Clear Aligners in Gainsborough - Invisible Teeth Straightening

Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case. Simple cases involving minor crowding or spacing may take just 3-6 months, while moderate cases typically require 9-12 months. More complex orthodontic issues might need 12-18 months of treatment. During your free consultation at our Stamford practice (easily accessible from Gainsborough), we'll assess your teeth and provide an accurate timeline. The 3D treatment preview will show you the expected duration before you commit.

Clear aligners are significantly more comfortable than traditional metal braces. When you start each new set of aligners, you'll feel some pressure and tightness - this is actually a good sign that they're working to move your teeth. This sensation typically fades within 1-2 days as your teeth adjust. Unlike braces with metal brackets and wires that can irritate your cheeks and lips, clear aligners have smooth edges and won't cause mouth sores. Most Gainsborough patients find them very tolerable.

For optimal results, wear your clear aligners 20-22 hours daily, removing them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing/flossing your teeth. Compliance is crucial - if you don't wear them enough, your treatment will take longer or may not achieve the desired results. The beauty of clear aligners is that you can remove them for important meetings, social events, or meals, but they need to be in your mouth the vast majority of the time to work effectively.

You should remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything except cool water. Food can get trapped under the aligners and cause decay, and hot drinks can warp the plastic. One of the major benefits of clear aligners over fixed braces is that you can eat all your favourite foods without restriction - just remove your aligners first. Always brush your teeth before putting aligners back in to maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment.

Clear aligners can effectively treat a wide range of orthodontic problems including crowding, spacing/gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. They're suitable for mild to moderate cases and many complex cases too. Very severe orthodontic issues or certain bite problems may still require traditional braces. The best way to know if clear aligners are right for you is to attend our free consultation at St Mary's Dental in Stamford - we'll assess your specific situation and recommend the most suitable treatment option.

Contact our Stamford practice immediately if you lose or damage an aligner. Depending on where you are in your treatment sequence, we may advise you to move to your next aligner (if you're near the end of wearing that set) or revert to the previous set while we order a replacement. Never leave gaps in your treatment schedule without wearing aligners, as your teeth can shift back. We keep records of your treatment plan and can quickly fabricate replacements when needed.

Clear aligner treatment at St Mary's Dental ranges from £2,500 for straightforward cases to around £5,500 for complex orthodontic issues, with average cases costing £3,500-£4,500. We offer flexible finance options starting from just £99 per month with 0% interest available, making treatment very affordable. Your free consultation includes a detailed quote based on your specific needs. The total cost includes all aligners, appointments, 3D scanning, treatment planning, and retainers - there are no hidden fees.

Yes, retainers are essential to maintain your beautifully aligned smile. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions, especially in the first few months after treatment. We provide custom retainers as part of your treatment package and will advise on how often to wear them - typically every night for life. Retainers are small, comfortable, and similar to the aligners you've been wearing. This final step ensures your investment in a straight smile lasts forever.

Our Stamford practice is approximately 55 miles from Gainsborough, about an hour's drive via the A156 and A631 or A1. The journey is straightforward and Stamford offers ample parking. Because clear aligner treatment requires fewer appointments than traditional braces (typically every 6-8 weeks), it's very convenient for Gainsborough patients. Many of our patients from the West Lindsey area appreciate being able to combine their dental appointments with a visit to historic Stamford's beautiful shops and cafes.