Clear Aligners — Invisalign, Spark & Angel Aligners

We offer three clear aligner systems at DentalCare Carnegie, giving us the flexibility to match the right technology to each patient's needs and budget. All three work on the same principle — a series of custom-made, virtually invisible removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into position — but each has its own strengths.

Because the aligners are removable, there are no food restrictions during treatment. You simply take them out to eat and drink, brush your teeth, and put them back in. Appointments are typically every 6–8 weeks to monitor progress and issue your next sets of aligners.

Invisalign is the world's most widely used clear aligner system, with decades of clinical data behind it. It uses SmartTrack material and a sophisticated digital treatment planning tool (ClinCheck) that lets you and your dentist preview your projected tooth movements before treatment even begins. Invisalign is suitable for a broad range of cases — from minor corrections to more complex tooth movements — and is available for both adults and teenagers (Invisalign Teen includes compliance indicators and replacement aligners for lost trays).

Spark is a premium clear aligner system known for its exceptional clarity — the aligners are made from TruGEN material, which is considered one of the clearest and most stain-resistant aligner materials available. Spark aligners are also trimmed to follow the natural contour of the gum line, which many patients find more comfortable. For patients who want the most discreet possible appearance throughout treatment, Spark is an excellent choice.

Angel Aligners are a high-quality clear aligner option that offers a cost-effective pathway to straighter teeth without compromising on results. They're well suited to patients with mild to moderate alignment concerns who want an effective, affordable alternative to the premium systems.

Your dentist will assess your teeth, bite, and goals and recommend which system is the best fit for your situation — taking into account the complexity of your case, your lifestyle, and your budget. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, and we'll always give you an honest recommendation rather than defaulting to the most expensive option.

Fixed Braces — Metal, Ceramic & Lingual

Metal braces use brackets and wires to apply consistent pressure to move teeth precisely, and are often the most efficient option for significant crowding, bite correction, or more involved tooth movements.

Ceramic braces work in the same way but use tooth-coloured brackets for a less noticeable look.

Lingual braces are fitted to the inside surface of the teeth, making them completely hidden from view — an option favoured by adults who need the effectiveness of fixed braces with no visible hardware.

What If I Need Fixed Braces?

We don't place fixed braces at DentalCare Carnegie, but we work closely with a trusted network of orthodontists and will refer you directly to the right person for your needs.

We think it's important that you see us first. Before any referral, your dentist will carry out a thorough assessment — examining your teeth, bite, and jaw, and taking any X-rays needed — so you arrive at your orthodontist appointment well-prepared, with a clear picture of your situation already established. We'll also discuss whether any preparatory work such as extractions needs to be completed beforehand, which we can carry out here in-house.

Orthodontics and Extractions

Some orthodontic treatment plans require extractions before treatment begins. When there isn't enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to align correctly, removing specific teeth — typically the premolars — creates the room needed for the remaining teeth to move into their ideal positions. If extractions are recommended as part of your plan, we can take care of these here at DentalCare Carnegie, so you're not being sent to multiple different clinics.

Retainers — Keeping Your Results

Once active orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers are essential. Without them, teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their original positions — particularly in the months immediately after treatment.

Retainers are custom-made to hold your teeth in their new positions. Most patients wear them full-time initially, then transition to nights only long-term. We can provide and manage your retainers here at our Carnegie clinic, keeping your care consistent. Wearing your retainer as directed is the single most important thing you can do to protect your orthodontic results.

What Does the Process Look Like?

Step 1 — Consultation at DentalCare Carnegie
Your dentist assesses your teeth, bite, and jaw, takes X-rays if needed, and discusses your goals. We'll talk you through whether Invisalign is suitable for your case, or whether fixed braces via one of our orthodontic partners would be more appropriate — and why.

Step 2 — Treatment begins
If you're proceeding with Invisalign, your aligners are ordered and treatment starts here at our clinic. If fixed braces are the better option, we'll refer you to the right orthodontist and coordinate any preparatory work needed beforehand.

Step 3 — Completion and retention
Once your teeth reach their final positions, retainers are fitted. Whether your active treatment was carried out here or with an orthodontic partner, we're here for your long-term care and follow-up.