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Many people of all ages seek orthodontic treatment for reasons like bite misalignment or gaps between teeth.
Therefore, patients at a Dental Arts Clinic often ask about the differences between clear aligners vs. braces and which option is best for them.
For some, completing orthodontic treatment is essential before having other cosmetic procedures, like teeth whitening and veneers.
They believe that using metal braces will help them complete the treatment faster and achieve better results than clear aligners.
However, neither option is better than the other; the choice depends on the treatment goals and the patient's lifestyle.
In this article, we will explain the differences between clear aligners vs. braces to help you prepare for your next appointment.
Braces are orthodontic devices designed to straighten misaligned teeth and jaws, promoting better dental health and enhancing smiles.
Traditional braces are made up of brackets and arch wires and are offered in both standard metal and clear or tooth-colored options to reduce visibility.
While metal braces can be quite noticeable, patients have the option to choose from a variety of fun elastic colors or select tooth-colored elastics and brackets for a more discreet look.
Despite the visible wires, braces are effective at addressing most orthodontic issues and have been a reliable treatment option for many years.
Braces are a common treatment for both simple and complex dental issues. When compared to clear aligners, braces can treat all types of dental issues.
Also, braces are fixed to your teeth, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to wear them or misplacing them.
This is great for people who find it tough to keep up with aligners all the time.
On the other hand, metal braces are the most affordable option, but you can also choose behind-the-teeth (lingual) braces or ceramic braces for a less noticeable look.
Cleaning your teeth with braces is more difficult than with aligners. If you don’t keep good hygiene, it can harm your teeth and may result in the early removal of your braces.
You need to brush and floss often to get rid of food and plaque.
When you have braces, you need to change your diet to avoid damaging them or harming your teeth, similar to the dietary changes needed for teeth whitening and dental implants.
The brackets and wires can irritate the inside of your mouth, but this discomfort is temporary and manageable.
Finally, braces require longer and more frequent adjustment appointments than aligners.
Clear aligners are an innovative orthodontic solution designed to straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal braces.
These aligners are made from nearly invisible plastic that comfortably wraps around your teeth, applying gentle pressure to gradually shift them into the desired position.
To help them fit better and work effectively, small bumps made of tooth-colored resin are attached to specific teeth.
This ensures the aligners move those teeth accurately as needed.
Clear aligners offer several benefits compared to traditional braces.
The most significant benefit is their near-invisibility; most people won’t even realize you’re wearing them.
What patients appreciate the most is that clear aligners are removable.
You can take them out to eat, brush, and floss, or even for short periods during work or social gatherings.
You won’t have to worry about food getting stuck in metal brackets.
However, it's crucial to wear the aligners as instructed, which typically means keeping them in for at least 22 hours a day and wearing them in the correct sequence.
Since aligners don’t use brackets or wires, they generally require fewer repairs and fewer emergency visits to the orthodontist.
In the ongoing debate between clear aligners vs. braces, clear aligners often come out on top.
However, it's important to note that they are not suitable for complex corrections.
Besides, clear aligners can sometimes cost more than braces.
Even though patients appreciate that aligners can be removed while eating, when wearing aligners, it is better to avoid drinking soft drinks, flavored waters, or sports drinks.
These drinks can get trapped in the aligners and if they contain acid or sugar, they may stain your teeth or cause decay.
When it comes to choosing between clear aligners vs. braces, it’s essential to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for orthodontic treatment.
After gathering your orthodontic records, including x-rays, photos, and models, our orthodontist will identify the issues and develop a personalized treatment plan.
From there, you’ll be able to determine which option suits you best: aligners or braces.
If you want to find out what’s best for you, book an appointment with us here.
