Clear Aligners VS. Traditional Braces: Understanding the Difference
Orthodontics have come a long way since the days of head gear and bracket and wire style treatments with retainers and positioners. In the 1990s, Invisalign paved the way for advancements in orthodontic treatment by introducing clear aligners as an alternative to traditional metal braces. Clear aligners allow patients to experience the same results of straighter teeth using a much more discreet and convenient treatment.
It is important to note that while Invisalign introduced modern orthodontics, other brands of clear aligners have emerged in recent decades as well. So in much the same way that Kleenex is a brand of tissue, Invisalign is simply a brand of clear aligners but certainly not the only option for modern orthodontics.
At WoodSprings Dentistry, we offer modern orthodontics using the SureSmile aligner system. For more information about the clear aligners and orthodontics available to patients in The Woodlands and Spring, read more on our modern orthodontics services page or call our office to book a consultation with Dr. Tejada or Dr. Tejada.
So what is the actual difference between braces and aligners?
The differences between traditional orthodontic treatment with metal braces and modern orthodontics with clear aligners are primarily related to the following categories:
Attachment
Diet or Eating Limitations
Oral Hygiene and Care
Aesthetics
AESTHETICS
Perhaps the most obvious difference between modern “braces” and traditional braces is the appearance or aesthetics. Oftentimes kids enjoy the look of metal braces and changing out the colors of the rubberbands. But adults often prefer more discreet treatment for crooked, twisted, overcrowded teeth or misaligned bites. Clear aligners are custom-made, clear trays specifically designed for your teeth and to be nearly invisible.
ATTACHMENT
How the braces are attached is the most functional difference. Metal braces are glued onto your teeth and cannot be removed during the time of treatment. Clear aligners are trays that are custom-fitted to your teeth and can be removed easily at any time.
ORAL HYGIENE AND CARE
Because clear aligners are removable and metal braces are not, the dental hygiene routines required for each system is affected. Metal braces require extra vigilance in brushing in order to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria from around the braces. Traditional flossing (which should be done twice a day!) is not possible with metal braces and so a water floss system is necessary for thorough daily cleanings. With clear aligners though, your oral and dental hygiene routines are unchanged. You can brush and floss as normally recommended by your dentist.
DIET AND EATING LIMITATIONS
What you can and cannot eat is also affected by the orthodontic system you choose. Traditional metal braces come with some well-known limitations about what you can eat, particularly no sticky or crunchy foods. Because clear aligners are easily removable, you can eat or drink as normal during your modern orthodontic treatment. But you should not attempt to eat or drink with the trays in your mouth. Eating and drinking certain foods with your clear aligners in your mouth could damage or stain the aligners. Also your aligners can trap food particles or acid next to your teeth and increase the process of decay.
Overall there are some fabulous similarities between clear aligners and traditional braces – and that is the ability to produce a straight, beautiful smile!