Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with malaligned and crooked teeth. It brings about tooth movement with orthodontic forces through wires and braces. Recent advances in orthodontics involve the use of aligners. Let's dive into this debate of Braces v/s Aligners.

Traditional Braces

The common traditional braces that have been in use for so many years include the metal braces. There is wire used in the mouth with metal brackets affixed on the teeth and they are held together by rubber bands. Tightening of the wire is carried out at specific times and is conducted by an Orthodontist, after which there is a slow repositioning of the teeth.Ths method has some degree of effectiveness hence could be said to be reliable.

Advantages of Traditional Braces:

Effectiveness: Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry, which provides treatment on alignment of a patient’s teeth and jaws, in situations where a patient has crowded teeth, spaces between teeth and jaws that do not meet.

Predictability: The final results that are possible with tightly aligned conventional braces are very predictable.

No Compliance Needed: Compared to aligners, however, braces are directly bonded to the dental enamel, and, therefore, there cannot be any non-cooperation on the side of the patient as there is compulasary need to visit a dental clinic monthly.. This makes them quite ideal for use especially for the young patients, or patients who may have some challenges exercising restraint in the usage of aligners.

Disadvantages of Traditional Braces:

Aesthetics: The final but not the least on the drawbacks of the traditional type of braces is that they stand as noticeable. Some of the visible fixed orthodontic treatment components include metal brackets and wires, though this may cause discomfort especially to the picky patients.

Comfort: Orthodontic braces are considered to be making their wearers slightly uncomfortable especially during the time when the Orthodontist is adjusting the braces. This is because; The metal components can also irritate the inside of the mouth.

Maintenance: Sadly, hygiene around the mouth with braces produces a real problem in brushing as well as flossing around them. Regular follow ups at dental clinics are necessary. That is why cleaning the area around the brackets and wires is quite a time-consuming process; otherwise, plaque starts to build up, and that is followed by various dental-related problems.

Clear Aligners

Aligners are customised and designed as a series of aligner trays. After examination by an orthodontist digital scans or impressions of the patient's teeth are made in the dental office. A precise 3D model of the patient's mouth is made using technology. These clear and individually designed appliances are inserted over the teeth and replaced every one to two weeks to move the teeth. There is no compulsion to visit a dental clinic every month. Gaylord Dentist can help you evaluate if you are a perfect candidate for aligners.

Advantages of Clear Aligners:

Aesthetics: There are clear aligners that are barely visible thus appealing to adults and teenagers who would not want people to know that they have braces on.

Comfort: Described as clear covers made from smooth plastic material, aligners are not as uncomfortable as the braces you shall be having, because they don’t have any metal part that can chafe your mouth all day.

Convenience: These can be removed while eating or drinking anything, brushing, flossing or while sleeping and thus many patients do not need to stick to any restricted diet.

Disadvantages of Clear Aligners:

Compliance: This means that the aligners created can be as useful as the patient that is using them desires. They are to be worn for twenty to twenty two hours a day which can be slightly uncomfortable.

Limitations: It is important to realise that all orthodontic cases are not well suited for aligner therapy. They are chiefly common for minor to moderate dental issues and they are not as flexible as the braces.

Cost: It should be noted that clear aligners cost might be higher than the regular braces, insurance may vary. Dental clinics can give you an estimated budget for the aligners.

Making the Right Choice

Both clear aligners and traditional braces can effectively offer orthodontic correction but they have certain differences for instance, the nature of the condition to be addressed, people’s daily activities, appearance aspiration and their ability to pay for the treatment. The other crucial factor is that consulting an orthodontist will make one aware of the approach that is most effective in the particular scenario being considered. Based on this, it can be concluded that the two devices which include clear aligners and the conventional braces are equally effective in the technique of aligning the teeth and enhancing the overall health of the mouth.

Smile and Solutions at Gaylord Dental Clinic Braces V/s Aligners