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Clear Aligners vs Traditional Braces: Which Option May Suit You?

2026 · 01 · 28 · 5 min read
Clear Aligners vs Traditional Braces: Which Option May Suit You?

Clear aligners and traditional braces both straighten teeth, but the right option depends on your case, lifestyle and goals.

Straightening your teeth is a long term investment. Two of the most common routes today are clear aligners and traditional fixed braces. Both can deliver excellent results, but they suit different people for different reasons.

Appearance and discretion

Clear aligners are nearly invisible and removable. For adult patients in South East London who would rather treatment was understated, this is often the deciding factor.

Comfort and lifestyle

Aligners can be removed for meals, cleaning and special occasions. Fixed braces stay in place throughout, which can be helpful when consistency is needed but slightly more involved at home.

Suitability and complexity

Traditional braces are often the better choice for more complex tooth movements. A dentist in Abbey Wood can review your case and recommend the most appropriate option, sometimes a combination of both.

Treatment time

Timeframes vary case by case. Many aligner journeys take between six and eighteen months, but only a clinical assessment can give you a realistic estimate.

How to decide

Book a consultation, share your goals and let the clinician walk you through both options honestly. The right choice is the one that fits your case clinically and your life day to day.

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