Straightening your teeth is a big decision, and you'll want a treatment that suits your life as well as your smile. Braces and clear aligners can both do the job, but they work in different ways.
How they work
Braces use brackets fixed to your teeth, joined by a wire. Your dentist adjusts them at regular visits to guide your teeth into place.
Clear aligners are a series of removable plastic trays. You wear each set for a period of time, then change to the next one, and your teeth move a little with each change.
How they compare
Appearance: Aligners are hard to notice. Metal braces are more visible, and ceramic braces are a less noticeable option.
Daily routine: Aligners come out for eating and brushing, but they need to be worn for most of the day. Braces stay on, so there's nothing to remember, though cleaning around them takes more care.
Food: With aligners, you can eat what you like once they're out. With braces, it's best to avoid hard and sticky food.
Complex cases: Braces can usually handle a wider range of tooth movements. Aligners suit many mild to moderate cases, but they aren't right for every smile.
Questions to ask yourself
- Will I remember to wear aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day?
- Is it important that my treatment is hard to see?
- Am I comfortable removing and cleaning trays when I'm out?
- Would I prefer not to think about it day to day?
Which is better?
Neither is better for everyone. The right choice depends on how your teeth need to move, as well as your budget and your routine. Your dentist will check your teeth and bite first, as this may rule one option in or out.
Whichever you choose, you'll need to wear a retainer afterwards to stop your teeth from drifting back.
Read about orthodontic treatment and clear aligners, or book a consultation.
This article is general information and isn't medical advice. Please see your dentist about your own teeth.
Back to all articles