Today’s orthodontic options offer more choice than ever! Patients can now select between braces and clear aligners (like Invisalign). Here’s a detailed overview to help you understand when each option is most suitable and what sets traditional braces apart from aligners.

The differences between traditional braces and aligners

• Unlike metal braces, aligners are made from clear plastic and do not involve any wires. The obvious benefit of aligners is that they are less noticeable than standard braces. Aligners can only be seen close-up and are often undetectable in photos.
• Aligners are removable, and each set is worn for around two weeks before being replaced by the next set. While braces are stuck to the teeth. The aligners allow the freedom of being able to take them out for a short while. Allowing you to eat crunchy, sticky or hard food that may damage braces.
• When metal braces are attached to the teeth, they trap food and bacteria around them, making cleaning your teeth hard. If the oral hygiene is not good while wearing braces, one could finish the orthodontic treatment to find he or she have white or brown spots on the teeth. These spots are either permanent or need cosmetic treatment to remove or make them less visible.
• While it is vital for all orthodontic patients to adopt good teeth brushing habits, clear aligners will be more forgiving. Since the aligners can be removed while brushing, oral hygiene habits are the same as for those without orthodontic treatment. But if the teeth are not cleaned, the aligners can cause the same white or brown spots on the teeth and there will be a need for restorative treatment after the orthodontic treatment is concluded.
• Braces and wires can move teeth into the desired position faster than aligners. Since the aligners trays are swapped out every two weeks, the changes between steps can only be minor. Braces can close large gaps and align teeth more efficiently.
• Everyone has different teeth. Therefore, some have multiple issues that require attention during their treatment while others are simple and straightforward. Aligners work well for those with mild discrepancies, but for more complicated cases, the braces are needed to bring teeth into position and correct bites

Which Option is Best for You?

It is difficult to choose what is the best way to achieve your goal of straight teeth. To help you decide, Dr. Kaufman will perform a thorough examination and consider the right way to achieve your goals. He will go through with you and explain each option and why it is suitable or not for you. Once you have all the information, It’s up to you to decide which option you prefer.

If you would like to know if you are a candidate for braces or clear aligners, please book an obligation-free appointment to discuss your options by calling 98227006 or contact us online.