Revealing Insights: The Surprising Challenges of Clear Aligners from Patient Experiences

The Surprising Reality of Clear Aligners: Insights from User Experiences

In a comprehensive survey conducted by Oh my teeth, a dental tech venture based in Tokyo, 210 individuals who have completed clear aligner treatment shared their experiences, revealing both expectations and unexpected challenges. While many users praised the convenience of needing fewer in-person visits (around 50%), they overwhelmingly identified a significant drawback: the tedious process of removing and cleaning the aligners after every meal, which garnered 40.5% of responses. This figure exceeds pain complaints (16.2%) associated with the aligners, demonstrating the reality check that many patients face throughout their orthodontic journey.

The findings suggest that even in an era where technology minimizes commute hassles, individuals must actively engage in their own post-meal oral care. The true key to successful aligner treatment lies beyond convenience; it involves a transformation of personal habits and self-discipline.

Survey Overview

- Method: LINE Questionnaire
- Participants: Completed aligner treatment with Oh my teeth
- Duration: September 17-20, 2025
- Total Responses: 210 (63 males, 146 females)

Major Hurdles: Personal Habits

In the study, the most challenging aspects of clear aligner treatment were identified: 40% of respondents (85 individuals) highlighted the necessity of taking the aligners out for meals, while 20% (41 individuals) mentioned issues with managing the time they needed to keep the aligners in. The maintenance of proper hygiene post-meal quickly surfaced as the most significant barrier preventing users from fully enjoying the benefits of clear aligners.

Disadvantages	Count	Percentage
-----	---	------
Removal and cleaning after meals	85	40%
Self-management of wear time	41	20%
Discomfort after aligner exchange	34	16%
Unanticipated speech difficulties	20	10%
Tooth reduction (IPR)	15	7%
Daily aligner cleaning	10	5%
Root exposure (gum recession)	5	2%

Despite advancements in technology, such as 3D scanning and AI diagnostics that reduce clinic visits, the hands-on effort to ensure proper hygiene cannot be replaced by machines. Regardless of how far digital transformation (DX) progresses, successful treatment outcomes depend significantly on individual persistence and habit formation.

Benefits of Clear Aligners: A Modern Solution

On the positive side, clear aligners received substantial praise for the reduction in clinic visits, with 50% of participants (105 individuals) finding this aspect particularly beneficial.

Advantages	Count	Percentage
---	---	------

Fewer clinic visits	105	50%
Clear and inconspicuous aligners	45	21%
Removable for eating without restrictions	23	11%
Pre-treatment simulations showing results	21	10%
Ability to maintain hygiene easily	8	4%
Less pain compared to traditional braces	7	3%
No concerns about metal allergies	1	0.5%

The remote orthodontic style advanced by Oh my teeth aligns with the needs of efficiency-driven modern society. By minimizing the costs associated with clinic visits, users can focus more on the fundamental aspect of taking care of their dental health. This method transforms orthodontics from a passive treatment process to an active engagement in digital health, handled mainly from the comfort of one's home.

Reevaluating Orthodontic Treatment

Traditionally, dental orthodontics required frequent visits to the clinic, relying heavily on dental professionals. Oh my teeth’s approach with remote orthodontics initiates through a professional examination and continues the treatment through a digital platform. Users can monitor their progress and maintain motivation independently, leading to a more empowered and personal approach.

The essence of DX in digital health is less about automation and more about aiding individuals in habit formation, which has shown to be a significant challenge during the treatment period. Complaints like changes in speech and maintaining wear time highlight the need for users to continuously engage with their routines, underscoring the importance of personal accountability.

To support users through this journey, Oh my teeth provides 24/7 support via LINE, ensuring that technology exists not just to manage but to accompany users in their efforts to maintain motivation. This philosophy contributes to an impressive retention rate of 97% among users, showcasing the effectiveness of their approach.

Dental Professionals Weigh In

Dr. Nobukiyo Honda, a prominent orthodontist at Oh my teeth, commented on the findings: "Successfully managing clear aligners requires not only a treatment plan set by the dentist but also the patient’s daily commitment. The barriers identified by this survey, like maintaining hygiene and proper wear times, are significant challenges many encounter. Therefore, while our service offers minimal clinic visits, we ensure that patients stay connected with dental professionals, providing them peace of mind throughout their treatment journey."

Conclusion

As we navigate modern dental solutions, understanding the challenges and employing effective strategies will facilitate a smoother orthodontic journey for many. The shift towards digital health in orthodontics is paving the way for effective self-management, supported by technological advancements, to deliver satisfying outcomes for patients.

For more insights and updates, follow Oh my teeth on their social media and connect with their dental experts.