Clear aligners are currently a popular choice when it comes to teeth straightening, however, there was a time when braces were the only option for orthodontic treatments. There are still many who believe that clear aligners do not give the same results as the good old conventional braces. Contradicting such beliefs, clear aligners have proven time and again that they are as good as braces when it comes to mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Aligners have many advantages over braces, making them a clear pick for professionals, students and celebrities among others. Let’s delve into some of the disadvantages of braces over clear aligners.
Hard to clean
Braces are affixed to the teeth and consist of brackets and wires, hence, teeth that are undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces are difficult to clean. You need special brushes and other cleaning tools to keep the oral hygiene intact while on braces. On the other hand, clear aligners are removable and hence, they allow for easier brushing and flossing. Also, since clear aligners can be removed while having food, the chances of food particles getting stuck in the teeth are very less.
Better appearance
Conventional braces use metal brackets and wires for correcting the teeth which are visible even from a distance for correcting the teeth. So for those seeking a discreet treatment method, braces are never the first choice. Clear aligners are nearly transparent and unless you mention it to your peers, it’s hard to find that you are wearing an aligner.
Frequent visits to the dentist
While you are undergoing orthodontic treatment using braces you need to visit the dentist every 6 weeks for adjustments. But when it comes to clear aligners, the teeth movement is pre-planned and hence, the visits to the dentists for repairs are fewer and much simpler.
Less comfortable
When it comes to comfort aligners supersede braces in every which way. They are removable and provide a chance at better oral hygiene than braces. Not only that, the plastic aligners are smoother than the metal or porcelain braces and do not hurt lips and cheeks like the braces in the initial days.
Both are equally effective
Adults who are looking at correcting mild to moderate orthodontic problems would want to consider a discreet orthodontic treatment that requires minimum maintenance. Made of metal, braces are attached to the teeth with metal wires and rubber bands to provide force to move teeth into the correct position. But in the case of clear aligners, they are near invisible and work similarly. When it comes to mild orthodontic problems, both treatment methods work equally well, however, braces may require more maintenance and care than clear aligners.
