new tooth position.

Scanning

Creating a digital 3D model of your teeth using an intraoral scanner.

3D Imaging

Technology used to create a three-dimensional model of the teeth and jaws for treatment planning.

Crowding

When there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to align properly.

Malocclusion

Misalignment of the teeth or jaws.

Open Bite

When the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap when the mouth is closed.

Overbite

When the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively.

Overjet

When the upper front teeth protrude horizontally over the lower front teeth.

Spacing

Gaps or spaces between teeth.

Underbite

When the lower front teeth protrude in front of the upper front teeth.