If you work in the City, you probably want straighter teeth without a mouth full of visible metal in client meetings. The two main routes are clear aligners such as Invisalign and traditional fixed braces. Both can work well; the right choice depends on your teeth, your bite and your working life. At Dr Martin Zunde’s practice at 77 Cornhill, a few minutes from Bank, we help City professionals weigh the options.
How Invisalign works
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners, each moving your teeth a small amount. You change to a new set every one to two weeks and wear them for most of the day. Because they are clear and removable, many City professionals find them easier to fit around presentations, dinners and travel. You can read more about Invisalign and teeth straightening at our City practice.
How fixed braces work
Fixed braces use brackets and wires bonded to the teeth. Because they cannot be taken out, they keep working all day, and some complex tooth movements are more predictable with them. Modern braces can be smaller and more discreet than you might expect, though they are more visible than aligners.
Comparing the two for a City lifestyle
Think about visibility, discipline, eating and cleaning. Aligners come out to eat and brush, which makes oral hygiene simpler, but they only work if you wear them consistently. Braces need no daily decisions, but food can catch and cleaning takes more care. Appointment frequency also differs, so ask how visits can be scheduled around your diary, for example at lunchtime or before work.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment time varies with how much movement is needed. Minor crowding can often be corrected in months, while more complex cases take longer. Dr Zunde can give you an individual estimate after examining your teeth and bite.
Combining straightening with cosmetic work
Some patients straighten first and then refine their smile with composite bonding, teeth whitening or a wider smile makeover. Planning the sequence in advance gives the most natural result. If you are already considering Invisalign in the City of London, our guide explains the process step by step.
Retainers: keeping your result
Teeth can drift after treatment, so you will usually need to wear retainers afterwards. Your dentist will explain the plan for your case.
Frequently asked questions
Is Invisalign suitable for everyone?
Not always. Some complex bite problems are better treated another way; Dr Zunde will assess this at your consultation.
Can I have Invisalign if I have crowns or implants?
Often yes, but attachments bond differently to restorations, so it needs assessing individually.
How often will I need to visit?
Typically every several weeks, with check-ins that can be planned around your working day.
Will aligners affect my speech?
You may notice a slight lisp for a few days while you adjust.
Do I need a check-up before starting?
Yes. Your gums and teeth should be healthy before any straightening begins; see our general dentistry page.
Book a consultation near Bank
Ready to discuss straightening? Book a consultation with Dr Martin Zunde at 77 Cornhill, London EC3V 3QQ, close to Bank, Liverpool Street and Moorgate. Get in touch.
About the author
Dr Martin Zunde (GDC 281866) is a Harley Street-trained cosmetic and implant dentist practising at 77 Cornhill in the City of London, near Bank.
