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Traditional Braces Vs. Clear Aligners: Which One is Best?
Did you know that around one-third of the global population has worn metal braces? While metal braces have been a dependable method of treatment for orthodontic conditions, they are not the most aesthetically pleasing option. This has led to a steep rise in the usage of invisible aligners among other orthodontic treatments.
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Aligners and braces have different benefits and are perfect for aligning your smile to make it radiant and beautiful. Braces are heavyweight and have been around us for decades. However, aligners are invisible trays with innovative technology. But which one is right for you? Let’s find out!
What's the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces and clear aligners are two popular options for straightening teeth.
- Traditional braces, made up of metal brackets and wires, have been a trusted solution for many years and are capable of treating a wide range of complex dental misalignments. However, their noticeable appearance can be off-putting for some.
- Clear aligners offer a modern and nearly invisible alternative. Custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, they gently and gradually move your teeth into place. They're also removable, which facilitates eating and teeth cleaning. Nevertheless, invisible aligners require consistent wearing to be effective and might not be suitable for severe cases.
The best choice ultimately depends on your specific orthodontic needs and personal preferences.
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What's Better: Clear Aligners or Traditional Braces?
Aligners vs braces is one of the great topics to debate on. Both are highly effective methods to align your teeth and make your smile perfect. But clear aligners have advantages over traditional braces for those who value comfort, convenience, appearance, etc. Let’s dive in.
Invisibility Cloak for Your Teeth
Clear aligners are like a cloak on your teeth. They are designed with clear BPA-free plastic that makes them completely invisible. Invisible aligners are the first choice of teenagers who are conscious about their looks. Aligners allow you to straighten your teeth without dramatically changing your appearance. Whereas traditional braces are visible while you speak or smile.
Gradually, braces have been upgraded with ceramic brackets, but wires are still visible. So, discrete appearance is one of the significant advantages of clear aligners over metal braces.
Enjoy your Favorite Food with Freedom
With traditional braces, you are restricted to eating some foods like popcorn, chewing gum, nuts, whole fruits, etc. However, with aligners, you can enjoy your favorite foods anytime. You just have to simply remove the aligners and put them back once you are done eating.
Easy Cleaning Process
Brushing teeth with braces is a hassle. Several teenagers can’t brush their teeth properly with braces, and there are a multitude of spots for food or plaque to hide, which can lead to cavities or gum problems. On the other hand, aligners can be removed, which makes it easy to brush and floss your teeth properly. The aligners themselves are easy to clean, simply give them a quick brush or rinse.
Fewer Visits to Orthodontists
You need to visit your dentist each month for adjustments with metal braces. However, with aligners, you have given several sets of aligner trays at once, and each set needs to be worn for a specific period of time. Hence, clear aligners need fewer visits to the orthodontist, saving you time and making it a more convenient option for you in a busy schedule.
See the End Before the Beginning
With invisible aligners, you to see a digital representation of your transformation with the latest technology. It means you can see how your teeth will look after the treatment.
While all the above-mentioned pointers favor aligners. it is essential to note that a choice between aligners and braces should be made after the proper consultation with your orthodontist. There are some factors that play a significant role in choosing the best treatment option to get a perfect smile. Some factors are the complexity of the case, oral health, personal preference, etc.
What is the Cost of Both Treatments?
Generally, the cost of aligners and braces may lie between the range of INR 40,000 to INR 80,000 and INR 30,000 to INR 80,000 respectively and can vary from patient to patient. Your orthodontist will give the cost estimate after a complete dental evaluation and help you determine the best suitable personalized treatment plan.
Usually traditional braces are much more affordable than clear aligners. The price of clear aligners may vary greatly depending on the type of bite problem, the severity of the misalignment, the number of aligner sets required and the brand that your orthodontist chooses.
How Will the Doctor Choose the Best Option For You?
Choosing the best treatment between aligners and braces is not a decision that should be made on the basis of your choice only. It is a comprehensive process that involves a visual examination, in-depth consultation, and considering various factors. Here’re the factors mentioned to help you understand properly.
Dental MRI Evaluation
The first step involves an oral exam, x-rays, and impressions of your teeth. The orthodontist will evaluate your overall dental health as well as the type of misalignment you have.
Understanding Patient's Lifestyle and Preferences
During consultation, your orthodontist will discuss your lifestyle, oral hygiene habits and your comfort level to determine the best suitable option for you. Usually, teenagers are self-conscious about their appearance and choose clear aligners over braces simply due to their invisible nature and they are easy to use.
Assessing the Severity of the Case
Your orthodontist will check the severity of the case, which include large gaps between the teeth, extreme overcrowding, significant overbite or underbite, and cases that need vertical tooth movement. These cases might be better suited with metal braces. Aligners have various advantages and can treat many complex but there are some complex situations as discussed, traditional braces might be more beneficial.
Considering the Age of the Patient
Clear aligners can be used by anyone regardless of age but traditional braces are usually recommended to adults whose teeth and jaw are still growing.
Patient Commitment
Aligners require a commitment from the patient. They need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day and can only be removed while eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. If a patient is unlikely to comply with these requirements, metal braces that are fixed and work 24/7 might be a better option.
The decision on the best treatment, whether aligners or braces, is a joint one made by the patient and the orthodontist. Both treatments have their advantages and disadvantages, and the ultimate goal is to choose the one that will give the patient the best result in the most comfortable and convenient way.
To Sum Up
All in all, braces and aligners both efficiently and effectively correct your teeth misalignments. Braces are time-tested and usually favored for more severe misalignment. However, clear aligners provide modern conveniences such as invisibility, easy-to-maintain hygiene, removability etc. They integrate seamlessly into daily life, offering a discreet, customizable journey to a perfect smile.
Ultimately, the best choice aligns with individual needs and is determined in consultation with your orthodontist. The goal– a confident, radiant smile – remains constant. So, it's less about what's better and more about what's best for your personal dental journey.
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