If you’re unhappy with your smile, clear aligners offer a simple, modern way to straighten your teeth without metal braces. They’re comfortable, easy to wear, and designed to fit around your daily life.
Many people start by searching for Invisalign. The good news is that modern clear aligners can achieve the same kind of results in many cases.
At Limes Dental Practice, we offer custom clear aligner treatments tailored to your smile, giving you more flexibility and often better value.
Clear aligner therapy is a modern way to straighten your teeth using a series of custom-made trays. These aligners are made from smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic and are designed to fit closely over your teeth.
Each set is slightly different, gently guiding your teeth into position step by step. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal wires or brackets, so they won’t rub against your cheeks or gums.
There are a few different ways to straighten your teeth. The right option depends on your needs, your lifestyle, and how complex your case is.
| Feature | Clear Aligners | Invisalign | Traditional Braces |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Hard to notice | Hard to notice | Easy to see (metal brackets) |
| Comfort | Smooth and comfortable | Smooth and comfortable | Can feel sore or rub |
| Removability | You can take them out | You can take them out | Fixed to your teeth |
| Eating | No restrictions | No restrictions | Some foods to avoid |
| Cleaning | Easy to keep teeth clean | Easy to keep teeth clean | Harder to clean |
| Flexibility | Tailored to you | Standard system | Fixed system |
| Cost | Often more flexible | Usually higher | Varies |
While Invisalign is well known, clear aligners can deliver the same results for many people, often with more flexibility and better value.
At Limes Dental Practice we focus on:
Clear Aligners (Our Treatment)
Best for mild to moderate cases where you want something comfortable and easy to manage.
Invisalign
Best if you specifically want that brand.
Traditional Braces
Better for more complex cases.
1. Consultation & Scan
We check your teeth, talk through your goals, and take a digital scan.
2. Your Treatment Plan
We show you how your teeth will move and what your final result could look like.
3. Your Aligners Are Made
You’ll receive a series of aligners designed to gradually straighten your teeth.
4. Wearing Your Aligners
You’ll wear them for 20–22 hours a day, changing them every 1–2 weeks.
5. Progress Check-Ups
We’ll check in with you to make sure everything is on track.
Clear aligners are a good option if you:
However, they might not be the best option for more complex orthodontic cases.
Not sure? We’ll let you know during your consultation.
We welcome patients from:
- Churchdown
- Quedgeley
- Stroud
- Stonehouse
- Across the wider Gloucestershire area
Take the first step towards a straighter, more confident smile.
Please note: We are a fully private dental practice and do not offer NHS treatment.
Clear aligners work by applying gentle, constant pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into their desired position. Each aligner in the series is slightly different, aligning your teeth step by step. You'll wear each set for about two weeks before moving on to the next set.
The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and how consistently you wear your aligners. On average, treatment can last between 10 to 24 months, similar to traditional braces. Your dentist will provide a more accurate timeline during your consultation.
While not painful, you may experience some discomfort or pressure for a few days after starting a new set of aligners. This sensation is typically mild and is a sign that the aligners are working to shift your teeth.
It's recommended to remove your aligners when eating and drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining of the aligners and ensures they don't get damaged. Always brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners after meals.
For the best results, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. You can remove them for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
Some people may notice a slight lisp when they first begin wearing their aligners. This is usually temporary and should disappear as you become accustomed to wearing the aligners.
Clear aligners are effective for a wide range of teeth straightening cases, from mild to moderate. However, they may not be suitable for more complex orthodontic issues. A consultation with a dental professional can determine if clear aligners are the right option for you.
To care for your aligners, rinse them with water and brush them gently with a toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
Once your treatment is complete, you'll likely need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile. Your dentist will provide instructions on how and when to wear your retainer.
The cost of clear aligner treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. Generally, the cost is comparable to traditional braces. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the treatment, and financing options are often available.