Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Before you or your child gets braces, you can often choose between braces and clear aligners, depending on the level of correction needed. In this blog post we’ll help you make your choice by laying out the basics of both.

Clear Aligners

With Invisalign^®, a series of clear trays custom-made out of smooth plastic gradually move your teeth into place. Here are the pros and cons:

• Clear aligners aren’t completely invisible, of course, but they’re pretty close to it, making them a favored option for many adult patients.
• The trays are removable, so they aren’t worn while eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth.
• They are a comfortable option made of clear, smooth plastic, fitting pretty seamlessly into the mouth.

• Although the clear aligners are removable, taking them on and off isn’t something you should be doing other than when you eat, drink, and brush your teeth. In order for the straightening to succeed, compliance is critical and the aligners need to be on your teeth 20-22 hours each day.
• When you temporarily take off your aligners, it’s important to keep track of them! You don’t want to have to go digging through the trash after mistakenly throwing out your aligners.
• Some patients may experience mild discomfort when adjusting to a new tray.
• Clear aligners are usually not recommended for those with severe misalignment, and instead are best for correcting only mild to moderate issues.

Braces

Braces are a popular option for a variety of reasons!

• Braces are time-tested, durable, and cost-effective. We offer both metal and ceramic options.
• Since they’re not coming off until your treatment is over, you don’t have to worry about losing them or forgetting to wear them.
• Braces are a versatile treatment that can treat the widest range of malocclusion and misalignment issues, from mild to severe.
• With colored bands, a little bit of customization is available that can make braces fun for both kids and adults.

• Patients may find braces to be mildly uncomfortable and sore-feeling at times, especially when initially installed and when tightened. The brackets and wires can also cause temporary irritation to the mouth and lips.
• String flossing takes a bit more effort with traditional braces. Fortunately, water flossing can make flossing easier and more enjoyable for those wearing braces.
• Metal braces are more noticeable than clear aligners. However, ceramic braces are not as visible.

We Can Perfect Your Smile!

Still not sure which option is the best for you? Get in touch with our expert team. A consultation is the first step on the road to a flawless smile. Contact us today to set up your orthodontic consultation at Meason Orthodontics in Weatherford, TX.

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Categorised in: Clear Braces, Invisalign, Orthodontics