Thinking about a faster way to finish a clear aligner case? This quick guide breaks down the advantages and potential risks, so you can make an informed decision about your patient's smile.
💡 Note: If you're a new doctor with us, we highly recommend scheduling a clinical call. It's the best way to get a clear, in-depth understanding of this type of case—and ensure you're set up for success from the start.
🦷 Why Fewer Steps Isn’t Always Better
Doctors sometimes ask: “Can this case be done in fewer steps?” It’s a fair question, especially when trying to reduce costs, simplify treatment, or meet patient expectations for the timeline. But the honest answer is — rarely yes without compromise. There’s always a tradeoff, and understanding that tradeoff is key to delivering successful results.
Let’s break it down.
➡️ Every Shortcut Has an Impact
In orthodontics, reducing the number of aligner steps isn’t just about speed — it directly affects how forces are applied to teeth and how predictably they move. If a doctor suggests fewer steps, the impact needs to be acknowledged and planned for.
Ideally, the doctor should propose the clinical reasoning for requesting fewer steps. If not, it’s best to schedule a consultation to align on treatment goals and expectations.
➡️ Common Justifications for Fewer Steps
There are some valid reasons (or methods) to reduce steps — but each one comes with specific clinical considerations. Here are a few common scenarios:
“We’ll do IPR (interproximal reduction).”
Fewer steps might work if the tooth width is adjusted to allow space for movement.“We’re not treating a specific malocclusion.”
Maybe there’s an occlusion issue that doesn’t need to be addressed in this plan and the patient just wants an anterior cosmetic treatment.“The patient will finish with restorations.”
If the goal is just to prepare for cosmetic work, precision may not be critical. You'll still be able to conserve significant enamel without finalizing the aligner case with perfect results.“The patient is on a tight budget.”
Sometimes, any improvement is acceptable to the patient, even if it’s not perfect.“This patient responds really well to treatment.”
Experienced clinicians might know that certain patients have fast bone remodeling and can handle more aggressive tooth movement.“This patient doesn't want perfect results.”
Most patients will probably be happy with a significant improvement and not want to invest the extra treatment time and money in order to achieve perfect cosmetic results.
➡️ If None of the Above Apply… It’s a Probability Game
In some cases, the doctor may simply want to reduce steps to fit a “simple case” cost bracket. That’s fine — as long as they understand the possible outcome:
There’s a high chance the case will end up needing more aligners.
That means it’ll incur additional costs.
There’s also a chance the outcome won’t satisfy the doctor or patient.
This isn’t about negotiating price — it’s about respecting the biological limits of tooth movement and understanding the capabilities of clear aligners to express orthodontic movements. Teeth move a certain way, and compressing that process risks the likelihood of successful treatment.
Reducing the number of steps in a clear aligner case can be done — but only when there’s a clear and agreed-upon reason for it. If not, it’s better to talk through the options in a clinical consultation. Rushing treatment may save time or money upfront, but it often leads to refinements, higher costs, and unhappy patients down the road.
For any questions or guidance in choosing the best pricing for your case, please reach out to our friendly support team or email us at support@orthosnap.com. We’re here to help! 🌟