At a glance
Who it is for
What happens
Visits and time
Cost
Learn how shape-memory aligner treatment is assessed and planned, including whether it suits your teeth.
Overview
Shape-memory aligners are clear, removable trays made from materials designed to return to a planned shape under specific conditions. How they work depends on the material and system, so your dentist will explain the exact appliance proposed for you.
At Tokyo Expat Dental, we assess your teeth, gums and bite before discussing an aligner system. Treatment time, comfort and results depend on your individual case; the material name alone cannot predict them.
Reasons to seek care
You may want to discuss this option for an alignment concern, a change after previous orthodontic treatment or to compare available aligner approaches. Suitability is determined by the teeth, gums, bite and treatment goals.
Some tooth movements are better suited to another appliance or a referral. Your dentist will explain the options for your case.
What care involves
Planning includes appropriate examination, scans or other records and a discussion of the specific material. Your dentist can explain how the aligners are made, which stages take place at the clinic and how to use and care for them.
Ask your dentist about the aligner system and material proposed for your care.
Follow the instructions supplied for your appliance. Do not heat, reshape or disinfect an aligner using advice for a different product.
Care process
Establish suitability
Your dentist assesses your oral health and the movement needed, including whether another approach would be more appropriate.
Identify the system
We explain the proposed material, treatment plan, evidence limitations and regulatory information.
Wear and monitor
You follow the prescribed wear and care instructions and attend reviews, where your dentist checks whether the plan needs adjustment.
Finish and retain
Together, we review the movement achieved, any refinement needed and the plan for retaining the result.
Your dentist will discuss the likely results and treatment time for your case.
Why patients choose Tokyo Expat Dental
Explained in English
Care planned with you
Instrument hygiene
Easy to reach
Risks and limitations
The general risks of orthodontic treatment include soreness, irritation, hygiene-related decay or gum problems, root changes, unwanted bite changes and relapse. Material sensitivity, fit, breakage and cleaning requirements also need consideration for the selected appliance.
Long-term evidence varies between systems, and findings about one material may not apply to another. Your dentist will explain the evidence and limitations for the system proposed; further treatment or a different approach may be needed.
Alternatives
Alternatives can include a conventional clear-aligner system, fixed braces, referral or no orthodontic treatment. Your dentist can help you compare each approach against your treatment goals and the evidence available for it.
Fees and treatment time
We will explain the suitable options and provide a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate before treatment begins.
Express (up to 5 stages, single arch): ¥199,900
Lite (up to 10 stages, both arches): ¥349,900
Moderate (up to 20 stages, both arches): ¥549,900
Comprehensive (up to 40 stages, both arches): ¥799,900
Comprehensive orthodontic examination: ¥29,900
First refinement (additional aligners): Free
Second and subsequent refinements: ¥39,900 per refinement
Replacement aligner (lost or damaged): ¥9,900 per aligner
Clear retainer (per arch): ¥24,900
Hawley retainer (per arch): ¥34,900
The comprehensive orthodontic examination includes cephalometric and panoramic X-rays, CBCT and an intraoral scan. One refinement is included free of charge with each aligner treatment plan. Retainers are charged separately. Same-day aligner delivery may be available for eligible cases.
Diagnostic imaging and other examinations may incur additional charges unless expressly included in a treatment package. Your estimate will confirm what is included, any separate charges, and the expected appointments and timing.
All prices are in Japanese yen (JPY) and include 10% consumption tax. Fees may vary with case complexity and individual requirements.
In Tokyo for a short time?
Tell us your travel dates when you book so we can discuss what fits your stay and whether further appointments will be needed. We provide reports to support international insurance claims; cover depends on your policy.
After your visit
Follow the care and review instructions your dentist gives you. Please contact the clinic if you have a question or your symptoms change.
For difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapidly spreading facial or neck swelling, or uncontrolled bleeding, call 119 for an ambulance. Seek urgent care from a service that is open rather than waiting for an online reply.
Related treatments
Clear aligners
Clear, removable trays to straighten teeth, with regular checks and a plan for retainers afterwards.
General dentistry and dental checkups
Checkups, tooth-coloured fillings and advice for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
Night guards and teeth grinding
Assessment of grinding and clenching, with a custom night guard where it is suitable.