Clear Aligner Glossary
A plain-English glossary of Invisalign and clear aligner terms, including attachments, IPR, elastics, bite ramps, chewies and refinements.
Plain-English aligner terms
Attachments
Small tooth-coloured shapes bonded to selected teeth to help aligners grip and move teeth.
IPR
Interproximal reduction; carefully planned enamel adjustment between teeth when space is needed.
Elastics
Small rubber bands that may be used with aligners for bite correction.
Bite ramps
Built-in aligner features that can assist with selected vertical bite corrections.
Refinements
Additional aligners used to fine-tune tooth position or tracking.
Passive aligners
Trays or tray sections that hold selected teeth while other teeth move.
Chewies
Small seating aids that may help aligners fit fully when instructed.
Retainers
Appliances used after treatment to hold teeth in position.
Quick answer
Clear Aligner Glossary is one part of the aligner planning vocabulary. Understanding the term helps patients ask better questions, but it does not replace diagnosis or a full orthodontic plan.
What this clear aligner glossary page should help you decide
What to clarify
- What problem is being solved
- How complex the tooth movement is
- Whether aligners are the right appliance
- How progress will be monitored
- How the final result will be retained
How this topic applies in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows
Local planning checklist
- Plan appointments around school or work rather than delaying problems.
- Keep an aligner case with you in the car, backpack or work bag.
- Call early if trays stop seating instead of waiting several stages.
- Do not let convenience replace clinical monitoring.
Questions to ask about clear aligner glossary
- What problem are we solving?
- Is this limited alignment or comprehensive orthodontics?
- Which movements are the hardest in my case?
- How are refinements handled if tracking falls behind?
- What retainer plan protects the result?
Related clear aligner guides
Common questions
Is this page enough to decide on treatment?
No. It is education only. A treatment decision requires examination, records and diagnosis.
Can aligners work for everyone?
No. Aligners can be excellent in selected cases, but braces or hybrid treatment may be more predictable for some situations.
What is the best next step?
Request a clear aligner assessment with myORTHODONTIST Maple Ridge and bring your questions about scope, cost, refinements and retainers.
Find out whether clear aligners fit your case.
Bring the questions from this guide to a specialist orthodontic assessment. The goal is not just to choose a tray brand; it is to choose the right treatment plan.