BRACES V/S CLEAR ALIGNERS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Deciding to have your teeth straightened is always a good idea! The good thing about orthodontic
dental treatments that use braces or invisible aligners is that they do more than just straighten the
teeth; these are also valuable in diagnosing and correcting bite issues that often require special
attention.
Today’s patient has a choice that patients many years ago didn’t have; and one of those
choices is braces vs clear aligners. Traditional braces, make use of metal wires with an aim of
getting the most ideal movement or position for the teeth; while invisible aligners utilizes a set of
clear plastic trays as a means of achieving ideal tooth position.
Some common factors to consider for braces and clear aligners are as follows:
| Braces | Clear Aligners | |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Noticeable | Virtually invisible |
| Removability | Fixed | Removable |
| Comfort | Less comfortable | More comfortable |
| Hygiene Maintenance | Difficult | Easier |
| Diet | Avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, chewy food | No dietary restrictions |
One appliance is not inherently better than another. Regardless of the type of appliance used, some
things are mandatory to all patients. For example, all patients must brush and floss their teeth
regularly and they need to wear retainers as recommended.
Which Option is Best for You?
Your Orthodontist will explain you pros and cons of each option and explain why it is suitable
or not for ‘you’. Once you have all the information, it’s up to you to decide which option suits
your level of commitment & lifestyle.
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