How Do Clear Aligners Move Teeth? Benefits, Effectiveness & FAQs
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How Do Clear Aligners Move Teeth? Benefits, Effectiveness & FAQs

March 13, 2025

Clear aligners have revolutionised modern orthodontics, offering a nearly invisible and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces. But what's actually happening when one puts them on? Let us walk you through the fascinating science that makes this possible.

The Biology of Moving Teeth

Teeth aren't actually fixed permanently in place - they're held by periodontal ligaments that respond to gentle, consistent pressure. We like to compare this process to gently moulding clay rather than forcing movement. Clear aligners work with the body's natural processes, applying carefully controlled forces that guide teeth into proper alignment over time.

Your Personal Smile Journey

3D Teeth Scan Image

When one visits one of Zenyum's 600+ partner dental clinics across Asia, the dental team takes a detailed 3D scan of the mouth. This digital model becomes the blueprint for a personalised treatment plan.

Each aligner in the series is precisely crafted to apply subtle pressure exactly where needed. Patients switch to a new set approximately every two weeks, with each one moving teeth just a fraction closer to that confident smile they're looking for.

Why Many Professionals Recommend Zenyum

Zenyum Clear Aligners

With numerous aligner options emerging in the market, we stand out for several important reasons:

Thoughtfully Designed Materials

Our aligners are crafted from high-quality, BPA-free, medical-grade plastic that balances flexibility with strength. We have fine-tuned the material properties to apply optimal pressure while ensuring patients can comfortably wear them throughout the day. As one of the longest-standing Clear Aligner companies with multiple operations and licenses across Asia, we uphold rigorous quality standards, backed by ISO certification, to ensure safety and effectiveness in every set of aligners.

Stay Connected Through Technology

Zenyum Mobile App

Our ZenyumClear™ app isn't just a tracking tool - it's like having a treatment companion in one's pocket. Patients receive timely reminders for aligner changes and can document their transformation with photos. Our patients particularly appreciate having direct access to the care team when questions arise.

Real Expertise, Real Results

With hundreds of thousands of customers across Asia, our aligner treatments have been thoroughly tested. Unlike competitors and DIY options, every treatment is supervised by qualified dentists who monitor progress and make adjustments when necessary.

Transparent Value, No Hidden Costs

Getting started with us is a straightforward process. After doing your free Smile Check on Zenyum’s website, your journey begins with a consultation with a dentist to assess your smile, followed by a 3D scan and Xrays, before moving forward with your aligner journey and retainers to maintain that new smile. 

What to Expect in Your Zenyum Journey

Stage Purpose Cost (S$)
Consultation (includes physical assessment, X-ray & 3D scan) Assess your smile and suitability for treatment $150 to $200*
Refinement Scan at End of Treatment (if needed) Ensures the best possible fit and outcome $100 per scan
Retainers Maintain your new smile long-term $510 per 2 sets
$660 per 3 sets

*Prices are subject to change.
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Finding the Right Aligner Plan for You

Once your initial consultation and scans are complete, your treating dentist will recommend the most suitable ZenyumClear™ Aligners plan based on your dental needs. Each plan is designed for different levels of teeth movement, ensuring the best possible results for your smile.

Zenyum Clear Aligners Pricing
Zenyum Clear Aligners Pricing
Plan Price (S$) Average Treatment Duration Details
1 ZenyumClear™ $2,790 Approximately 7 Months
  • Mild to moderate cases
  • Does not move back teeth
  • Minimal or no attachments
  • No extractions required
2 ZenyumClear™ Plus $4,490 Approximately 10 Months
  • For mild to moderate cases
  • Can involve the movement of back teeth
  • Attachments on multiple teeth
  • Extractions if necessary
3 ZenyumClear™ Extra $5,090 Approximately 15 Months
  • For moderate cases
  • Involves the movement of all teeth
  • Attachments on multiple teeth
  • Extractions if necessary
4 ZenyumClear™ Teens $5,490 Approximately 10-15 Months
  • Tailored for Teenagers, age 13 onwards with fully developed permanent teeth
  • Fixes moderate to large gaps, rotations, crossbites, protrusions
  • Attachments on multiple teeth
  • Extractions if necessary

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Each plan varies based on the complexity of teeth movement, attachment requirements, and whether teeth extractions are required. Our team and your treating dentist will guide you through the best option for your smile journey.

Traditional orthodontic treatments or legacy Clear Aligner solutions often come with premium price tags. By streamlining the approach and negotiating special rates with your local dentists, We have made professional-grade treatment more accessible without compromising quality. Flexible payment options mean you can start your smile journey sooner, without any delays.

Is Zenyum Right for You?

Zenyum aligners effectively address nearly all kinds of conditions by now:

Zenyum Teeth Conditions
  • Crowded or crooked teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Mild to moderate bite issues
  • Mild to moderate malocclusions

For those with more complex needs, we may recommend ZenyumClear™ Plus or Extra, which provide advanced correction whilst maintaining the convenience of clear aligners.

Questions Frequently Asked by Patients

"How long until results appear?" Most treatments complete within 5 to 9 months, but you will start seeing results usually already within the first months, though timelines depend on specific needs.
"Will they hurt?" Patients likely feel some pressure when switching to a new set—that's actually a good sign they're working! This sensation typically fades within a few days as teeth adjust and is typically less painful compared to traditional braces.
"Can I eat and drink what I like?" The answer is Yes! Since ZenyumClear is fully removable, you can take out your aligners and just snack away to your heart’s content. You should not consume hot beverages or anything that can stain your aligners (such as red wine or coffee) while wearing them. Remember to put your aligners back in after your meal. 
"How should one care for them?" Simply rinse and gently brush with lukewarm water or use special cleaning tablets. We always advise our patients to avoid hot water since it can warp the material, and to remove aligners before eating or drinking anything besides water.
"What happens when treatment ends?" Teeth continuously move and whether you straightened your smile with Clear Aligners or traditional braces, you should wear retainers (mostly at night) after your treatment to avoid your teeth relapsing. Zenyum has simplified the reordering process through the app when replacements are needed.
"What if the results aren't what was expected?" Assuming aligners have been worn as directed, Zenyum works closely with dental partners to assess next steps and ensure patients achieve the best possible outcome. We provide free refinements within the treatment expiry period (ZenyumClear for 18 months, ZenyumPlus or Extra for 36 months). Customers will have to pay a SGD 100 fee to their treating dentist, whenever a re-scan of their teeth is required as part of refinements.

Ready to Transform Your Smile?

Zenyum's quick, FREE Smile Check takes just minutes to complete and helps determine if clear aligners are suitable for your needs. Why not take that first step toward your confidence journey today?

Start Your Journey Today

How to get started with Zenyum Aligners

Start your Smile Check

Answer a few questions, and take four teeth pictures. It only takes a few minutes!

Book an appointment

Receive a call from us to schedule your dentist appointment

Visit your dentist

You’ll have 3D scans and X-rays taken of your teeth by your dentist

Approve your plan

Give the green light for your Zenyum aligners to go into production after approved by your dentist.