Orthodontic Treatment Options: Braces and Clear Aligners

A lot of people with crooked or crowded teeth undergo orthodontic treatment to realign their bite. While it's usually thought of as a childhood need, orthodontic care is also essential for many adults. Do you want to straighten your teeth but unsure between conventional braces and clear aligners? Read on to learn more about each of these orthodontic treatments and see which option may be more suitable for your needs.

Conventional Braces

Braces work by slowly pushing your teeth into better alignment. Here are some reasons why it may or may not be suitable for you:

 

• Pros. Braces have been the traditional orthodontic treatment for decades. They're known for their durability as they don't easily crack, chip, or break. Braces work for every type of malocclusion, ranging from minor to the most severe. They're the most effective treatment for incredibly aggressive tooth movements and can correct even the most complex issues. Braces are also highly functional. Once attached to your teeth, the device is permanently fixed. So, they work 24/7 for the duration of your treatment. Braces are also more affordable compared to some other straightening treatments. 

• Cons. It generally takes a while for patients to get used to the device. They can be uncomfortable when the wires are tightened. The metal components may also cut or irritate the soft tissues inside your mouth, like the cheeks, lips, and tongue. Additionally, wearing braces make it harder to clean your mouth correctly as the brackets, wires, and ligatures get in the way. Food debris can get stuck underneath these parts. Braces also limit what you can eat. A lot of people also don't like that braces are very noticeable. 

Clear Aligners: Advantages and Disadvantages

Clear aligners are essentially plastic replicas of your teeth that you need to wear at least 22 hours a day. Wearing this device puts gentle pressure on your teeth to reposition them. Clear aligners are an excellent treatment for less complicated orthodontic issues. The aligners are made of smooth, clear, computer-generated plastic trays, making them virtually invisible. They're often the answer for those who seek a more discreet orthodontic solution. Clear aligners are also removable, which means you can still eat your favorite foods. This also makes brushing and flossing a breeze as there are no brackets and wires to worry about. They are comfortable to wear and won't affect your speech. 

While clear aligners offer a host of benefits, they also have some disadvantages. They're not recommended for severe orthodontic cases. If your crowded teeth are due to your jaw being too small, this device won't fix the problem. The same goes for when your bite issues are due to a misaligned jaw. There are times when buttons have to be placed on your back teeth to keep the aligners in place. These buttons can cause discomfort when you have to remove the aligners to eat, drink, or in instances where you wouldn't want to wear your aligners. Your dental care routine will be the same as you'd still be cleaning your mouth as usual. But you'd have to brush your teeth every after a meal before putting your aligners back on.

Both braces and clear aligners fulfill the same function. But if you're not sure which treatment option is best for you, it's best to consult an expert. At Above & Beyond Dental, we can help you make an informed decision. Call our office today in Bedford, Texas, at 817-571-1667 to schedule your appointment.