Braces or Aligners?

Clear Aligners (ClearCorrect or Invisalign) are a solution for patients seeking a more discreet orthodontic treatment than conventional braces, as they do not use brackets or wires. They align teeth just as braces do, but using a transparent, removable aligners.

Aligners and Clear Braces Defined

• Aligners is a treatment option that relies on transparent, retainer-like aligners to shift teeth into place. You wear the aligners for no less than 22 hours per day, changing them every two weeks to a new pair that will continue shifting your teeth. The treatment typically takes nine months to a year.
• Clear (ceramic) braces: Clear braces are also known as ceramic braces due to the ceramic material used to create the brackets. The ceramic material can made to be either transparent or to match the color of the your teeth, camouflaging them.

The Differences Between Aligners and Clear Braces

Aligners and clear braces are similar in that they are much more difficult to detect than metal braces. Many people want to fix their teeth, but don’t want to look like they’re in high school again. Both treatments can provide a solution.

But while the two treatments have the same mission, there are stark differences between them.

1. Aligners are more transparent: One of patients’ favorite things about Aligners is its virtual transparency. Most people don’t even notice someone is wearing Aligners until they are told. While clear braces blend into the patient’s teeth, the brackets are more noticeable than Aligner’s transparent retainer.
2. Aligners can be removed: A big problem with ceramic braces is that they make brushing and flossing teeth difficult, as well as eating. Invisalign can be easily removed for both of these necessities, keeping your mouth healthy throughout the entire treatment process. However, this does take discipline. You must remove the aligner trays when you are eating or drinking (except water). Other than that, and brushing and flossing, the aligners must be worn for at least 20 hours per day.
3. Clear braces take fewer adjustments: For Aligners, trays must be changed every two weeks, compared to four weeks for adjustments with ceramic braces. This can mean more frequent trips to the dentist.

However, we will give you three sets of aligners per visit, so you only have to come in to pick them up once every six weeks.

Aligners and clear ceramic braces are both good options for someone who wants to correct their teeth inconspicuously. Still, there are stark differences between the two treatments and, depending on your case, one may be more appropriate than the other.