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Orthodontic treatment does not adopt a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, any treatment you have will be unique and what’s more, you will be given options. Clear aligners such as Invisalign® are a popular alternative to metal braces but when it comes to clear aligners vs braces there are a few things to consider.
In this post, we’re going to break down the main facts and comparisons between braces and aligners to help you choose what’s right for you.
Clear Aligners vs Braces – The differences
One significant difference between clear aligners such as Invisalign® and traditional braces is that they can be easily removed. Fixed braces, on the other hand, are attached to the teeth with wires and brackets and remain in place throughout orthodontic treatment.
While this set and forget method of teeth straightening works for those who don’t want to worry about removing aligners and possibly losing them, they don’t offer as much freedom or flexibility.
Many patients find clear aligners appealing because they can eat what they like without restriction and it’s easier to brush and floss their teeth to maintain good oral hygiene.
Do traditional braces work faster than Invisalign®?
One advantage of fixed braces is that because they are in your mouth all of the time they are constantly straightening teeth to help you achieve a perfect smile. One of the drawbacks of clear aligners is that every time you remove them from your mouth, your treatment effectively stops. Because of this, traditional braces may work faster than Invisalign® and other clear aligner brands, although this varies from person to person.
Ultimately, treatment time boils down to what sort of corrections need to be done and how receptive your teeth are rather than the oral device itself. It’s also worth pointing out that aligners are most frequently used to correct minor dental issues so they can’t be fairly compared with traditional braces.
Clear aligners vs braces – What about the price?
This is a tricky one to answer because there are many different kinds of braces and many different brands of aligners, so naturally, prices will vary. The price difference may be large or small. As well as the cost of the equipment one thing that can make aligners such as Invisalign® more expensive is that the fee is paid to the manufacturer.
With clear aligners, the more complex your treatment, the more aligners are needed which means you’ll have to pay the manufacturer more to make them for you.
Ultimately, the final cost will depend on the length of your treatment and how well you care for your aligners or braces.
Benefits of traditional braces
Braces have remained a popular option of orthodontic treatment for the simple fact that they are the most powerful teeth straightening option and can fix anything from crowding to gaps and minor alignments to severely rotated teeth. There are also several options available including ceramic braces, lingual braces and self-litigating braces enabling you to tailor your treatment to meet your dental needs, budget and preference.
Braces are also the best choice for those who want less of a hands-on approach and don’t want the hassle of removing them to eat or drink and remembering to put them back into their mouth.
Benefits of clear aligners
Invisalign®and other clear aligner brands offer a discreet way of getting straighter teeth and while they need to be in the mouth for most of the day, it’s quite liberating to remove them to eat.
Having fewer parts also means fewer complications. Braces can chafe the inside of the cheeks causing irritation or cuts, wires can snap, and brackets can crack. Clear aligners are made from soft flexible plastic and once you get past the first few days of switching to a new aligner, they’re relatively comfortable. Being removable, also makes it easier to care for your aligners and as previously mentioned, although you still have to brush and floss, it’s far easier without braces to get in the way.
So which is best for you? Clear Aligners vs Braces?
When it comes to deciding between braces and aligners for the majority of people, clear aligners win hands down. They’re ideal for 21st-century living and enable you to straighten your teeth without advertising the fact to the world. Not only can you remove them for a job interview or a first date but you can smile with confidence throughout your treatment.
With fewer dental visits needed and remote monitoring offered in many cases, there’s more incentive for self-conscious adults, teens, and even kids to straighten their teeth and transform their lives for the better. So, what are you waiting for?
Need more information?
Why not contact the friendly experienced team at Beyond Dental Care. We’re highly experienced in orthodontics and are pleased to offer patients a choice of Invisalign®, ClearCorrect and Perfect Arch aligners. Call or Get in touch today.
