Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Option is Better for You?

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braces vs clear aligners which option is better for you

Those who are considering aligning their smiles and boosting their confidence typically have a lot of questions about which form of orthodontic treatment is best for them: clear aligners or braces in Orlando?

It is important to keep in mind that there is no “one size fits all” option when it comes to orthodontic treatment, and the best place to start is by visiting our team at All About Smiles Ortho for an accurate diagnosis. From there, there are several factors that you can consider when choosing between braces and clear aligners:

Braces

The majority of orthodontic problems can be successfully treated with the correct application of braces near you. Braces have been in use for decades, and there are many kinds available today- gold, ceramic, lingual, stainless steel, and more. Here are some things to think about when considering braces:

  • Visibility – While there are more discrete options for braces, such as ceramic braces or lingual braces, which are applied behind the teeth, it isn’t realistic to expect your braces to be entirely invisible in your mouth. Certain elements such as elastics and wires will be more obvious in your mouth, no matter which form of braces you choose.
  • Comfort- When you first get braces, it is normal to experience some initial discomfort, and you may re-experience this discomfort any time you get them adjusted by an orthodontist in Orlando. This discomfort is mostly due to the initial irritation of the inner cheeks and gums but will subside pretty quickly.
  • Hygiene- Patients with braces need to work extra hard to keep their teeth free of food debris and plaque so bacteria can’t eat away at the tooth enamel or cause gum disease. You must commit to learning how to properly floss and brush around your brackets and wires.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners use a series of clear, plastic trays to move your teeth into alignment. Aligners are a more discrete and convenient aligning option for many patients. Here are some things you should know about clear aligners:

  • Visibility- Aligners are custom-designed by an orthodontist near you to be virtually invisible in your mouth and make for an inconspicuous treatment. Sometimes, attachments are necessary for these aligners, but they will be matched to your tooth for the most discreet appearance possible.
  • Comfort- While there may be a small amount of initial discomfort when switching between aligners, the discomfort is temporary and easily managed. However, it is important to note that you should not remove your aligners to manage discomfort because they need to remain in your mouth for at least 22 hours a day to be effective.
  • Hygiene- When you are wearing your aligners, you should only drink water and avoid any other form of beverage. Your teeth need to be clean when the aligners are in your mouth. Since you can remove your aligners to brush and floss your teeth, you won’t need to worry about adjusting your oral hygiene routine. 

Visit All About Smiles Ortho

If you are interested in learning more about the best kind of orthodontic treatment for your specific needs, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated team of dental professionals at All About Smiles Ortho. We are happy to evaluate your smile and personal desires to help you choose the best aligning treatment.