Frequently Asked Questions
See answers to our most frequently asked questions. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us here.
Suitability
Who is suitable for aligners?
Aligners are suitable for those with mild to moderate dental issues like:
- Crooked or crowded teeth,
- Gaps
- Spaces
- Certain bite problems such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
They are suitable for those with healthy teeth and gums, as any existing issues like cavities or gum disease need to be treated before using aligners.
Who isn’t suitable for aligners?
Usually those with severe crowding or bite problems such as a large underbite or overbite will need to consult an orthodontist in person.
I have a permanent retainer (wire) fixed to my teeth. Can I still be treated?
We request that anyone wanting to undergo aligner treatment have their permanent retainer removed. The aligners are unable to move your teeth if the wire is holding them in place.
Removing a permanent retainer is usually a simple and painless procedure.
Those who are doing single arch and have the wire retainer on the opposite arch will not need to have it removed.
What age should I be?
Anyone under 18 years old will require parental consent, and we must make sure all of your baby teeth have come out before hand.
Can I still have dental work done throughout my treatment?
Yes - the usual checkup and clean is completely fine (and recommended) to have every 6 months or throughout your aligner treatment.
I have a fractured tooth. Can I still use aligners?
This depends on the severity of the chip/crack - so please contact us with some photos if you are unsure!
What are attachments? Will I need them?
Attachments are small, tooth-coloured buttons of resin that are placed on the teeth. When an aligner tray is worn, the attachments fit into the indentations in the aligner, acting as a handle for the aligner tray. This provides more control over tooth movements than normal, and usually results in more accuracy when it comes to achieving the treatment plan, as well as potentially a faster overall treatment time and the ability to achieve certain movements that wouldn't otherwise be possible.
During our pre-treatment questionnaire, we give you the chance to opt in to including attachments in your case.
I'm looking at getting a bridge or crown. Should I do aligners first?
We recommend getting the bridge or crown after the aligner treatment is finished.
If you have already gotten a bridge, we will request an x-ray so the treatment plan can be designed with it in mind.
I've had a dental implant. Can I still use aligners?
We generally recommend waiting at least 3 months after getting a dental implant before starting aligner treatment.
Please consult with your local dentist about this as this may be case-specific.
I have large gaps/missing teeth. Can I still use aligners?
Absolutely. The treatment plan can be designed accordingly to your needs - whether you'd like to get an implant in the future or close the gap.
I have wisdom teeth that need to be removed. Should I remove them before starting treatment?
If your wisdom teeth are causing pain, we recommend having them removed before starting treatment. Once your gums have fully healed, we can move forward with realigning your smile. However, if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing any discomfort, removal isn’t necessary, and we can proceed with your treatment as planned.
Getting Started with an Impression Kit
What happens when I order?
We'll send your impression kit out right away. Although it includes a step-by-step guide, we will be here to assist if you need help!
What comes in the impression kit?
Here's a list of what is included in your impression kit!
1. Putty
The blue and white putty will be mixed when you're about to take an impression. Please read the entire User's Guide carefully before beginning your impressions.
2. Upper & Lower Trays
These trays, upper and lower, will be used to take your impressions and will need to be sent back in the box to us.
3. Gloves
To be worn while taking your impressions.
4. Smile Stretcher
This tool will be used to take your initial before photos and your check-in photos. Please keep it with you throughout the entire process!
5. User's Guide
It's very important to read our guide carefully and follow the instructions inside. These impressions will be used to make your aligners. - so they must be done correctly.
What happens if my impressions aren’t good enough?
If our lab determines the impressions are not of high enough quality, we will send you a replacement kit (free of charge) along with what we found wrong with your previous impressions - in order to minimise the chance of it happening again!
Why were my impressions rejected?
There could be a number of reasons why your impressions were rejected. Sometimes there is not enough anatomy captured of the palate, or there is not a clear outline of the teeth. The impression should always capture every detail of the teeth and gums.
If your impressions were rejected, we will notify you and tell you what went wrong with your impression before sending you a replacement free of charge.
What happens if I’m determined not suitable for aligners?
If it is determined that you aren't suitable, a full refund is provided straight away.
Do I need to pay to return my completed impressions?
Yes, however we can deduct this as a refund if you provide a photo of the receipt!
Getting Started In-Clinic
What happens when I order?
We'll refer you to a local dentist in your area to have your scan taken.
Once we receive these, we'll create your 3D treatment plan for you to review. After that your aligners are fabricated and shipped to your door with a few extras.
After getting my scans done, how long will it take for me to start my aligner treatment?
After having your initial scan it should take around 2-3 weeks for you to receive your aligners and start treatment.
What happens if I’m determined not suitable for aligners?
If it is determined that you aren't suitable, a full refund is provided straight away.
Do I need to pay for my scan?
Yes, these are paid for out of pocket. The 3D scan usually costs around $100 depending on the clinic.
Aligner Treatment
How long will it take?
On average, most people complete their treatment within 4-6 months. However, some minor adjustments can be achieved in as little as 3 months, while more complex cases may take up to 8-10 months.
Regular wear and following your treatment plan closely will help ensure the best and quickest results.
How do aligners work?
Each aligner tray is slightly different, applying gentle pressure to your teeth. During the 2 weeks that you wear each tray, they slowly rotate or move your teeth into the correct position. Then, you switch to the next tray in the series, which continues to move your teeth a little more.
This process of changing trays and wearing them over time corrects your bite and aligns your teeth.
Do the aligners hurt?
Sometimes changing trays can be slightly uncomfortable for the first hour of wear as your teeth adjust to them, however there should be not pain throughout treatment.
Can I see my final result before starting treatment?
Yes! You'll be able to see a 3D simulation of how your teeth will move into alignment and approve it before moving ahead.
Who creates my treatment plan and overlooks my case?
Jawology partners with dental and orthodontic professionals with over 15 years of experience to plan as well as monitor your treatment.
What are the aligners made of?
Our Clear Aligners are made from BPA-free Zendura™ FLX, chosen for its superior properties:
- Firm yet gentle
- Comfortable to wear
- Invisible throughout treatment
Zendura™ FLX outperforms most commercial plastics, offering elasticity that allows it to recover from movement or damage. The elastomeric layer of Zendura™ FLX ensures our aligners can adapt and mold to your mouth, generating lower initial force but achieving greater tooth movement over time compared to standard thermoplastics.
What are refinements?
Refinements are additional sets of aligners provided to you after the initial treatment to further adjust and perfect the alignment of your teeth. We provide these free of charge if they are needed.
How does Jawology's clear aligners compare to other brands?
- Our turnaround time is very fast, meaning you'll be able to start treatment a lot sooner than with other brands.
- Our expert team of partner orthodontists have over 15 years of experience.
- We ensure top tier aligner quality while offering at an affordable price.
How often do I have to wear the aligners?
You should aim to wear your aligners for 20 hours each day - taking them out only to eat or drink. This helps to ensure your treatment moves along smoothly.
How often do I have to change my aligner trays?
Aligner trays are usually changed every 2 weeks - however if there is any change to this we will mention it in your treatment plan.
What if I'm not happy with my results?
In the unlikely event that your end results do not match the treatment plan you approved, we will provide extra aligners free of charge to ensure you reach your desired result.
Can I eat and drink with aligners in?
Drinking water with your aligners in is completely fine - however they should be taken out before consuming any hot water or food.
I've lost one or more aligner trays. What do I do?
If you have lost any of your aligners please contact us immediately and let us know the trays you lost (each tray has a number on it's designated pouch).
Payment
Do you offer payment plans?
We currently offer AfterPay - which allows you to pay in 4 instalments. We are actively working on offering more options!
Are there any additional costs for treatment?
There is a small difference in the total cost depending on how you choose to get started. The $1,295 is set in stone no matter how many aligners your case requires, or if refinements (extra aligners) are needed to complete your case.
At Home - $1,295AUD total (which includes the impression kit and the entire aligner package as well as your return postage when sending the impression moulds back to us)
In Clinic - $1,295AUD + est. $100 that the dental clinic you visit will charge for your intra-oral scan (includes entire aligner package) Overall, the At Home (impression kit) route is about $100 cheaper since there isn't that cost of getting your scan done. The In Clinic option is slightly faster however so there is a small trade-off.
Attachments are usually an extra $200 to have placed at the dentist if you opt to them.
What currency do you charge in?
Please select your currency of choice with the country/region selector at the bottom of the website.
Will my insurance cover treatment?
Dental/health Insurance will not cover the treatment itself, however it may cover your initial appointment to have a scan taken. Please check prior to booking.
Due to the custom fit nature of clear aligners, we are unable to refund cases. that have been manufactured.
What is your refund policy?
If you take your impressions or have your scan done and it turns out you are not suitable for the treatment, we will provide a full refund immediately.
Shipping
How long will my aligners take to ship?
After your treatment pack is manufactured, it should take around 2-3 weeks for you to receive your aligners and the extras that come with it!
Night Tape
Will it stay on during the night?
The adhesive on our Night Tape ensures a night-long use, as long as the skin is rinsed and dry. Please do not use any moisturiser on the area before application of the Night Tape.
What's wrong with mouth breathing?
Mouth breathing can lead to various health issues, including dry mouth, bad breath, dental problems, and disrupted sleep patterns. It bypasses the natural filtration and humidification process of the nose, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and reducing oxygen uptake efficiency. Mouth breathing contributes to snoring, sleep apnea, and overall poor sleep quality.
What if my nose becomes blocked during the night?
In a worst-case scenario where the nose becomes totally blocked, it has in-built alarm system that detects low oxygen levels and can wake you up instantly. Additionally, our cactus-silk fabric is breathable, allowing oxygen to pass through.
If nasal congestion persists, or is severe, do not use the tape and consider using saline spray or nasal strips to clear the blockage. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities.
Will it irritate my skin?
Our tape is gentle and suitable for those with sensitive skin types. A slow removal in the morning is recommended.
I have lots of facial hair. Will it still work?
Yes, our tape is facial hair-friendly and can be used effectively even on those with beards & moustaches.
Will it hurt to remove it in the morning?
No, our tape is designed to be gentle on the skin and should not cause discomfort when removed in the morning. If it does, pull it off very slowly to ensure a comfortable removal.
Is the Night Tape PFA free?
Yes. Our night tape is free of any PFAs.
Need more help?
Let us know your questions, thoughts and ideas via the Contact page. Our support team will get back to you as soon as possible.