The debate between braces and clear aligners is one that has been around for years. Both have their pros and cons, but which one is really better? Here at Michael Regan, DMD Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we want you to understand the advantages and disadvantages of both braces and clear aligners to help you make the best decision for your smile. Our team of experienced professionals can help!What are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are clear plastic trays that are custom-made to fit over your teeth. They gently move your teeth into the desired position over the course of time. Clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces, as they are less visible and more comfortable for most users to wear.
If you're considering clear aligners, our team can assist you in making the best decision for your smile. We offer dental exams and consultations to determine your best options, and create a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals. Contact us today to learn more!
What are Braces?
Braces are a type of dental appliance that is used to correct alignment issues with the teeth. They are made up of brackets that are bonded to the teeth and connected by wires. The wires put pressure on the brackets, which slowly move the teeth into the desired position. Clear aligners are a newer alternative to braces. They are also used to correct alignment issues, but they are made of clear plastic and fit over the teeth like a mouthguard.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
If you’re considering clear aligners as an alternative to braces, you may be wondering how they work. Clear aligners are made from a clear, flexible plastic that is custom-fitted to your teeth. They gently move your teeth into alignment over time as each set is progressively different, guiding your smile to the end goal of being evenly aligned. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before being replaced with the next set in the series.
Clear aligners are virtually invisible, so most people won’t even know you’re wearing them. You can also remove them for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. This makes them more convenient than traditional braces, which can make it difficult to keep your teeth clean.
How Do Braces Work?
Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments used to straighten teeth and improve your smile. But how do they work?
The basic principle behind braces is simple: by applying pressure to your teeth, they can slowly be moved into the desired position. This is achieved by attaching metal brackets to your teeth and connecting them with a wire. As the wire is tightened, it puts pressure on your teeth and starts to move them.
Of course, braces are not just made of metal brackets and wires. There are also rubber bands or elastic that help to hold everything in place. And while traditional braces are still very effective, newer types of braces such as clear aligners can offer a more aesthetically pleasing option for some patients.
Are Clear Aligners Better Than Braces?
It’s a common question we get asked: are clear aligners better than braces? And while there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, we can help you figure out which option is best for you.
Braces have several benefits, including being more affordable than aligners, they have more uses than aligners, and the fact that they are less likely to be damaged or lost. However, there are also some drawbacks to braces, including them being more visible than aligners, they are sometimes uncomfortable, and they sometimes need to be worn for a longer period of time.
Aligners also have benefits and drawbacks. Patients love the fact that they are almost invisible when they are wearing them, they usually only need to be worn for six to 12 months, plus they like being able to remove them any time they need to clean their teeth or eat. The drawbacks are the fact that they tend to be more expensive than traditional braces.
Clear Aligner vs. Braces: Which is Right for You?
The average person probably doesn’t think about the different types of dental braces very often. But if you’re considering getting braces, it’s important to know that there are two main types: clear aligners and metal braces. Clear aligners are made of a transparent plastic material that is almost invisible when worn. Metal braces are the more traditional type of brace that consists of metal brackets and wires.
Here are some things to consider when trying to figure out which is best for you to choose:
| • | Appearance: If you’re worried about how metal braces will look, clear aligners may be the better option for you. They’re nearly invisible, so no one will be able to tell that you’re wearing them. |
| • | Comfort: Clear aligners are generally more comfortable to wear than metal braces. This is because they don’t have any sharp edges or wires that can hurt your gums or your cheeks. |
| • | Eating: There are no restrictions on what you can eat with clear aligners. With metal braces, however, you need to be careful about what you eat because certain foods can damage the brackets or get stuck in between the wires. |
| • | Cleaning: It can be difficult to keep metal braces clean because food can easily get stuck in them. Clear aligners, on the other hand, can be removed and brushed just like your regular teeth. |
We Can Help You Decide Which Option is Best for You
There's no easy answer to the question of whether clear aligners or braces are better. It depends on individual needs and preferences. However, we can help you figure out which option is right for you.
If you're considering clear aligners, we'll work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your unique needs. We'll also make sure you're comfortable with the aligners and know how to use them properly.
If you decide that braces are a better fit for you, we can help with that too. We'll work with you to find the right type of braces and make sure they're fitted properly. We'll also provide guidance on how to care for your braces and keep them clean.
Whichever option you choose, we're here to help you achieve the straight, healthy smile you deserve! Reach out to us here at Michael Regan, DMD Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry today by calling 503-654-8283 and we’ll set up a time for you to come in and talk!