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Aligners and Braces – Which is Best for You?
Clear Aligners and metal or ceramic braces are orthodontic devices that correct misaligned teeth and help an individual achieve a straighter smile. Each option has its own set of advantages, making the choice between aligners and braces a personal decision based on individual needs and preferences.
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Braces consist of metal brackets bonded to the teeth, connected by wires, and adjusted periodically to shift the teeth into proper alignment gradually. On the other hand, clear aligners are clear, removable trays that are custom-made to fit over the teeth and gradually align them into position.
The decision between aligners and braces should be made in consultation with a qualified orthodontist, who can assess the severity of misalignment, oral health, and lifestyle factors to determine the most suitable treatment option.
In this blog, we will understand the difference between aligners and braces and which will be the best option for you.
Table of Contents
Braces vs Clear Aligners
Braces and clear aligners are two popular options for orthodontic treatment. Both methods aim to straighten teeth and improve the overall alignment of the jaw. However, there are several differences between braces and clear aligners that patients should consider when deciding which option is best for them.
Comfort
Braces consist of metal brackets that are bonded to the teeth and connected by a wire. They are effective in treating various dental issues, braces can cause discomfort and irritation due to the friction between the brackets and the soft tissues of the mouth.
Clear aligners are made of smooth, BPA-free plastic and are custom-made to fit easily over the teeth. They provide a more comfortable experience as they do not have any sharp edges or wires that can cause irritation. Overall, clear aligners offer a higher level of comfort compared to braces.
Removability
Braces are not removable and stay in place throughout the treatment duration, which can range from months to years. This fixed nature of braces puts continuous pressure on the teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position. While braces are effective, they can be inconvenient for eating and brushing, as certain food restrictions apply, and thorough oral hygiene is required.
Clear aligners are removable trays made of transparent plastic. They are custom-made to fit over the teeth and are replaced every few weeks to facilitate tooth movement. The ability to remove clear aligners makes eating and oral hygiene easier, as there are no food restrictions and brushing and flossing can be done without obstruction. However, their removability is an advantage, but they must be worn for the recommended 20-22 hours per day for optimal results.
Discreet
Braces are dental devices that are highly visible when a person smiles or speaks. Their noticeable appearance often affects the self-confidence of the person.
Clear aligners are virtually invisible. They are made from transparent plastic material and easily set over the teeth. This makes them a popular choice for youth who desire a more discreet orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners allow patients to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their orthodontic appliances.
Hygiene
Braces are attached to the teeth through visible wires. They can make oral hygiene more challenging as food particles, and plaque can easily get trapped in the wires and brackets. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Clear aligners are removable and can be removed during meals and oral hygiene routines. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene as the aligners can be cleaned separately. However, it is still important to brush and floss aligners as well before putting them back in to ensure optimal hygiene.
Eating Habits
With Braces, you have to be very careful with certain type of foods - apples, candies etc. Brace brackets stick to the teeth with a special adhesive, if you put too much force to cut and chew your hard food, they can pop off. If this happen, you must go to dentist and get them replaced. Additionally, eating sticky foods like candy and sweets can stick and cause issues.
Clear aligners can let you free to eat anything you want. You can take the clear aligners out while you are eating and keep them in the box. You can brush your teeth after eating and put on your aligners easily.
Cost Effective
Braces, made of metal or ceramic, are often more affordable compared to clear aligners. They are a tried and tested method that has been used for decades. However, braces require regular adjustments, which can increase the overall cost of treatment. Additionally, the visibility of braces may be a concern for some individuals.
The average cost of dental braces treatment in India ranges from INR 30,000 to Rs. 80,000.
While the initial cost of clear aligners may be higher than braces, they typically require fewer visits to the orthodontist, resulting in potential cost savings. However, clear aligners may not be suitable for complex orthodontic cases.
The clear aligners' price in India can range from INR 80,000 – 1,20,000 after considering the level of correction required.
Fast
Braces consist of metal brackets and wires that apply continuous pressure to move teeth into the desired position gradually. The treatment duration with braces typically ranges from 18 to 36 months.
Clear aligners are designed to be changed every two weeks, gradually shifting teeth into alignment. Clear aligners offer a faster treatment speed compared to braces, with an average treatment duration of 9 to 18 months. This makes clear aligners a popular choice for individuals seeking quicker orthodontic treatment.
Quick Comparison of Clear Aligners vs. Braces
| Clear Aligners | Braces |
| Clear Aligners are removable. | Braces are not removable. |
| Need to wear up to 20-22 hours a day. | Must be worn 24/7 as they are not removable. |
| Easy to maintain and clean. | Tough to maintain and cannot be put off and cleaned. |
| Virtually invisible | Visible while smiling or talking |
| Can eat anything by removing them. | Need to avoid certain foods. |
| Lesser risk of damage to the aligners. | High risk of damage to the braces brackets. |
Summary
To put it simply, both braces and clear aligners can effectively straighten teeth and improve their alignment. However, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences, treatment goals, and budget. Braces consist of metal brackets and wires that are fixed to the teeth, while clear aligners are transparent, removable trays that gradually shift the teeth. Braces are typically more noticeable but may be more suitable for complex cases, while aligners offer a more discreet option. Consulting with an orthodontist is crucial to determine the most suitable option for one's specific needs, ensuring optimal results and satisfaction.
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