What to expect at your aligner attachment bonding appointment
Most aligner cases will require attachments. You might be wondering what exactly they are and what the appointment involves. Here's everything you need to know!
What are attachments?
Attachments are small, tooth-coloured bumps made from dental composite that are bonded directly onto your teeth. They act like handles for your aligners — giving them something to grip onto so they can move your teeth more precisely and effectively. Without them, certain tooth movements simply wouldn't be possible with aligners alone.
They are matched to the colour of your teeth and are generally not noticeable in everyday life — most people won't even know you have them!
Before your appointment
Brush and floss thoroughly before coming in
The appointment typically takes 30–60 minutes depending on how many attachments are being placed
You do not need to fast beforehand — but have a meal before you come as eating immediately after can be slightly uncomfortable while you get used to the new sensations
What happens during the appointment
Cleaning and preparing your teeth — your teeth are cleaned and lightly etched to help the composite bond securely
Placing the template — a clear template is used to position each attachment in exactly the right location on the right tooth — precision is everything here
Applying the composite — tooth-coloured composite resin is applied through the template onto each tooth
Curing the composite — a blue curing light hardens each attachment in place — completely safe and painless
Removing the template and finishing — the template is removed and any rough edges are smoothed. Your dentist will check each attachment before you're done
Fitting your first aligner — your first set of aligners will be placed to check that they seat correctly over the attachments
What to expect afterwards
Your mouth may feel slightly different and unfamiliar for the first few days as you adjust to the attachments
Aligners may feel slightly tighter or harder to remove with attachments than without — this is normal and you'll get used to it quickly. An aligner removal tool is highly recommended!
Some patients experience minor gum or cheek irritation where attachments are in contact with soft tissue — this usually settles within 1–2 weeks
Attachments may occasionally catch on food or feel rough to the tongue — this also settles quickly as you adjust
Caring for your attachments
Brush gently but thoroughly around each attachment — food and plaque can accumulate around them
Avoid very hard and sticky foods that could dislodge attachments
If an attachment falls off, do not panic — contact your dentist at your next appointment and they will replace it. If multiple fall off, contact sooner
Do not attempt to remove or pick at attachments yourself
Need some product recommendations?
💡 Dr Watt's tip: Attachments can make your aligner feel tighter and harder to remove at first — especially for your very first set. Don't be discouraged! An aligner removal tool makes a world of difference. Give yourself a few days to get the hang of it and it becomes second nature very quickly. 😊
