When considering orthodontic treatment, choosing between invisible aligners and traditional braces is a significant decision that affects both your oral health and daily life.
Understanding the key differences between these orthodontic options can help you make an informed choice that best suits your needs and lifestyle when straightening your teeth.
So, how do invisible braces compare to traditional braces? Is one better than the other? Here’s what you need to know.
Traditional Braces: The Time-Tested Solution
Traditional braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets attached to teeth, connected by wires and elastic bands. Modern brackets are smaller and less noticeable than their predecessors, but some people still don’t like the altered appearance that can come with traditional braces [1].
Invisible Aligners: The Modern Alternative
Invisible braces, or clear aligners, are custom-made series of transparent, removable trays that gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. These nearly invisible appliances have revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering a more discreet and comfortable option for teeth straightening.
Treatment Effectiveness and Duration
Both clear aligners and regular braces can effectively treat various orthodontic issues, but their capabilities differ [2].
Traditional braces excel at correcting severe misalignment, rotation issues, and significant bite problems, while clear aligners work best for mild to moderate alignment issues. Clear aligners are particularly effective for adults with previous orthodontic treatment.
Treatment time varies by case, but traditional braces typically require 18-24 months on average, while invisible aligners might complete treatment in 12-18 months for some cases.
Comfort and Adaptation
Traditional braces initially cause more discomfort and require longer adaptation periods. Patients often experience soreness after adjustments, including potential soft tissue irritation from brackets and wires. Patients are also more limited in the foods they can eat.
Clear aligners are different. They allow for more comfortable daily wear and are completely removable. As such, patients aren’t limited in their diet, and they generally don’t cause gum or cheek irritation. Many patients appreciate the comfort of clear aligners as opposed to metal or ceramic braces.Â
Maintenance and Care Requirements
The care for traditional braces differs from that of clear aligners. With regular braces, it’s important to brush around brackets and wires to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria, which can be challenging for some patients and often requires special tools. Floss threaders or water flossers are also necessary for properly flossing teeth.
Invisible aligners are a bit different. Since they can be removed, they allow patients to brush and floss their teeth normally. This means that most patients have better periodontal (gum) health with clear aligners than those with regular braces [3]. Clear aligners do still need to be brushed daily to ensure cleanliness and prevent staining.
Ask Your Orthodontist About Traditional vs. Invisible Braces
Ready to start your journey to a straighter smile? Contact your orthodontist today for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment recommendation for regular braces or clear aligners. Your perfect smile is just a consultation away!
Sources:
- https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/braces-vs-clear-aligners/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6343314/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4478712/Â
