When is it discussed?
When a progress review identifies a need for further correction.
← All explanationsRefinement
Why might another set of aligners be needed?
Refinement is an additional correction phase using further aligners. Following a progress review, the plan may be adjusted if some tooth movements or the bite have not reached the intended position. A digital preview is a plan, not a promise of the actual result.
For training & practice ↓
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Compare plan and progress
The actual tooth position is compared with the treatment goal. The bite and the health of teeth and gums also matter.
Plan further steps selectively
Depending on the findings, new records or a scan and another aligner series may be appropriate. Movement type, biological response and appliance use can influence progress.
Then maintain the position
Further active correction is different from subsequent retention. The number, duration and cost of an additional phase are clarified for the individual treatment plan.
At a glance
What informs the decision?
Current tooth position, bite, oral health and a meaningful remaining treatment goal.
What should be clear beforehand?
The planned steps, reviews, expected work and any additional costs.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available below.
Read the film text in English
Compare plan and progress
The actual tooth position is compared with the treatment goal. The bite and the health of teeth and gums also matter.
Plan further steps selectively
Depending on the findings, new records or a scan and another aligner series may be appropriate. Movement type, biological response and appliance use can influence progress.
Then maintain the position
Further active correction is different from subsequent retention. The number, duration and cost of an additional phase are clarified for the individual treatment plan.
Often confused
Refinement or retainer?
Refinement aligners continue active correction. A retainer then mainly maintains the position already achieved.
Quick answers
Does refinement automatically mean a treatment error?
No. Planned and achieved tooth movements can differ. The reason for an adjustment must be assessed from the actual progress.
Is refinement always included?
That cannot be promised generally. The scope of treatment and possible costs of another phase should be clarified in the individual plan beforehand.
Can I skip trays to finish sooner?
Tray sequence and changes are agreed with the treating practice. Skipping trays independently is not a substitute for a progress review.
At the practice
For a personal conversation
An editorially suggested question for a conversation with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Which specific movement is a further aligner series intended to achieve in my case?
Understanding the phases of an aligner plan helps make the next steps clearer.
Discuss an aligner planAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Progress review
- Assessment of how treatment is actually developing.
- Planned tooth movement
- The position change intended for a treatment step, not a guaranteed result.
- Retention
- Stabilisation following active tooth correction.
Make the distinction
Refinement aligners continue active correction. A retainer then mainly maintains the position already achieved.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.