Have crooked teeth ever been an issue for you? To many teens and adults, misaligned teeth have always been a setback in being a fully confident person. Thankfully, we have procedures like braces to straighten out your teeth.
But what if you hate the idea of metal brackets in your mouth? Clear aligners are another contender that will turn a crooked smile straight.
Metal Braces vs. Clear Aligners
Metal braces are perhaps the most popular option for straightening your teeth. They consist of stainless steel brackets bonded to your teeth, with wires that thread through the brackets. The wires remain affixed to the brackets by tiny rubber bands that hold them in place. These wires will then place a gentle force that pulls your teeth to align them properly.
Clear aligners, on the other hand, are thin, clear trays made to fit your teeth. Like braces, aligners place a constant, gentle pressure to move your teeth into place. Perhaps the biggest advantage with clear aligners is you’re allowed to take them out. But that also means you are more responsible for the results. Patients who wear their aligners longer and more often get faster results.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Clear aligners do have some benefits that braces don’t. For example, brushing and flossing are easier since aligners can be removed for cleaning. Plus, you can take them out while eating, so food won’t get stuck like with metal braces.
Aligners also don’t have brackets or wires that can snap off or loosen, so they’re likely to require fewer repairs and emergency visits to your dentist. Best of all, clear aligners are virtually invisible. As a result, many people won’t even be able to tell you’re wearing them at all.
Getting the Treatment
Of course, you’ll need to see your orthodontist or dentist for these procedures. They will then give you an in-depth oral exam, including X-rays and images of your head and mouth. After which, they will take an impression of your teeth and use it as a guide to planning your treatment.
Metal braces require a trip to the orthodontist every four to six weeks for adjustments. You will also likely wear braces for one to three years. However, your dentist may devise a better use of your time frame after developing your treatment plan.
Aligners have quite a different approach. Your orthodontist will be giving you several sets, with each set worn for about one to two weeks. Your dentist will advise you to wear your aligners for 22 hours a day and they must only be taken out for eating, brushing and flossing. It’s the same with braces as patients will also need to wear retainers after braces to ensure the best results.
So Which One Should You Get?
Both are worth getting, but the best treatment for you depends on your case and time frame. Traditional braces tend to be more effective at adjusting teeth with severe overcrowding. They are also more affordable than aligners. And because they’re fixed to your teeth, you won’t ever have to worry about losing or misplacing them.
However, a study found that aligners have a shorter average total treatment time than metal braces.
Get the Perfect Teeth!
Do you want a better, more beautiful smile, but metal braces intimidate you? Speak to our clear aligner specialists at Langmore Dental in Berwick, and we’ll discuss your options. Who knows, clear aligners might be the better solution for you. So book your appointment now to achieve stunning, straight teeth!
