Clear aligners are made from transparent, medical-grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them — ideal for professionals and adults who want to straighten their teeth discreetly.

Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners can be removed when eating and drinking. This means no food restrictions at all — enjoy all your favourite foods throughout treatment.

Smooth plastic aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth with no sharp metal wires or brackets to irritate your cheeks and gums. Most patients find them significantly more comfortable than traditional braces.

Because aligners are removable, you can brush and floss your teeth normally. Simply rinse your aligners in warm water and clean them with a soft toothbrush — no special tools required.

Using advanced 3D digital technology, we map out your entire treatment plan before it begins. You’ll see a simulation of your expected results from the very first appointment.

Clear aligner treatment typically requires fewer in-office visits than traditional braces. Check-in appointments are usually every 6–8 weeks — more convenient for busy patients.

Clear aligners are particularly popular for adults who missed out on orthodontic treatment earlier in life, as well as older teens who want a discreet alternative to braces during school years.

Simply remove your aligners before eating and drinking anything other than water. No lists of foods to avoid — enjoy complete freedom throughout treatment.

Clear aligner treatment at ER Dental is competitively priced and made even more accessible with Q Card — 18 months interest-free financing available at all three clinics.

Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets fixed to your teeth, connected by a wire that is periodically tightened. Clear aligners are a series of removable, custom-made transparent trays that gradually shift your teeth. Traditional braces are generally better for complex cases, while clear aligners offer greater comfort and aesthetics for mild to moderate alignment issues. Our team will help you determine the best option during your free consultation.

Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of your case. Traditional braces typically take 18 months to 3 years, while clear aligner treatment can be as short as 6 months for mild cases, or up to 18 months for more complex corrections. Your ER Dental dentist will give you a personalised timeline estimate at your consultation.

It’s normal to experience some mild discomfort for a few days after braces are fitted or adjusted, or after switching to a new set of aligners. This is a sign that your teeth are moving. The discomfort is generally manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and typically subsides within a few days. Most patients find clear aligners more comfortable than traditional braces.

Absolutely not! Orthodontic treatment is suitable for patients of all ages. Many of our patients are adults correcting their teeth for the first time. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can benefit from orthodontic treatment at any age. Book a free consultation and we’ll assess your suitability.

The cost varies depending on the type of braces, the complexity of your case, and the duration of treatment. At ER Dental, we provide a clear and transparent cost breakdown at your consultation. We also offer Q Card with 18 months interest-free financing to help make treatment more accessible.

For both traditional braces and clear aligners, check-up appointments are typically every 6–8 weeks. These appointments are quick and straightforward, and our three clinic locations make scheduling convenient no matter where you are in the Tauranga region.

With traditional braces, you’ll need to avoid certain hard, sticky, or crunchy foods. With clear aligners, simply remove them before eating — meaning no food restrictions at all!

Your complimentary 15-minute consultation is relaxed and pressure-free. You’ll meet one of our experienced dental professionals, see our modern clinic, and have an informative conversation about your options. We’ll answer your questions, provide an initial assessment of your suitability, and outline what a full treatment plan might look like. There is absolutely no obligation to proceed.

ER Dental offers Q Card with 18 months interest-free financing on orthodontic treatment. You can apply online through the Q Card website — the application is quick and straightforward. Once approved, use your Q Card at any of our three clinics and spread your treatment cost over 18 months with no interest charges. Standard Q Card lending criteria and terms apply.

Clear aligners are suitable for most patients with mild to moderate spacing, crowding, or bite alignment issues. Patients with very complex needs may be better suited to traditional braces. The best way to find out is to book your free 15-minute consultation — our team will assess your teeth and give you personalised advice on the most effective treatment for your situation.