Clear aligners: Straighten your teeth, quietly and confidently
Clear aligners are a near-invisible way to gently move your teeth into the position you've always wanted. No metal, no awkward photos, just a calm path to a confident new smile.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are thin, transparent trays that fit precisely over your teeth and gradually move them into the position you'd like. You wear each set for one to two weeks before progressing to the next, slowly working your way through your treatment plan towards a beautifully straight smile.
Why so many adults choose aligners
For most adults, the idea of metal braces simply isn't appealing - and rightly so. Aligners changed all of that. They're virtually invisible, completely removable for eating and brushing, and they fit neatly around the life you already have. Most people you meet won't even notice you're wearing them.
Modern dentistry in Richmond powered by digital scanning
Every aligner case at Richmond Hill Dental begins with a digital iTero scan - no messy traditional impressions, no gagging, no fuss. The scan creates a remarkably precise 3D model of your teeth and lets us show you a digital preview of your finished result before you commit to anything.
Your three aligner options at Richmond Hill Dental
We've carefully selected three of the most respected aligner systems in the UK. The right one for you depends on the complexity of your case, your budget and your goals:
- Invisalign - the world's most established aligner brand, with the broadest range of treatment options for simple to complex cases
- Spark aligners - made from a clearer, more stain-resistant material than most competitors, often the most discreet option
- Angel aligners - a beautifully refined system known for excellent results and competitive pricing
When clear aligners might be right for you
Aligners are remarkably versatile and suit a huge range of cases. They work especially well for:
- Mild to moderate crowding
- Gaps between teeth
- Mild bite issues
- Teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic work
- Patients who want a discreet, removable option
How do clear aligners work?
Each aligner is precisely designed to apply gentle, controlled pressure to specific teeth - moving them a small fraction at a time. As you progress through your series of aligners, your teeth gradually shift into their final positions. The whole process is carefully planned digitally before you begin a single tray.
Your aligner journey at Richmond Hill Dental
Aligner treatment is a properly considered process, and we'll guide you through every step. Here's what to expect.
Step 1 - Orthodontic consultation
You'll have a consultation with one of our dentists for £65 where we'll examine your teeth, discuss your goals, and explain whether aligners are the right path for you.
Step 2 - Digital scan and treatment plan
For an extra £50, we'll take a detailed iTero scan and create your personalised digital treatment plan. You'll see a preview of your finished smile before agreeing to anything - and most patients have their scan in the same visit.
Step 3 - Receiving your aligners
Once your custom aligners arrive, we'll fit your first tray, talk you through how to wear and care for them, and answer every question. Most patients wear each tray for one to two weeks.
Step 4 - Progress reviews
We'll see you every six to eight weeks to check your progress, refine anything that needs adjusting, and hand over your next batch of aligners. Most patients say the time genuinely flies.
Step 5 - Refinement and retainers
Once you've finished your main treatment, we may refine the result with a few additional aligners. Then we'll fit you with retainers (from £300) to keep your beautiful new smile exactly where it should be for years to come.
How long does aligner treatment take?
It depends on the complexity of your case. Simple cases (like minor crowding or a single rotated tooth) can be finished in three to six months. Most adult cases take six to eighteen months, while more complex cases can extend up to two years. We'll give you a clear timeline at your consultation.
Refining your results with cosmetic dentistry
Many of our patients combine aligners with subtle finishing touches once their teeth are straight. Professional teeth whitening brightens the underlying shade beautifully, and composite bonding can refine the shape of any teeth that look slightly uneven. Done together, the results can be genuinely transformational.
How much do clear aligners cost in Richmond?
We're a fully private practice with transparent, upfront pricing:
- Orthodontic consultation - £65
- iTero scan and digital treatment plan - £50
- Invisalign - from £3,500
- Spark aligners - from £3,500
- Angel aligners - from £3,500
- Retainers - from £300
Frequently asked Questions
Are aligners actually invisible?
They're remarkably discreet. Made from clear, smooth plastic that fits precisely over your teeth, most people you meet day-to-day genuinely won't notice you're wearing them. Spark aligners in particular are made from a more stain-resistant material that stays clear throughout treatment.
How many hours a day do I need to wear them?
Around 22 hours a day for the best results - so essentially you only take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush your teeth. The discipline pays off quickly, and most patients adjust within the first week.
Do aligners hurt?
You'll feel some pressure when you fit a new aligner, particularly in the first day or two. Most patients describe it as a tightness rather than discomfort, and it eases within a few days as your teeth start to move.
Will I need to wear retainers afterwards?
Yes, always. Teeth have a natural tendency to drift back over time, so retainers are essential for protecting your investment. We'll fit you with custom retainers once treatment finishes, and you'll wear them every night for the long term.
Can I eat normally during treatment?
Yes - because aligners are removable, you can eat whatever you like. Just remember to take them out before meals, brush your teeth before putting them back in, and avoid drinking anything other than water while wearing them.
What if aligners aren't right for my case?
Some cases are better suited to fixed braces, particularly more complex bite issues or significant rotations. We'll always be honest about what aligners can and can't achieve - and recommend a different approach if it's genuinely better for your smile.