Your Complete GoClear Treatment Journey
Starting orthodontic treatment is a big decision. Knowing exactly what to expect at each stage makes the journey smoother and more exciting. Here's your step-by-step guide to the GoClear experience.
Step 1: Free Smile Consultation
Your journey begins with a free consultation with a GoClear-certified orthodontist. During this appointment, your doctor will:
- Examine your teeth, gums, and bite
- Take photographs and X-rays if needed
- Discuss your smile goals and any concerns
- Confirm your candidacy for clear aligner treatment
- Provide an initial treatment estimate
Step 2: Digital 3D Scan
Using a state-of-the-art intraoral scanner, your doctor captures a precise 3D model of your teeth. This replaces the messy traditional dental impressions. The scan is fast (under 5 minutes), comfortable, and provides incredibly accurate digital models.
Step 3: Treatment Planning & Preview
Using the 3D scan data, GoClear's expert team creates your personalised treatment plan using proprietary software. You get to see a digital simulation showing exactly how your teeth will move throughout treatment — and what your final smile will look like — before the first aligner is manufactured!
Step 4: Aligner Manufacturing
Once you approve your treatment plan, your complete set of custom aligners is manufactured using medical-grade, BPA-free thermoplastic material. Each aligner is precisely shaped to guide your teeth through the planned movements. Manufacturing takes approximately 2–3 weeks.
Step 5: Receiving Your Aligners
Your doctor will receive your full set of aligners and schedule a delivery appointment. At this appointment, they will:
- Check that the first aligners fit properly
- Place any attachments (tooth-coloured bumps that help with complex movements)
- Explain the wear schedule and care instructions
- Answer all your questions
Step 6: Active Treatment Phase
This is where the magic happens. You wear each aligner set for 10–14 days (as directed by your doctor), for at least 20–22 hours per day. Your teeth will gradually move according to the plan. You visit your doctor every 6–8 weeks for check-ups and to ensure treatment is on track.
Step 7: Refinements (If Needed)
Occasionally, additional refinement aligners are needed to achieve the perfect final position. This is completely normal and is included in GoClear's treatment. Your doctor will take new scans and order refinements if required.
Step 8: Retention Phase
Once treatment is complete, you'll receive retainers to maintain your new smile. This is a crucial phase — teeth can shift back without retainers. Typically you'll wear retainers full-time for 3–6 months, then nights only indefinitely.
Your Smile, Transformed
From first consultation to final smile reveal, the GoClear journey is designed to be transparent, comfortable, and empowering. Most patients complete their treatment in 6–12 months and describe the experience as one of the best investments they've made in themselves.
Ready to start your journey? Find a GoClear certified doctor near you today.