A decade ago, straightening your teeth as an adult usually meant visible metal braces. Clear aligners changed that, and in 2026 they are still the go-to choice for most people who want a straighter smile without the world knowing they are having treatment. The short version: aligners are discreet, removable and comfortable, and the technology behind them keeps getting better. This guide explains why they remain so popular, how the main systems compare, and what treatment involves in Nottingham.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a series of thin, transparent, custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Each tray moves the teeth a small amount, and you progress through the set — typically changing to the next tray every week or two — until the teeth reach their planned positions. Because they are nearly invisible and you take them out to eat and clean your teeth, they fit around daily life far more easily than fixed braces.
Why aligners still lead in 2026
Discreet — most people will not notice you are wearing them.
Removable — you eat what you like and brush and floss normally.
Comfortable — smooth plastic with no brackets or wires to rub.
Predictable — digital planning shows the likely result before you start.
Convenient — fewer emergency visits for broken brackets than with fixed braces.
The trade-off is discipline: aligners only work if you wear them for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day. For motivated adults and older teenagers, that is rarely a problem, which is why aligners continue to dominate.
Invisalign vs ClearCorrect
Pear Tree Dental offers two leading aligner systems. Invisalign is the most established brand, with a large evidence base and a wide range of cases it can treat; it starts from £2,800. ClearCorrect is a well-regarded alternative that can be a more economical route for suitable cases, starting from £2,400. Both use clear, removable trays and digital planning. The best choice depends on the complexity of your case and your budget, which the dentist confirms after an assessment.
At Pear Tree, clear aligner treatment and orthodontics is led by our principal dentists. Dr Javaad Mirza (MD, BDS, GDC 290378) has a special interest in cosmetic dentistry, including implants, veneers and orthodontics, and will talk you through what is realistic for your teeth at your consultation.
Who suits clear aligners?
Aligners handle a wide range of cases — crowding, gaps, and many bite problems. They are ideal for adults who put off braces earlier in life and for older teenagers who will wear them reliably. Very complex bite or jaw problems may still be better treated with fixed braces or a specialist referral, which is exactly what an honest assessment is for.
What treatment involves
Treatment starts with a consultation, photos and a digital scan, from which a step-by-step plan and a preview of your likely result are produced. You then wear each set of aligners as directed, with occasional short reviews to check progress. Most cases take several months to around a year and a half, depending on how much movement is needed.
Keeping your results: retainers
Teeth naturally drift over a lifetime, so retainers are essential after any orthodontic treatment. Wearing a retainer as advised — often at night — holds your new smile in place. At Pear Tree, retainers start from £150 per arch per arch. Skipping them is the most common reason straightened teeth relapse.
Spreading the cost with membership
If you are a regular patient, it is worth knowing that Pear Tree membership plans start from £10.95 a month and include your routine check-ups and hygiene visits, plus 10% off selected treatments. For families, the Family Plan covers everyone from £49.50 a month. Membership helps spread the cost of looking after your teeth and can reduce the price of further work — ask us which treatments are included.
Straightening your smile in Nottingham
If you have thought about straightening your teeth, a consultation will tell you which system suits you and what the result could look like. Book a consultation or call us on 0115 931 2935. You can also explore our orthodontic services.
FAQ
Q: How much do clear aligners cost in Nottingham? A: At Pear Tree Dental, ClearCorrect starts from £2,400 and Invisalign from £2,800. The exact price depends on how much movement your teeth need, confirmed after an assessment.
Q: How long does clear aligner treatment take? A: Most cases take from several months up to around eighteen months. Simple cases finish faster; more complex movements take longer.
Q: Are clear aligners better than braces? A: For many adults, yes, because they are discreet, removable and comfortable. Very complex cases can still be better suited to fixed braces, which is why an assessment matters.
Q: How many hours a day do I wear them? A: Around 20 to 22 hours a day — essentially all the time except when eating, drinking anything but water, and cleaning your teeth. Consistent wear is the key to staying on plan.
Q: Do I need a retainer afterwards? A: Yes. Retainers hold your teeth in their new positions and prevent relapse; they start from £150 per arch per arch. Book online or call 0115 931 2935.