Should I Choose Metal Braces or Clear Aligners?

Thinking back, there really weren’t a lot of options for people who had misaligned teeth. The only one that comes to most people’s minds who had braces when they were kids is the traditional metal braces that were adhered to your teeth and had colourful, changeable, elastic bands. Nowadays, while those kind still exist, clear aligners have come into the picture, changing the game of orthodontics and giving people more choice and options. Is one better than the other, though? Let’s go through the pros and cons of each.

Starting with the traditional metal braces, there’s a reason why they have been around for so long. Because they work. There have even been advancements so that the brackets are not as large and noticeable, and a heat activated wire called an “archwire” can be used to help speed up the long process.

Pros of metal braces include:

• Suitable for all ages
• No risk of loss and charge of replacement
• Faster treatment
• Inexpensive
• Able to correct moderate and severe tooth alignment cases

Cons of metal braces include:

• Noticeable
• Hard to clean around
• Can cut and irritate your lips and cheeks
• Unable to eat foods that are sticky or hard such as popcorn and gum

For those who can’t live without these foods, or for those who want something removeable, the newest option on the market are clear aligners and they’re becoming increasingly popular due to the fact that they’re unnoticeable to anyone who glances your way, and can be removed at any time for easy eating and cleaning. However, like with anything, there are cons to these aligners, but let’s start with the pros.

Pros of clear aligners include:

• Invisible
• Affordable
• Removable during meal time and when brushing teeth
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons of clear aligners:

• Discomfort after getting a new set
• Have to visit the dentist more frequently
• Risk of losing them when removed
• Not suitable for busy individuals who might forget to put them in/back in
• Unable to correct severe cases

The only way to know for sure what kind would suit you or your child the best is to book a consultation with your dentist. Call us today, or make an appointment through our website to discuss your options.