Braces vs Clear Aligners

Our teeth play a significant role and have a major impact on our overall health and aesthetics. Most of the time, we notice moderate to severe tooth misalignment and want to rectify it, but we don\’t know what treatments and procedures are accessible. As dentistry advances, so do orthodontic techniques; we now have a variety of alternatives for treating a variety of orthodontic problems. Malalignment manifests itself in crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and biting issues. 

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of misplaced teeth. If you have an issue with your teeth\’ alignment, you should be seeing a qualified orthodontic practitioner. 

Following are some of the reasons for getting an orthodontic treatment 

• Teeth realignment to correct an overbite 
• To minimize dental overlap or close a gap between teeth (diastema).
• To treat jaw problems such as TMJ (tempero mandibular joint).

To help you make the best decision, we\’ve broken down the most important information and comparisons between braces and clear aligners.

Fixed Braces

Fixed braces are classified into two categories based on the material they are made of: metallic and ceramic. Metallic or ceramic brackets are fastened to the front of the teeth or the inside of the teeth and are connected by an archwire. The wire allows clinicians to vary tightness as required. With this arrangement, the teeth are gently and slowly forced into their proper position. This technique applies extremely light but persistent pressure to the teeth to shift them into their optimal position. The wire will need to be replaced numerous times with a thicker wire to keep adjusting the teeth until they are straight. Regular follow-up appointments (once every six to eight weeks on average) are essential to allow the orthodontist to assess and evaluate the therapy.

Clear Aligners

For mild to moderate orthodontic difficulties, clear aligners, often known as Invisalign, are a sophisticated, unnoticeable orthodontic treatment option. They straighten teeth in the same way that traditional braces do, but with the added benefit of a clear, removable aligner. According to the dentist\’s recommendations, clear aligners should be changed every two weeks. Each aligner applies the right amount of pressure to the teeth to help them straighten out according to the dentist\’s instructions. With clear aligner therapy, a virtual model of the teeth is created using computer software to show all of the processes involved, from the teeth\’ initial state to the final intended result.

Difference between fixed braces and clear aligners

• Clear aligners are easily detachable and can be taken out while eating or cleaning. Fixed braces are permanent and cannot be removed for eating, drinking, or cleaning. Instead, only the orthodontist will remove them once the teeth have been straightened.
• It can be difficult to chew certain foods (such as apples, nuts, or sticky foods), and cleaning and flossing your teeth can be challenging while wearing fixed braces. Clear aligners, on the other hand, allow you to consume everything you want and like. Furthermore, clear aligners are simple to clean.
• The treatment period for clear aligners is significantly shorter; however, it varies from case to case.

Maintenance

In both circumstances, home management is essential in addition to professional treatment to achieve satisfactory results. Oral bacteria have a significant aid in the development of diseases of the surrounding tissue. When a dental appliance is used, bacteria and plaque tend to hide behind or within the crevices of the appliance, causing damage to the tooth surface and gums.

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