How do the trays move teeth?
The shape of each tray in a planned series applies targeted forces. This allows suitable tooth movements to take place gradually.
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How can clear trays move teeth?
Aligners are removable clear trays used to correct tooth position. A planned series moves suitable teeth step by step. Treatment requires an examination, regular reviews and subsequent stabilisation of the new tooth positions.
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Each aligner has a planned shape
An aligner does more than simply fit over the teeth: its shape applies targeted forces. A coordinated series can gradually produce planned tooth movements.
Discreet does not mean unsupervised
Examination and planning establish suitability. Reviews check progress. Wear time, changes of aligner and any small attachments on the teeth are planned individually.
After moving comes maintaining
Teeth can move again after correction. Treatment is therefore usually followed by a retention phase: a retainer helps stabilise the new positions.
At a glance
Which starting situations are suitable?
Suitability depends on tooth positions, the jaw and the movements needed. An examination establishes whether aligners are sufficient or other or additional methods are necessary.
What does treatment involve?
Planning and reviews determine wear time, changes and any attachments, among other things. Active movement is usually followed by retention to stabilise the result.
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Often confused
Aligner or retainer?
An active aligner is intended to move teeth in a planned way. A retainer is intended to maintain their new positions. A similar appearance does not mean the same purpose.
Quick answers
Are aligners suitable for every tooth alignment problem?
No. Which movements are possible and appropriate depends on the teeth, jaw and initial findings. Some situations require other or additional methods.
What are the small raised shapes on some teeth?
They may be attachments: tooth-coloured shapes bonded to the teeth to help the aligner apply forces more precisely. Whether they are needed depends on the planned movement.
Can I simply change to the next aligner sooner?
Changes follow the treatment plan and reviews. Speeding up the schedule on your own can interfere with the planned progress.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Which tooth movements would be appropriate in my situation, and how would the positions be stabilised afterwards?
Her approach also considers tooth alignment in relation to restorative planning. Whether aligners are suitable is assessed from the findings.
We can discuss your wishes for your tooth alignment and the possibilities of aligner treatment in person.
Book an aligner consultationChoose an appointment on DoctolibLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Aligner
- A clear, removable tray for planned orthodontic tooth movement.
- Attachment
- A tooth-coloured shape bonded to a tooth that can help an aligner transmit forces.
- Retention
- The stabilisation phase after active tooth movement, using a removable or fixed retainer, for example.
Know the difference
The active phase aims to change tooth position. Retention aims to stabilise the result. A tray from the active series is not automatically suitable as a long-term retainer.
Sources for further learning
Sources and context
Editorial research: 22 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.