Aligners or Braces – What are they and which one to choose : A Guide by one of the Best Orthodontist in Vasant Vihar, Delhi

Everyone wants a bright smile, with straight and aligned teeth, whether it is children, or adults. With the growing concern in aesthetics, there is a huge demand to get the ‘teeth fixed’.

Did you know that if you get your teeth fixed, its not just your looks that will improve, but having your teeth aligned properly via Orthodontic treatment will help improve your oral hygiene, prevent tooth decay and can help improve the health of your gums as well.

Now you’ve decided that you want to get your teeth straightened. But then you’re hit with the question,” Should I go in for Aligners, or the Conventional Braces? “

Let’s address this issue-

What are Aligners and Braces ?

Clear aligners: Aligners are customised plastic orthodontic trays made to fit your teeth. It is a series of trays that are given to a patient, and the trays need to be switched after a particular length of time. Each aligner makes little movement possible in your teeth to push it to its final position. Small lumps of composite resins (tooth coloured) are also attached between teeth to help the aligner make a tighter grip around the tooth as well as to improve individualised tooth movement.

There are many aligner systems available, some may be very cheap, but make sure you go in for authentic brands. We at HNM Dental only provide Invisalign Aligners, which are a tried and tested system of Aligners.

Conventional braces: ‘Braces’ is a term everyone is well-versed with. They are referred to as Brackets, which can be either clear (ceramic) braces or metal braces. The treatment involves fixing these brackets onto the teeth, connected through wires and small rubber bands. These wires and brackets keep the teeth under a constant force, yet gentle, to align the teeth.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLEAR ALIGNERS AND METAL BRACES

• Treatment length: This usually varies case by case. Conventional braces may take between 1 to 3 years, while aligners can align the teeth between 6 months to 2 years, depending upon the individual case.

• Removable: We all know that metal or conventional braces are fixed appliances. They stick onto the tooth surface and then are joined with a wire. Meanwhile, it is not the case with aligners. Clear aligners are removable orthodontic appliances and can be worn according to patients’ convenience. However, a minimum amount of 22 hours of wearing is essential to carry out successful tooth movement. Hence, Patient compliance is a MUST if you go in for this alternative.

• Cleaning: Many people are afraid of getting metal braces because they are hard to clean. Metal braces require more attention when compared to aligners in case of cleaning. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits are a must for metal braces. Though in the case of clear aligners maintaining cleanliness is relatively easy.

• Maintenance: Conventional metal braces require regular and thorough cleaning, scheduled orthodontic visits, and abstinence from certain foods. But clear aligners are slightly different. Being removable appliances, they need to be worn 22 hours a day. Regular cleaning and flossing of both the mouth and aligners are a must. Regular polishing of the composite lumps may be necessary if they get stained.

• The ideal treatment for: Metal braces are quite visible in the oral cavity. It is not a fit option for working professionals and image-conscious patients. Metal braces are usually suitable for kids and teenagers.They can also go in for Ceramic braces, if they choose to have a more aesthetic option. For working professionals, and those who are more image- conscious, clear aligners are better alternative, making them a perfect choice for adults. However, there are several considerations if you go in for Aligners.Not all bites or malaligned teeth can be corrected via Aligners. Some adults may necessarily need only braces for tooth alignment in case of severe crowding. Visit a dentist for a check-up and they’ll be able to guide you on what the best treatment choice for you will be.

• Cost: These conventional braces are quite pocket friendly when compared to clear aligners.

Clear aligners may be the incognito way to get your pearly whites straightened. However, this is not a treatment option for everyone. Some people may have to go in for conventional braces, depending on the severity of their maligned teeth. But before drawing any conclusion, a visit to the Dentist / Orthodontist is a must, so that they can recommend the best treatment suitable for you