Should You Choose Clear Aligners or Braces?

Clear aligners and braces are the two most popular forms of orthodontic treatment, and they both have advantages and are effective forms of teeth straightening. Subsequently, it can be difficult for many patients to make the final decision about which option is most appropriate for them.

Clear aligners vs braces

By having a good understanding of both clear aligners and braces, including the advantages and drawbacks of each, making an informed, confident decision as to which option is best is much easier. The following is a complete overview of both clear aligners and braces, including how to choose between the two options.  

What are clear aligners?

Clear aligners are transparent orthodontic devices that are worn by the patient for the majority of each day. Each aligner is customized to fit the patient’s exact needs, ensuring the teeth are brought into a more well-aligned position. Perhaps the biggest benefit of clear aligners is the ability to straighten teeth in a more discrete manner without other people noticing. Unlike braces, clear aligners can be removed by the patient at any moment, which makes caring for teeth and eating much easier. They are often the most ideal for patients who have a mild to moderate misalignment.

What are braces?

Braces utilize brackets and a metal wire to straighten misaligned teeth.  They are incredibly effective and have been a very popular form of orthodontic care for multiple decades. There are several different types of braces for patients to choose from, including traditional metal braces, lingual braces and ceramic braces. Perhaps the biggest benefit of braces is the ability to straighten more severe misalignments, whereas clear aligners may only be able to treat mild to moderate misalignments. Since braces cannot be removed, however, they may require more diet restrictions throughout treatment.

How to choose the right treatment for you

The choice between clear aligners and braces can be difficult, and it can be helpful to know when each one might be the most appropriate solution. In many instances, the decision is largely dependent on the needs of the patient. Clear aligners are not always an option, and braces might be the best solution for patients who have severe misalignments. In the event both clear aligners and braces are viable options, the decision may be based more on the patient’s personal preference. If the patient favors the transparent nature of clear aligners, then they make for a better option, whereas braces might be best for patients who do not want the responsibility of keeping their aligners clean at all times.

Talk to an orthodontist about your options

If you are interested in straightening your teeth and gaining a more attractive smile, then consult with one of our orthodontists today and schedule a time to come in for an initial visit and discuss treatment options that are available for you. Orthodontic treatment has advanced in the past decade, and now just about everyone has the opportunity to fix misalignments in their smile through braces or clear aligners.

Request an appointment here: or call Gilroy Dental Associates at (408) 842-2818 for an appointment in our Gilroy office.

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