For those with orthodontic issues, the obvious goal is straighter teeth. Needless to say, the most common solutions to achieve this are clear aligners and braces. While they both help patients with orthodontic issues ensure straighter teeth and healthier smiles, one solution won’t be as effective as the other. The reason of course is that clear aligners won’t correct every orthodontic issue. Likewise, braces may be overkill for orthodontic issues that are considered mild to moderate.

This guide will provide you with factors to consider in the head-to-head matchup between clear aligners vs braces. Let’s get started with everything you need to know (even before your initial consultation appointment).

Aesthetics

Starting with aesthetics, this is one of the most critical deciding factors. When it comes to clear aligners vs braces, one solution is noticeable while the other is not. Traditional braces feature the typical brackets and wires that are visible whenever you talk or smile. With clear aligners, they are less than noticeable.

At Bordentown Braces, we offer clear aligners such as Angel Aligner and Spark Aligners. Both of which are invisible and will help patients achieve the result of a straighter smile. Of course, they won’t draw attention to the process itself. For those reasons, they are an excellent option for patients of almost all ages – especially teens to adults.

Comfort and Convenience

Another crucial factor that will help you decide between clear aligners vs braces is comfort. It’s obvious that traditional metal braces can cause irritation because of the bracket and wires. As a result, common issues include sores on the lips and inner cheek and general discomfort. Not to mention, discomfort can also occur during times when the braces need to be tightened – a common occurrence for those who go through the process.

Meanwhile, clear aligners will be smooth and custom-fitted according to your teeth. This means that you will deal with lesser instances of irritation. It will apply lesser amounts of pressure compared to traditional braces, meaning you will deal with less discomfort throughout the entire treatment process. Yes, comfort is everything when it comes to orthodontic treatments and our orthodontic team at Bordentown Braces will do their best to make it so.

Treatment Duration

The duration of treatment is vastly different between aligners and braces. Of course, this will depend on certain factors like the severity of the orthodontic issue and the method of treatment that is applied by an orthodontist in NJ. While the duration is on average, it will also depend on the individual. In other words, some treatments may take longer than average or shorter. Here’s the common time table to consider for each treatment option:

Traditional braces: Today, the traditional braces approach will apply to more complex orthodontic issues. The treatment can last anywhere between 18 months to approximately three years. This will be depending on the severity of the issue. Keep in mind the treatment plan could take longer if the patient is not as consistent with the treatment plan.

Clear aligners: On average, it’ll take anywhere from 12 to 18 months for clear aligners near you to get the job done. Once again, patient compliance and the severity of the case will be applicable factors to how long the treatment actually takes for each patient. For example, if the patient is compliant in wearing their aligners for the recommended daily time period of 20 to 22 hours, they will be more than likely to complete their treatment on time.

Maintenance and Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene will be a consideration that should be evaluated accordingly when deciding on aligners vs braces. Traditional braces are notorious for trapping food particles between the brackets and wires. For this reason, brushing and flossing will be a challenge. As such, patients will need to follow their oral hygiene plan to prevent common dental issues from happening – especially cavities and gum disease.

Clear aligners are removable and will make the oral hygiene process a lot easier. Nevertheless, you still want to follow a plan to brush and floss daily. Regardless if you wear aligners or braces, visiting your dentist twice a year should also be done to ensure that your oral health goes the distance. Keep in mind that you will need to clean your aligner trays on a regular basis to prevent the buildup of bacteria that can be detrimental to your oral health.

Food Restrictions

This is where things can get quite complicated. Adjusting to dietary restrictions can be a huge adjustment to one’s daily life. A patient that wears traditional braces will need to avoid such foods like sticky candy, hard nuts (and other hard foods) and even popcorn. The reason for this is that they have the ability to damage the brackets and wires. In turn, this will lead to emergency orthodontist visits to repair the appliances and further set back your treatment plan – resulting in reaching your goals beyond the originally planned time period.

Clear aligners will eliminate this issue altogether because of their removability. There are no dietary restrictions to apply. However, we do recommend that you eat healthy foods that can help with oral health as opposed to endangering it. Healthy fruits and veggies will be an excellent option along with water and other low-sugar beverage options. If you do indulge in the sweet things (and we’re not saying it’s wrong to do with aligner treatment), be sure to brush your teeth and floss them.

Aligners or Braces? Call Bordentown Braces For A Consultation Now

It’s a tough decision to make. But it doesn’t have to be. At Bordentown Braces, we will make sure that your needs are met accordingly. A consultation appointment will begin the process towards a straighter and healthier smile. No matter what the treatment approach will be, rest assured that the desirable result will be achieved – a straighter, healthier smile and a more confident version of yourself.

Ready to see what’s the best option for you? Call us today at 609-291-8555 and we’ll set up the consultation appointment to determine the best course of action.