Clear Aligners vs Braces | How do I Choose?

You’ve done it; you have finally decided to straighten your teeth. But with so many options, how do you know which treatment is best for you? The two most popular options are clear aligners or Invisalign, which straighten the teeth using molded plastic trays, and metal braces using brackets and wires. Each option has its pros and cons. But, it would be best if you weighed the decision to decide which is best for you. Finding an orthodontic treatment that suits you depends entirely on your lifestyle.

 

Let’s check out the pros and cons of clear aligners vs braces.

What are the Advantages of Clear Aligners?

The advantages of clear aligner treatment are apparent. The main reason people choose them as the best cosmetic option for teeth straightening is that they are removable and unnoticeable.

 

You can remove your set of aligners for special events like weddings, family photos, or a first date. And you can remove them to brush and floss. Hence, patients that choose aligners or Invisalign treatment typically have better oral hygiene than those with traditional brackets and wires.

What are the Disadvantages of Clear Aligners?

Because clear aligners are removable, they only work when they are worn. This means that the majority of the responsibility for orthodontic success rests on you. To be perfectly clear, if you don’t wear them, they don’t work.

 

Another disadvantage is that Invisalign align technology stains easily. So you mustn’t eat or drink anything other than water while wearing them. There are also some limitations in the types of tooth movement it can correct. Complex or severe malocclusions achieve better success with traditional braces. Clear aligners are not available for younger children, and daily wear is at least 22 hours daily.

What are the Advantages of Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces have brackets, wires, and rubber bands to move the teeth into the desired position. Because the metal brackets are cemented to the front of the teeth, treatment success depends mainly on the dentist, not the patient. Those who struggle with consistency in wearing their aligners would have much better success with braces.

 

Braces are capable of more complicated tooth movements than aligners. In many cases, braces treatment time also works faster than aligners and is available for children, teens, and adults. 

What are the Disadvantages of Traditional Braces?

Many patients in the teen years and adulthood find the idea of wearing metal braces embarrassing. But do not worry; you don’t have to settle for metal; you can choose tooth-colored ceramic braces.

 

Traditional brackets make brushing and flossing difficult. Because of this, many people suffer from excessive plaque buildup or teeth staining during treatment. Plaque buildup causes bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.

Metal brackets and wires can cause discomfort by rubbing or cutting the cheeks, lips, and tongue.

Clear Aligners vs Braces | What’s Best for You?

Call My Orthodontist in Langhorne, PA, to schedule a consultation with our staff. We are happy to answer any questions about your orthodontic treatment options and help you decide if braces or Invisalign are the best for your unique teeth. My Orthodontist is your place for braces or Invisalign in Langhorne, Pennsylvania.