When it comes to orthodontic treatment, braces are the tried and true method. Having been around for hundreds of years, the technology has evolved to make braces more comfortable, compact, and effective.
Clear aligners are a more recent development in orthodontic treatment. Using clear plastic trays that gradually straighten teeth, this method is discreet, comfortable, and convenient. Clear aligner systems have been in use for nearly 30 years.
If you’re trying to choose between these two orthodontic treatments, here’s what you need to know to make a fully informed decision.
How Braces Work
Braces consist of metal brackets that attach to the front of each tooth. The brackets are connected by an archwire that extends across all of the teeth in the upper and lower arch respectively. The archwire, along with other orthodontic mechanisms, are used to shift the teeth into proper alignment. Braces also help your upper teeth meet together properly with your lower teeth for improved dental function and oral health. Braces must be adjusted manually by your orthodontist every 4-6 weeks.
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligner treatment consists of a series of plastic retainer-like trays that fit over your teeth. Each aligner is slightly different from the previous one so that your teeth are gradually shifted into proper alignment. You wear each aligner for about one week, then switch to the next one in order until you’ve worn them all. Ideally your teeth will be in the proper position and your bite will line up correctly by the time you’ve completed your treatment. Adjustments may be made as your treatment progresses to ensure the desired results are achieved.
Pros and Cons of Braces
Pros:
- Proven effective
- Most patients are candidates
- Typically covered by insurance
- Fixed to the teeth
Cons:
- Brackets and wires can cause irritation
- Braces are visible
Pros and Cons of Clear Aligners
Pros:
- Essentially invisible
- Smooth plastic is comfortable
- Removable for eating (no dietary restrictions)
Cons:
- Aligners can be lost
- May not be effective for all patients
- Requires strict compliance with treatment instructions
Considerations in Your Choice
Are you a candidate for clear aligners?
The biggest factor when it comes to choosing between clear aligners and braces is whether or not you are a candidate for clear aligner treatment. Clear aligners are most effective for mild to moderate orthodontic cases. Severe cases most likely need to be treated with braces. A brief evaluation by your orthodontist can determine if you are a candidate for clear aligner treatment.
How important is your appearance to you?
If you have major concerns about how braces will affect your appearance, clear aligners may be a better choice. They are discreet enough that most people are unable to tell that you are wearing your aligners.
Can you (or your child) keep up with your aligners?
Aligners have to be taken out to eat, which makes them easy to lose. If you or your child are likely to lose aligners frequently, it may be best to consider braces.
Will you be able to wear your aligners for at least 20 hours a day?
For clear aligners to be effective, they must be worn as much as possible. You should not have them out of your mouth for more than a total of 4 hours a day.
Making Your Choice
Weigh the pros and cons and determine what factors are most important to you when it comes to orthodontic treatment. You will also need to schedule an orthodontic evaluation to get a professional opinion on the best orthodontic treatment for you. What’s most important is that the necessary results are achieved so that you can enjoy improved oral health.
Contact The Brace Place Orthodontics today to learn more and schedule an appointment.