Wondering whether you should pick clear aligners or traditional braces? Before you choose, it’s important to understand the differences, advantages, and drawbacks each presents. This guide will compare both orthodontic treatments, allowing you to decide which is the best for you.
To make an informed decision, we also suggest getting help from your orthodontist before deciding on the most appropriate option for you.
Unlike clear aligners, traditional metal braces are created using metal brackets, wires and bands to gradually straighten your teeth. While newer brace options have been developed, such as ceramic or lingual braces, they also contain components similar to traditional braces.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Clear Aligners
While ceramic braces come in clear or natural tooth colours, wiring is still visible up close. Compared to traditional or ceramic braces, clear aligners are nearly invisible. Without the presence of brackets and wires, this makes them the perfect option for discreet teeth straightening. Knowing this, you can feel confident smiling in photos and around your peers.
Easier Brushing and Upkeep
With removable retainers, you can easily brush and floss your teeth during your clear aligners treatment. Individuals who opt for this option can keep up with their usual hygiene routine freely.
Comfortable Wear
Traditional braces are worn for the entire duration of your treatment. Without the removability that clear aligners offer, this means patients can experience some discomfort from wires and brackets. Made from a safe, medical-grade plastic, clear aligners comfortably fit over your teeth without the irritation and friction associated with traditional braces.
Convenient Removal
While you should wear your clear aligners for more than 20 hours a day, patients are able to remove their retainers to eat. Traditional braces, on the other hand, need to be worn at all times. This means that certain crunchy or hard foods, such as popcorn, can get caught or are hard to remove. With clear aligners, you are free to eat your favourite snacks with no dietary restrictions.
What to Expect from Clear Aligner Treatments
Routine Aligner Removals
Having removable aligners comes with its advantages and drawbacks. Patients may feel inclined to go for long periods without wearing their clear aligners. When eating, brushing, or flossing, it is suggested that aligners be placed back right after.
Time for Straightening
Treatment time for clear aligners ranges from 1-2 years, while traditional braces can range from 1.5 years to several years. However, clear aligner treatments may take longer depending on whether the recommended wear time has been followed.
Results
Traditional braces have metal structures which can be adjusted to apply more pressure. This makes them more suitable for complex dental issues, such as severely crooked teeth, overbites, or underbites. For slight crowding or spacing problems, however, clear aligners give comparable results in a shorter period of time.
Choosing the Best Treatment For You
Clear aligners and traditional metal brace treatments come with their pros and cons. To make the best decision, figure out what suits your lifestyle, budget, and needs.
Contact your orthodontist beforehand to understand which orthodontic treatments work for you. At Embrace Orthodontics, our experienced team is ready to help you with clear aligners or brace treatment options. We’re dedicated to helping you smile confidently with personalized, stress-free services. Contact us online or call (780) 432-0367 to schedule a consultation.