Braces or Aligners?

Which is best for you?

There are many appliances used in Orthodontics, all of which apply forces on the teeth to move them into their ideal position. For the sake of this presentation, we will divide them into two groups.

The Braces and the Aligners.

What are the main differences between Braces and Aligners?

Braces are fixed on your teeth and cannot be removed, making treatment time more predictable, as they continuously work on the teeth, 24 hours a day. Aligners, on the other hand, must be removed for eating and for teeth brushing and flossing, which can slow down treatment as the teeth are left without forces when the aligners are removed.

Braces are highly effective in treating all types of misalignment, including both simple and complex cases. Aligners on the other hand, may not be suitable for treating severe misalignment or complex cases.

Braces are suitable for teenagers as they cannot be removed following their mood swings. Aligners, however, may not be suitable for children and teens as they may have a tendency to remove them for longer periods of time. This is less of an issue for adults, who are usually more highly motivated and committed to the treatment process, and will typically follow the prescribed rule of wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours a day. Braces are visible, although they can come in a clear type that makes them less noticeable. Aligners, however, are less visible than any type of braces.

Braces are generally more affordable as they are done by the orthodontist only. Treatment with aligners, on the other hand, can cost much more than braces, as the orthodontist needs to have the trays made by a specialized dental lab, which will add to the overall cost.

Now that you have more details about braces and aligners, you can choose which option is better for you.

If your priority is how you will look during the treatment, then aligners may be the best option for you as they are less visible than braces.

However, if your priority is how you will look after the treatment, then braces may be the best option for you as they are more economical and can provide faster results.

And if you still have some doubts, it is best to consult with our professional orthodontist at Ramzi Assi Dental Center. They are highly experienced in both braces and aligners, and will be able to guide you in making the best decision for your individual needs and treatment goals.

Remember, the most important thing is the end result. Whether you choose braces or aligners, the treatment time is relatively short compared to a lifetime.

As time goes by, you will forget the "how", and you will remember the "why" of your treatment, which is to have a great smile for life.

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