For the longest time, traditional metal braces have been the go-to option when it comes to giving children and also adults a winning smile. If you think back at your childhood, so many friends had metallic braces. We can place a bet on whether you had them as well. Clear aligners are also being considered when it comes to teeth alignment. Orthodontic aligners have been receiving good reviews from both dentists and patients alike. Traditional users would however want to stick to the tried and tested metal braces.
So how do the two compare? Should you go with the new age orthodontic aligners or stick with the metal braces. To help you make that choice for you or your kid, we compiled some pertinent information on both.
First to the basics
Both clear aligners and traditional metal braces were made to straighten teeth and correct their alignment. Braces have been around since long before the turn of the century while aligners were introduced into the market in the early 2000s. Another huge difference that sets these two apart is the material used and also the process of teeth straightening.
Traditional metal braces make use of metal brackets that are connected used small metallic ties and wires. The metal brackets and wires which are tied to the enamel of every tooth help to shape your teeth over time.
Traditional braces are irremovable and thus have a much shorter treatment time than aligners. With regards to cost, traditional metal braces are a cheaper option. The biggest determiner is usually the complexity of the patient’s dental problem. For patients who are involved in a contact sport, metal braces are not recommended. The metal can permanently damage your teeth or tissue upon contact.
Clear aligners on the other hand are clear plastic trays that are designed to be worn over your teeth. In their design, the orthodontist makes use of x-rays as well as digital scans to develop aligners that perfectly match your dental formation. Clear aligners are preferred by adults due to their ‘invisible’ nature.
Clear aligners are removable and more comfortable as a result of their design process. It is slightly more expensive as a result. Most patients, especially adults, prefer aligners over braces due to their clear appearance. It is almost impossible to spot aligners. This treatment option is very discreet. However, for patients with complex teeth issues, clear aligners might not be the best-suited treatment option.
Final Comparison
Making a comparison between these two treatment options can be a hard task. Both have several advantages and disadvantages. The final decision comes down to the patient. The doctor can always advise depending on particular unique circumstances. Every case is heterogeneous and should be treated so.
