This is a very common we get asked at our dental clinic in Sutton. We get asked this by teenagers who would prefer not to spend up to 2 years of their teenage life in metal braces and young adults who have decided they finally want to fix their smile.
When answering this question we need to take into consideration the current position of your teeth and bit. For certain complex cases only one form of treatment will work. Other considerations also include lifestyle, commitment and budget.
What are the differences between metal braces and clear aligners?
Fixed braces move the teeth into a straighter position using fixed brackets on the teeth and wires. These apply continuous force to gradually move the teeth into position.
Clear aligners are removable trays which move the teeth also by applying force throughout the treatment. You will receive new trays as your treatment progresses and your teeth gradually move.
Both forms of teeth straightening treatment options in Sutton work well and deliver great results. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on a range of factors.
Fixed braces are less discreet
Fixed braces give the orthodontist control over how the tooth moves making it much easier to correct rotations and tilts. Teeth in challenging positions are able to be maneuvered into a straighter position. For this reason, fixed braces are the preferred option for more complex cases where teeth require significant movement to correct severe crowding and complex bite issues.
Although clear aligners can treat a range of cases, more extreme cases require additional techniques and the use of fixed appliances to achieve the most predictable result. However, the main issue with fixed braces are that they are fixed and so they can impact your daily life. For example, certain foods are off limit including toffee and hard foods. You will also need to carefully clean between the brackets. Finally, whenever the brackets are readjusted there can be sensitivity around the teeth for a period.
Treatment time varies from case to case. Simple cases can take a few months while more complex cases can take up to 24 months.
Clear aligners are more discreet but require commitment
Clear aligners such as Invisalign work through a series of clear, custom made trays which gradually move the teeth into the correct position. You will be provided with new trays every one to two weeks as your teeth gradually move. At Pine Dental we have dentists who have been providing Invisalign in Sutton for a number of years.
The main benefit of clear aligners are that they are close to invisible and can be removed so they have limited impact on your daily life. As such, there are no dietary restrictions.
However, the main caveat with clear aligners is that they only work if worn with discipline, typically 20 to 22 hours a day. If you do not wear clear aligners for the advised time, then your teeth will simply not move. This will impact your timeline and potentially your final result. Therefore, before agreeing to clear aligner treatment you must be willing to commit to the demands.
Clear aligners are particularly effective for mild to moderate cases. Severe crowding or rotations will usually require fixed braces or a combination of the two.
Side by Side
What we look at during your smile consultation
When you come in for a smile consultation we will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the most suitable treatment option for you. This will include a digital scan which will show you how your teeth currently look. We will also discuss with you the reasons for getting this treatment and your daily commitments and personal preferences. Using our digital scan we can give you a rough idea of how your smile could look following the treatment.
Another key point to make is that following your treatment it is critical that you wear your retainers otherwise you run the risk of your teeth moving again. According to the British Orthodontic Society, nearly all patients need to wear retainers after treatment finishes since teeth naturally move back toward their original position over time.
Which Is Better: Clear Aligners or Braces?
Ultimately, neither treatment is universally better. Clear aligners can be an excellent option for suitable cases where discretion and removability are important. Braces may be preferable in more complex cases. The right choice depends on your individual teeth and treatment goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
For mild to moderate crowding and spacing, results are broadly comparable. For complex rotations or significant bite correction, braces generally offer more predictable control.
Are clear aligners better than braces?
Not automatically — each suits different cases. Aligners are more discreet and removable; braces give more consistent control for complex movements. Suitability depends on your teeth, not preference alone.
How long does treatment take?
Clear aligners typically run 6–18 months for straightforward cases. Traditional braces more commonly take 12–24 months for comprehensive treatment. Your consultation will give a realistic estimate for your specific case.
Which is cheaper, braces or clear aligners?
Cost depends on complexity and length of treatment rather than the appliance type alone — it’s worth comparing full treatment-plan costs rather than assuming one is always cheaper. We’ll provide a clear quote after assessment.
Can adults get braces or clear aligners?
Yes. A growing proportion of our orthodontic patients are adults, and age itself isn’t a barrier provided your teeth and gums are healthy enough for treatment.
Book a consultation in Sutton
We see orthodontic patients from Sutton, Cheam, Carshalton, Belmont and Wallington — teenagers starting their first course of treatment, and adults finally getting round to it decades later than they’d planned. If you’re not sure which option fits your case, that uncertainty is exactly what the consultation is for.
Pine Dental & Aesthetics is located in Belmont, Sutton, directly next to Belmont Train Station and bus stops. We also have plenty of free parking spaces. Call us on 020 3535 6260 or email hello@pinedental.co.uk to speak to a member of our team to start your new smile journey.