ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS
Understand your options.
Find your next step.
Braces and clear aligners, considered around your teeth,
your bite and your individual treatment needs.
BRACES
A fixed approach to
gradual movement.
Brackets attached to the teeth and connecting wires guide gradual tooth movement. Fixed braces stay in place during treatment.
- Attached to the teeth throughout active treatment
- Regular orthodontic reviews and adjustments
- Careful cleaning around brackets and wires
Your orthodontist can explain whether fixed braces are suitable for your teeth and bite.
CLEAR ALIGNERS & INVISALIGN
Removable trays.
A planned progression.
Clear aligners use a series of custom-made trays to move teeth gradually. Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners.
- Removable for eating and cleaning
- Worn according to your prescribed schedule
- Progress monitored through orthodontic reviews
Suitability varies. An assessment is needed to understand whether aligners are an appropriate option for you.
SIDE BY SIDE
Two options.
Different considerations.
This comparison is a starting point for discussion. An examination helps determine the appropriate option.
| Consideration | Fixed braces | Clear aligners |
|---|---|---|
| How they work | Brackets and wires attached to teeth | A planned series of removable trays |
| Daily routine | Stay attached during treatment | Removed for eating and cleaning; worn as prescribed |
| Cleaning | Careful cleaning around brackets and wires | Clean teeth and aligners as instructed |
| Follow-up | Regular orthodontic reviews | Regular orthodontic reviews |
| Suitability | Determined individually after assessing your teeth, bite and oral health | |
YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED
A little more
clarity.
General information to help you prepare for a conversation with your orthodontist.
Patient information: NHS and American Association of Orthodontists.
What is the difference between braces and clear aligners?
Fixed braces stay attached to your teeth. Clear aligners are removable trays worn according to a prescribed schedule. The appropriate option depends on your individual treatment needs.
Are clear aligners suitable for me?
Clear aligners are suitable for some orthodontic problems. An examination of your teeth, bite and oral health helps determine whether aligners or braces are appropriate for you.
What happens at an orthodontic consultation?
A consultation is an opportunity to discuss your concerns and have your teeth and bite examined. Photographs, X-rays or scans may be recommended where needed to assess your options.
How long will treatment take?
Treatment time depends on your individual needs, the treatment plan and how closely instructions are followed. A personal estimate can be discussed after an assessment.
How much does treatment cost?
Fees depend on your individual needs and recommended treatment. Contact the clinic to arrange an assessment and discuss a personal quotation.
Will I need retainers after treatment?
Retainers help hold teeth in their new positions after active treatment. Follow your orthodontist’s advice about retainer wear and ongoing reviews.