Orthodontic treatment options used to be quite limited, but today, there are many choices available. Straight Smiles Orthodontics is here to help answer this question: Are there other options to traditional braces?
Two Primary Approaches
We will delve deeper into these options, but here are the most basic descriptions of traditional braces and clear aligners:
- Traditional braces use various components to gradually make teeth straight, with regular adjustments being made from Dr. Tom Rafaill, Dr. Nicholas Rafaill, and our team. These braces can be made from metal or ceramic brackets.
- Clear aligners, like Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners, are worn as trays that move your teeth into alignment over time. Each new set of aligners makes minor adjustments from the previous one until a new smile is in place.
Compare + Contrast
The decision is ultimately yours, in collaboration with our doctors. You can trust us—we’re the longest-running family-owned orthodontic practice in the great state of Michigan, serving patients since 1961.
Our team will take into account various factors specific to your condition and treatment goals. During our initial appointments, we’ll discuss and evaluate some key comparisons between braces and clear aligners, such as:
- Comfort:
- Clear Aligners: These custom-made plastic trays fit snugly over your teeth with smooth edges, reducing the likelihood of gum and cheek irritation. As a result, they generally offer greater comfort compared to traditional braces.
- Braces: Traditional braces may cause discomfort initially and can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth. Patients often experience soreness after adjustments or from wires and brackets rubbing against the cheeks or lips, though this typically subsides over time.
- Aesthetics:
- Clear Aligners: Many adult and teenage patients appreciate the nearly invisible appearance of clear aligners, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer a discreet treatment option.
- Braces: Traditional metal braces are more visible due to the use of metal brackets and possibly colored elastic bands.
- Maintenance:
- Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are removable and allow for easy cleaning of both the aligners and your teeth. Patients can maintain their regular brushing and flossing routines without obstruction.
- Braces: Braces require specialized tools like interdental brushes, floss threaders, and water flossers for thorough cleaning. Food particles can accumulate around wires and brackets, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Treatment Duration:
- Clear Aligners: Treatment duration typically ranges from 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case and patient compliance.
- Braces: Treatment with braces can vary widely, usually lasting between 18 months to 3 years, depending on the severity of the orthodontic issues.
- Effectiveness:
- Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are effective for treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, gaps, and minor bite problems. However, they may not be suitable for more severe cases.
- Braces: Braces can address a broader range of orthodontic problems, including complex misalignment, overcrowding, overbites, crossbites, and underbites. Their fixed components provide precise control over tooth movement, making them ideal for complex cases.
- Adjustments:
- Clear Aligners: Treatment involves switching to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, gradually shifting your teeth. These adjustments are managed at home, with periodic progress checks at Straight Smiles Orthodontics.
- Braces: Adjustments are done in-office every four to six weeks by our team. During these visits, wires may be tightened or replaced, and bracket adjustments are made as needed.
- Dietary Restrictions:
- Clear Aligners: Since clear aligners are removable, patients can enjoy most foods without issue, though it’s still advisable to minimize excessive sugar intake for oral health.
- Braces: Patients with braces should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage the wires and brackets. Foods like nuts, popcorn, and hard candies may need to be completely avoided.
- Speech:
- Clear Aligners: Adapting to clear aligners might cause temporary changes in speech due to the presence of the trays. Most patients adjust quickly, and any speech difficulties usually resolve within days.
- Braces: Braces can also impact speech, especially with certain sounds that require contact between the tongue and teeth. With practice, speech patterns typically normalize over time.
A Clear Compromise
It’s also important to remember that clear braces offer an excellent middle ground between these two options. They maintain the same structure and components as traditional braces but feature brackets that blend in with your teeth, offering a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Making the Right Choice
Both options come with their own benefits, and whichever you choose, we are committed to helping you achieve your perfect smile. If you’re considering your treatment options, we hope this blog has provided helpful insights. Our dedicated doctors span three generations of professionals—and it’s a difference you can feel. Come visit us in Shelby Township, Novi, and Rochester Hills today.