What's the difference between clear braces and clear aligners?

Aesthetically pleasing orthodontic treatments are here to stay because more people are choosing to correct cosmetic and oral problems without detracting from their appearance. With clear aligners and clear braces, you can improve your smile while keeping your treatment invisible. You may even be able to combine the two treatments if needed.

Although your top priority is fixing your teeth and having the healthiest mouth possible, straightening your smile discreetly is probably a close second. Here’s how two popular invisible orthodontic treatments compare so that you can discuss them with your dentist.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are similar to metal braces and include non-removable brackets, wires, and sometimes rubber bands.

• Work well for any age group
• Can fix more severe oral issues and jaw misalignment
• Treatment time varies from one to three years
• Must take special care to remove food particles from brackets and avoid hard or sticky foods
• Brackets are plastic or ceramic

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable trays that you wear for a certain number of hours per day and require discipline to wear them consistently.

• Best for older teens or adults
• Can fix mild orthodontic issues
• Treatment time averages one year
• You remove the trays to eat and can eat whatever you want
• Made of plastic