Clear aligners like Invisalign have become a popular choice for orthodontic treatment because they’re discreet, removable, and comfortable. But if you’ve done a little research, you may have come across terms like “attachments” or “buttons.” These small additions sometimes come as a surprise to patients expecting completely invisible treatment — yet they play an important role in helping aligners move teeth effectively.
Here’s what you should know about attachments and buttons, why orthodontists use them, and how they help achieve the best results.
What Are Attachments?
Attachments are tiny, tooth-colored shapes made of composite resin (the same material used for fillings) that are bonded to certain teeth during aligner treatment.
- They’re usually shaped like small squares, circles, or rectangles.
- They’re designed to be discreet and match the natural shade of your teeth.
- They act like “handles,” giving aligners a better grip on your teeth to apply the right pressure.
Because clear aligners rely on gentle pressure to move teeth, attachments allow for more precise control, especially when correcting rotations, deep bites, or other complex movements.
What Are Buttons?
While often grouped with attachments, buttons are slightly different. Buttons are small, round bumps (usually clear or tooth-colored) that are bonded to the teeth and used as anchors for elastics.
- Buttons work with rubber bands (elastics) to correct bite alignment.
- They’re especially useful for cases involving overbites, underbites, or crossbites.
- Like attachments, they’re small and subtle, though they may be a little more noticeable than resin attachments.
Think of buttons as a tool that helps aligners accomplish movements that require extra assistance beyond what trays alone can provide.
Why Are They Needed?
Not every patient will need attachments or buttons, but they can be essential in certain cases. Clear aligners work best when they can “hold onto” teeth securely and apply targeted pressure. Attachments and buttons:
- Improve aligner grip and control
- Make it possible to treat more complex cases with aligners
- Help correct bite issues that trays alone cannot fix
- Ensure teeth move predictably and efficiently
Without these tools, clear aligners might not achieve the same level of precision as traditional braces for certain movements.
How Are They Placed?
The process of adding attachments or buttons is simple and painless:
- Your orthodontist prepares the tooth surface with a cleaning solution.
- A small amount of composite resin is applied.
- A template tray ensures the attachment or button is placed in the exact position.
- The resin is hardened with a curing light.
The process takes only a few minutes per tooth, and no drilling or numbing is required.
Living with Attachments and Buttons
At first, attachments and buttons may feel a little unusual, but most patients adjust quickly. Here are some tips:
- Cleaning — Pay extra attention to brushing around attachments to prevent plaque buildup.
- Aligner fit — Aligners may feel tighter when first placed over attachments, but this is normal.
- Eating and drinking — Since aligners are removed before meals, attachments don’t interfere much with eating.
- Elastics — If buttons are used with elastics, it may take a little practice to hook them on and off.
Most patients find these adjustments manageable, especially knowing that attachments and buttons are helping their treatment stay on track.
Do They Make Aligners More Noticeable?
One of the main appeals of aligners is their discreet look. While attachments and buttons may be slightly more visible than trays alone, they’re still far less noticeable than braces.
- Attachments are tooth-colored and blend in naturally.
- Buttons may be a bit more noticeable, but usually only up close.
- Overall, most people won’t notice unless you point them out.
For the majority of patients, the tradeoff is worth it — attachments and buttons help aligners achieve results that might not otherwise be possible.
Are Attachments and Buttons Permanent?
No — these tools are only temporary. They’re bonded during treatment and removed once your aligner plan is complete. Removal is quick, painless, and doesn’t damage your teeth.
Aligners Work Best with the Right Support
Attachments and buttons are just another tool orthodontists use to make aligner treatment more effective. They ensure teeth move in the right way, at the right pace, and in the right direction. Without them, some patients might not be candidates for clear aligners at all.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re interested in clear aligner treatment but unsure about attachments or buttons, expert guidance can help you understand what to expect. At Speaks Orthodontics in Denver, CO, Dr. Clif Speaks provides customized Invisalign treatment plans — including the use of attachments and buttons when needed — to ensure every patient achieves the best possible results.
We proudly serve patients across Denver, including Capitol Hill, Washington Park, LoDo, and Cherry Creek.
Schedule your complimentary exam today and learn whether clear aligners are right for you.