--- title: "How do invisible aligners work? A step-by-step guide" description: "How invisible aligners work: what they are, how they move your teeth, the step-by-step process and how long it takes. A clear guide from Smile Experts, a dental clinic in Polanco, Mexico City." canonical: https://smileexperts.mx/blog-alineadores-como-funcionan-en.html og_image: https://smileexperts.mx/img/al2.jpg language: en last_modified: 2026-09-18 crawl_date: 2026-09-19 author: Equipo clínico de Smile Experts publisher: Smile Experts --- Aligners # How do invisible aligners work? A step-by-step guide By the Smile Experts clinical team · September 18, 2026 · 7 min read ![Person placing a clear invisible aligner](img/al2.webp) **Invisible aligners** are clear, custom-made trays that move your teeth little by little into their ideal position. Here we explain, step by step, how they work and what to expect at each stage. ## What are invisible aligners? They are trays made of clear, medical-grade plastic that fit your teeth. Each set is designed to produce a small movement; by switching them on a set schedule, your teeth move gradually and in a controlled way toward the position planned by your orthodontist. ## How do they move teeth? Each aligner applies light, constant pressure on specific teeth. That force stimulates the bone around the root so the tooth relocates little by little. That is why it is normal to feel some pressure in the first days of each set: it means they are working. Sometimes small *attachments* (tooth-colored dots) are placed to achieve more precise movements. ## The process, step by step 1. **Assessment and 3D scan.** We review your case and digitize your mouth with an intraoral scanner, with no uncomfortable pastes. 2. **Digital plan.** The orthodontist designs the movement tooth by tooth and you can see a simulation of the result before starting. 3. **Custom manufacturing.** Your aligner sets are produced with CAD/CAM technology. 4. **Wear and changes.** You wear each set about 22 hours a day and change it every 1 to 2 weeks, according to your plan. 5. **Check-ups.** You come in for in-person reviews to confirm everything is progressing as planned. 6. **Retention.** When you finish, retainers keep the result. ## How long does treatment take? It depends on the complexity of your case. Many mild to moderate crowding or spacing cases resolve in 4 to 9 months, though more complex cases can take longer. A realistic estimate is set at your assessment. ## Advantages of aligners - They are nearly invisible and discreet. - They are removable: you take them out to eat and for hygiene. - There are no forbidden foods. - 3D planning lets you see the expected result before you begin. ## Aligners or braces? There is no single answer: **both treatments are effective** and the best option depends on your diagnosis. Aligners stand out for their esthetics and comfort; braces are very versatile, even in complex cases, and do not depend on you remembering to wear them. What matters is that a specialist assesses your case and explains what best suits your goals, esthetics and budget. You can read our full comparison in [aligners vs. braces](blog-alineadores-vs-brackets-en.html). ## Who should supervise the treatment? Orthodontics moves your teeth permanently, so it is best handled by an orthodontist with in-person follow-up. Unlike remote aligner apps, a clinic checks your oral health, adjusts the plan if your case needs it, and looks after both your result and your health. ## Frequently asked questions ### Do aligners hurt? You may feel light pressure in the first days of each set; it is usually mild and temporary. ### How many hours a day should I wear them? About 22 hours a day. You only remove them to eat, drink (except water) and for hygiene. ### Will they work for my case? Most mild to moderate crowding and spacing cases, yes; more complex cases are assessed individually. It is confirmed at your assessment. ### Ready to learn about your case? Book an assessment with a 3D scan and discover, step by step, what aligners can do for your smile. 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