You’ve been thinking about fixing your smile, but there’s one thing holding you back: the thought of metal brackets and wires crisscrossing your teeth for the next year or two.

Maybe it’s the food restrictions, the discomfort, or the aesthetic. Maybe it’s the hassle of extra dental visits. Whatever the reason, traditional metal braces feel like a big commitment, and not the fun kind.

If that sounds familiar, you're not overthinking it. You’re just looking for something that fits your lifestyle.

Here are 5 reasons you should choose aligners over braces, and why more and more adults (and teens) are making the switch.

1. They’re (Actually) Comfortable

Let’s start with the obvious: aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, which rely on brackets, wires, and rubber bands, clear aligners sit smoothly over your teeth without poking or digging into your cheeks.

And while every aligner will come with some pressure (because hey, straightening your teeth is work), options like FXClear and AirFlex are designed with a proprietary material that applies gentle, consistent force without the harsh friction.

No wax, no wires, no sudden jabs. Just a gentler path to your new smile.

2. Removable Means More Freedom

Traditional braces are with you 24/7. Aligners? Not so much.

Clear aligners are removable, which means you should take them out while eating, drinking (anything but water), or brushing and flossing. That’s a big win for anyone who loves popcorn, apples, or just the ability to eat without stress.

With OrthoFX’s AirFlex aligners, FDA-cleared for at least 12 hours of continuous daily wear, you don’t have to hit the 22-hour mark required by other aligner systems. You get flexibility, without falling behind on your treatment plan.

3. Easier to Keep Both Your Aligner and Teeth Clean

Oral hygiene is tougher with traditional braces. Brushing and flossing around wires and brackets is tedious and time-consuming.

Aligners, on the other hand, come off easily. You can brush and floss like you always have, which helps maintain healthier gums and prevent plaque build-up.

Plus, aligners themselves are easy to clean. Just a gentle brush with a soft toothbrush or rinse with lukewarm water and you're good to go.

4. Fewer Dental Visits, More Autonomy

Braces typically require frequent in-office adjustments, every 4–6 weeks. That means time off work or school, planning appointments, and lots of waiting rooms.

With aligners, especially those from providers like OrthoFX, your treatment plan is set from the start with the help of advanced imaging technology. You’ll receive a series of aligners that you change at home, on schedule.

And if you need mid-treatment adjustments, OrthoFX FXOnTrack makes it easy to stay on course with remote monitoring, so you don’t have to visit the clinic unless it’s absolutely necessary.

5. Discreet and Practically Invisible

Let’s not pretend it doesn’t matter; how your smile looks during treatment is a big deal.

Aligners are virtually invisible, making them ideal for adults and teens who don’t want their orthodontic treatment to steal the spotlight. There are no metal brackets, no wires, and no food caught mid-meeting.

You’ll go through your day (and your photos) without a flash of silver every time you smile.

Why OrthoFX?

We’re glad you asked.

Not all aligners are created equal. While many offer a basic option, OrthoFX goes further:

• AirFlex: FDA-cleared for at least 12 hours of continuous daily wear
• FXBright: Get straighter and whiter looking teeth while wearing aligners
• FXClear: Comfort-first material
• Smart, flexible payment plans, no hidden fees

Still weighing your options? These are just a few of the reasons why you should consider OrthoFX over traditional braces or other clear aligner brands.

So whether you’re comparing Invisalign clear aligners, metal brackets, or just trying to figure out what fits your life best, OrthoFX gives you more freedom, more comfort, and fewer compromises.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s comfort, convenience, or confidence, aligners offer advantages that braces just can’t match. They fit into your lifestyle, not the other way around.

From removable flexibility to discreet design,** the benefits of choosing clear aligners over braces** stack up quickly. And with OrthoFX aligners, you're not just choosing aligners, you’re choosing a system that works with your life, not against it.

Ready for your smile transformation? It might be time to skip the brackets and wires and start exploring aligners that move at your pace. Take our Smile Quiz and find your fit with OrthoFX.