Smile correction is one of the famous treatment categories in dentistry. Straightened and aligned teeth and a bright and shiny smile are important requisites for many people. But the benefits of orthodontic treatment do not only focus on smile correction. It also helps maintain proper dental hygiene, prevents tooth decay, and prevents many underlying gum diseases. There are lots of questions in a patient’s mind. One of them is choosing between braces and aligners.
Book an appointment with a dentist in Salina, Kansas, to discuss which is ideal for you– braces or aligners.
Braces vs. aligners– which is best?
Aligners are customized plastic orthodontic tools that fit your teeth. Each aligner makes smaller movements in your teeth to reach its final position. Small composite resins are also added between the teeth to assist the aligner, creating a firm grip around the tooth.
Braces are a traditional orthodontic treatment used since the ancient period. It can be both metal and clear braces. They consist of brackets fixed onto the teeth, connected by wires and tiny rubber bands. The wires and brackets keep the teeth under constant yet gentle pressure to align them.
Difference between metal braces and clear aligners
- Treatment length
It varies according to the individual. Conventional braces can take up to 1 to 3 years, whereas aligners can align the teeth between six months to two years, depending upon the individual case.
- Removability
Metal or conventional braces are permanently fixed to our teeth. They stick to our tooth layer and are joined with a wire. On the other hand, aligners are not fixed to our teeth. Clear aligners are removable appliances and can be worn anytime, depending on the patient’s convenience.
- Cleaning
Most patients are afraid of getting braces because they are hard to clean. It is true because metal braces require more attention than the aligners in case of cleaning. Flossing, regular brushing, and regularly visiting the dental clinic are must for metal braces. In the case of clear aligners, maintaining and cleaning them is relatively easy.
- Maintenance
Metal braces require frequent and thorough cleaning, regular orthodontic visits, and temperance from specific foods. But clear aligners are different. They are removable appliances and need to be worn 22 hours a day. Regular flossing and cleaning the mouth are a must, and they should be soaked in water all night.
Clear aligners are the best choice for patients who do not want to know people about their dental treatment. Also, the number of appointments required in clear aligners is usually lesser and is relatively shorter.
Clear aligners are a perfect choice for people who want comfort over anything. Traditional braces come with various metal attachments and wires.