Welcome to Aligned Orthodontics
We are delighted to welcome you to our practice. This pack will guide you through what to expect at your first visit, the treatment options available, and the differences between NHS and private orthodontic care.
🦷 1. Metal Braces
✅ Pros:
Most affordable fixed option
Strong and durable, great for complex cases
Treatment is often faster in certain situations
No risk of losing them (they’re fixed!)
❌ Cons:
Very visible on the teeth
Can cause discomfort from brackets and wires
Certain foods must be avoided (sticky, hard, crunchy)
Require regular in-person adjustments
🦷 2. Ceramic Braces
✅ Pros:
Tooth-coloured brackets blend in better than metal
Offers the same effectiveness as metal for most cases
A good balance of aesthetics and strength
❌ Cons:
Slightly more expensive than metal braces
Brackets are larger and can stain if patient eats curries or tomato based sauces
Still visible, just less so
🦷 3. Clear Aligners
✅ Pros:
Nearly invisible when worn
Removable for eating, brushing, and special occasions
No brackets or wires = fewer emergencies (less time out of school or work)
Generally more comfortable
❌ Cons:
Requires discipline, must be worn 20–22 hours per day
🦷 4. Lingual Braces(Hidden Behind the Teeth)
✅ Pros:
Completely invisible from the front
Great for patients who need fixed braces but want them discreet
Can be effective for a wide range of tooth movements
❌ Cons:
Usually the most expensive option
Can cause initial speech issues
May cause more tongue discomfort
Harder to clean due to their position
📊 Quick Comparisons
Metal Braces Visible, not removeable, can treat complex cases, budget-friendly -£3,800
Ceramic Braces Medium visibility, not removable, aesthetic fixed option, can treat complex cases-£4,500
Invisalign Low visibility, removable, adults/teens, can treat complex cases -£3,300–£4,500
Lingual Braces Invisible, hidden fixed option can treat complex cases, can effect speech-£7,995
💬 Final Thoughts: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
The best type of braces for you depends on:
Your lifestyle
Your budget
Your treatment goals
The complexity of your case
That’s why we always recommend starting with a consultation, so we can assess your teeth and help guide you toward the option that fits your smile and your life.