Your smile speaks before you do. At Union Quay Dental, cosmetic dentistry transcends aesthetics—it’s about confidence, comfort, and feeling authentically yourself.

Advanced technology meets a gentle, personalized touch. From subtle refinements to complete transformations, our experienced team guides you through every step in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where results look effortlessly natural.

Beautiful smiles, achieved comfortably and discreetly.

Clear Aligners vs Braces

Compare the benefits of both orthodontic solutions to find the right fit for you

Clear Aligners

Virtually Invisible

Discreet treatment that fits seamlessly into your professional and social life.

Removable

Take them out for eating, drinking, and special occasions—total flexibility.

Comfortable

No metal brackets or wires, just smooth plastic aligners that feel natural.

Easy Hygiene

Remove aligners to brush and floss normally—maintaining oral health is simple.

Predictable Results

See your final smile before treatment starts with advanced digital planning.

Fewer Appointments

Check-ins every 6-8 weeks mean less time away from your busy schedule.

Traditional Braces

Treats Complex Cases

Effective for severe misalignment and bite issues that aligners can't address.

Always Working

Fixed to your teeth 24/7—no need to remember to wear them.

Powerful Correction

Precisely controls tooth movement in all directions for comprehensive results.

Cost-Effective

Often more affordable for extensive orthodontic work.

No Compliance Needed

Treatment progresses on schedule regardless of patient discipline.

Proven Track Record

Decades of successful outcomes for all types of orthodontic issues.

Both options deliver excellent results. During your consultation, we'll assess your specific needs and recommend the best treatment to achieve your dream smile.

What to expect at your appointment

Your journey to straighter teeth begins with a thorough consultation where we design a personalized treatment plan just for you.

Comprehensive consultation

We'll discuss your goals, examine your teeth, and use advanced imaging to create a detailed treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

We'll discuss your goals, examine your teeth, and use advanced imaging to create a detailed treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Using digital smile design technology, we'll show you a preview of your final results before treatment begins, ensuring complete confidence.

Ongoing support

Regular check-ins ensure your treatment stays on track. We're here to answer questions and provide guidance every step of the way.

Confidence in your smile journey

Clear aligner treatment combines cutting-edge technology with personalized care to deliver results that transform not just your smile, but your confidence.

Our experienced team guides you through every stage of your journey, from initial consultation to final reveal. We’re committed to making your treatment as comfortable and convenient as possible, with flexible scheduling and efficient appointments designed around your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about clear aligners

How long does clear aligner treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on your specific needs, but most patients achieve their desired results within 6-18 months. During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalized timeline based on your goals.

Are clear aligners uncomfortable?

Clear aligners are designed for comfort. While you may feel slight pressure when switching to a new set—a sign that they’re working—most patients adjust quickly and find them far more comfortable than traditional braces.

How often do I need to wear my aligners?

For optimal results, aligners should be worn 20-22 hours per day. You’ll remove them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth.

Can I eat and drink with my aligners in?

You should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents damage to the aligners and maintains good oral hygiene throughout your treatment.

What issues can clear aligners fix?

Clear aligners are effective for treating crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. During your consultation, we’ll assess whether clear aligners are the right solution for your specific case.

How do I clean my aligners?

Simply rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. Clean them daily to keep them clear and hygienic.

Will people notice I'm wearing aligners?

Clear aligners are virtually invisible. Most people won’t notice you’re wearing them unless you tell them. They’re designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

What happens after my treatment is complete?

After achieving your new smile, you’ll wear a retainer to maintain your results. We’ll provide guidance on retainer wear to ensure your teeth stay beautifully aligned for years to come.

Ready to love your smile again?

Book a consultation and see what sets Union Quay Dental apart

Get in touch

Location:

The Richard Irvin Building, Union Road, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE30 1HB

Opening times:

Mon – Thu: 8am – 8pm
Friday: 8am – 3pm
Saturday: 9am – 3pm
Sunday: Closed