Invisalign vs Braces in Leicester: Cost, Time & Real Cases
Thinking about straightening your teeth in Leicester or Oadby? This guide from Smile Perfections Dental & Cosmetic Clinic explains how Invisalign® clear aligners compare with fixed braces on cost, speed, comfort and results, plus real local cases to help you choose.
Quick comparison
| Factor | Invisalign® (clear aligners) | Fixed braces (metal/ceramic) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Mild–moderate crowding/spacing; many bite issues | Mild–complex crowding, rotations, certain bite corrections |
| Visibility | Nearly invisible trays | Visible brackets; ceramic more discreet |
| Comfort | Smooth trays; change weekly/bi-weekly | Low-profile but can rub; monthly adjustments |
| Oral hygiene | Remove to brush/floss; easier to keep clean | More meticulous cleaning needed around brackets |
| Diet | Remove to eat; no food restrictions | Avoid hard/sticky foods; risk of breakages |
| Typical time | ~6–18 months* | ~12–24 months* |
| Typical private fees in Leicester | ~£2,500–£5,000* | Metal: ~£2,000–£3,500*; Ceramic/lingual: higher |
| Aftercare | Retainers essential (nightly) | Retainers essential (nightly) |
* Times and fees are indicative; your plan depends on clinical complexity and goals.
How treatment time compares
Invisalign can be as fast as 6–9 months for simple crowding/spacing. Complex bite corrections may take 12–18+ months.
Fixed braces are highly versatile and often chosen for more complex tooth movements; many cases complete in 12–24 months.
What actually decides speed? Starting crowding/rotation, bite (overbite/underbite/crossbite), attachment use, patient compliance (Invisalign needs ~22 hours/day wear), and biological response.
Cost in Leicester & Oadby: what to expect
Private fees vary with complexity, appliance type and aftercare:
Invisalign packages: typically £2,500–£5,000 including aligners, reviews, basic whitening and retainers (varies by plan).
Fixed metal braces: typically £2,000–£3,500; ceramic usually +£400–£800; lingual significantly higher.
NHS orthodontics: generally for under-18s who meet clinical criteria; adult orthodontics is normally private.
Ask us about 0% finance and staged payments. See our Fees & Finance page for examples.
Real Smile Perfections cases (Leicester area)
Typical: 6–12 months*
Typical: 6–12 months*
*Times vary by case after a full clinical assessment.
Who is a good candidate?
Choose Invisalign if you want a discreet option, can commit to 22h/day wear, and your bite/crowding is mild–moderate.
Choose fixed braces if you’re likely to forget aligners, or you have complex rotations, impacted teeth, or larger bite corrections where brackets give added control.
Unsure? Many patients are suitable for either; the choice can come down to lifestyle and aesthetics.
Comfort, hygiene & lifestyle
Comfort: Invisalign trays are smooth; pressure is felt for 1–2 days after changes. Braces can rub early on, wax and gels help.
Hygiene: Invisalign is removed to brush and floss; braces need interdental brushes/water flossers and occasional hygienist visits.
Diet: No food restrictions with Invisalign (trays out to eat). Braces: avoid hard/sticky foods to prevent bracket breakages.
Retainers — the non-negotiable finishing step
Teeth move throughout life. Whether you choose aligners or braces, nightly retainers protect your result. Options include:
Removable Essix retainers (clear trays)
Bonded fixed retainers (thin wire behind front teeth)
We’ll advise the best combo for your case and show how to keep them clean.
Our process at Smile Perfections (what happens next)
Consultation in Oadby — photos, 3D scan, clinical exam, suitability check.
Treatment planning — digital simulations (Invisalign) or bracket plan; full cost and time estimate.
Active treatment — in-person reviews every 6–10 weeks (Invisalign) or 4–8 weeks (braces).
Finishing & whitening — minor refinements if needed; optional whitening.
Retention — retainers fitted; reviews scheduled.
Parking & access: On-site/nearby parking on Harborough Rd, step-free access available.
Areas we serve: Oadby, Knighton, Stoneygate, Clarendon Park and wider Leicester.
Invisalign vs braces: our clinical take
Both systems can deliver outstanding results. The best choice is the one that fits your bite, lifestyle and commitment. We’re happy to show you real local cases like yours and recommend the most predictable route.
📞 Ready to compare options? Contact Smile Perfections today, we’re here to help you feel confident and informed about your dental care.
Leicester patients ask us…
Invisalign reviews are usually every 6–10 weeks, braces 4–8 weeks, with flexibility around work/school.
For mild–moderate cases, times can be similar. For complex movements, braces may be more efficient.
Briefly at the start. Invisalign trays can cause a light lisp for a few days; most patients adapt quickly. Braces rarely affect speech.
Consistency is key. Less than 22 hours/day will slow progress and can compromise results.
Yes, to keep the result stable, plan on nightly wear long-term (we’ll guide you).
