Clear Aligners
straighter teeth, discreetly.

What are clear aligners?

Clear aligners are thin, custom-made plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth and move them gradually into position. They're almost invisible when worn, and because they're removable, you can eat, brush and floss exactly as you normally would.

Spark Clear Aligners

We use the Spark Clear Aligner system. Your treatment is planned digitally from a scan of your teeth, and a series of custom trays is manufactured to move your teeth through each planned stage. As with any clear aligner system, the trays are removable and are worn as directed between reviews at the practice.

How it works

1. A consultation and digital scan of your teeth, so we can plan your new smile
2. Your movement is mapped digitally, and a series of custom aligners is made for you
3. Wear each set of aligners as directed, changing to the next set as your teeth move
4. Regular reviews at the practice to check progress, through to your final result

Is it right for me?

Clear aligners suit many cases of crowding, spacing and mild-to-moderate misalignment, for teens and adults alike. They're also often the finishing touch of a smile makeover, straightening teeth before whitening or veneers. We'll assess your teeth and tell you honestly whether aligners will get you the result you want.

Orthodontics — more than straight teeth

Straightening isn't only about appearance. Teeth that are lined up properly are easier to clean, which supports decay prevention and gum health. Alignment and bite can matter in other ways too:

• Front teeth that sit too far forward can be more easily damaged
• Teeth can wear excessively when the bite is out of alignment, particularly with a crossbite
• A crossbite can contribute to asymmetry in the bite and smile
• Gums can be injured or recede where the bite is deep behind the front teeth
• An abnormal bite pattern may affect the jaw joint over the long term
• In some cases, tooth position can affect speech

Many of these patterns are hereditary, so if a parent has had one of them it is worth having children assessed as their teeth develop.

Other orthodontic options

Aligners are not the only way to move teeth. Depending on what we find, treatment may involve:

• Fixed or removable appliances to correct some bite problems or guide growth in the right direction
• Appliances to help stop thumb-sucking in young children
• Removing selected teeth to relieve crowding, where that is needed for a stable result

Extractions are not needed in every case — every case is different, and we will talk you through what we find and what your options are before anything begins.