Clear aligners

Clear aligners are suitable for most adults looking for a discreet way to straighten their teeth. However, they may not be ideal for patients with severe crowding, large gaps, or complex bite issues. In such cases, traditional braces might be required. A consultation will determine if clear aligners are the right option for you.

You will need to commit to wearing them for 22 hours per day to achieve the best result, but can be removed for eating, drinking and cleaning.

Some patients experience a slight lisp when they first start wearing aligners, but this usually disappears within a few days as you adjust to them.

You should remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with aligners in place can cause staining, distortion or damage.

Rinse your aligners with cold water and use a soft toothbrush with mild soap to gently clean them. Avoid using whitening toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and cause scratching. Denture cleaning tablets can also be used for a more thorough clean.

Contact us as soon as possible. Depending on your treatment stage, we may advise you to move on to your next set of aligners early or wear your previous aligner while a replacement is ordered. It is important to wear aligners consistently to prevent any delays in your treatment.

You will typically have review appointments every 4–8 weeks to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Yes, wearing a retainer is essential to maintain your new smile. Teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time, so retainers help keep them in place. We provide a set of removable retainers, and offer a fixed retainer if wanted.

The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. On average, most patients complete their treatment within 6–18 months.

You may experience mild discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners. This is normal and indicates that the aligners are working to move your teeth. Any discomfort usually subsides within a few days.

It is not recommended to smoke or vape while wearing aligners, as this can cause staining and may weaken the material.

Aligners should fit snugly over your teeth but should not cause excessive discomfort. If they feel too tight or too loose, please contact us for advice.

Always store your aligners in their protective case when not in use to prevent loss or damage. Avoid wrapping them in tissue or napkins, as they can easily be mistaken for rubbish and thrown away.

If your teeth haven’t fully moved into the desired position by the end of your treatment, we offer refinement aligners, which are additional sets designed to fine-tune your results.

Your dentist will assess your teeth and may take a new digital scan to create refinement aligners if needed. These aligners are usually included as part of your treatment plan, but in some cases, there may be an additional cost.

It’s important to follow your aligner schedule closely and wear them as instructed to minimise the need for refinements. If you have any concerns about your progress, let your dentist know as early as possible so they can make any necessary adjustments.

Once you’ve completed your clear aligner treatment, wearing a retainer is essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. There are two main types of retainer: removable and fixed bonded retainers.

1. ) Removable retainers – these are clear, plastic retainers that look similar to aligners but are slightly thicker and more durable. They need to be worn at night-time indefinitely, initially every night for the first year, but this can then be reduced over time to maintain your results.

There are two types of removable retainers available:
• Standard removable retainers (laboratory-made) – these are custom-made retainers, provided as part of your treatment plan.
• Vivera retainers (by Invisalign®) – Vivera retainers are a premium option made by Invisalign. They are designed using the same SmartTrack material as Invisalign aligners, making them more durable and resistant to cracking. Vivera retainers come in a set of three pairs, providing a longer-lasting solution. These are available at an additional cost for patients who prefer them.

2. ) Fixed bonded retainer – this is a thin wire attached to the back of your front teeth to help keep them in place. It’s a long-term solution that doesn’t need to be removed, making it a great option for people who might forget to wear a removable retainer. However it is not a replacement for a removable retainer—rather, it serves as an additional layer of protection.

As the wire stays in your mouth, it requires extra care when brushing and flossing to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Over time, it may come loose and need repair or replacement.