Clear Braces vs Metal Braces: Which One Should You Pick?
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Want to correct your misaligned teeth and flaunt your best smile? Well, you can check out metal braces and clear braces or aligners, two of the most popular options in the market these days. It’s a tough choice to make between the two as you need to consider various factors such as aligners cost, comfort and convenience, the effectiveness of both, and period of treatment among others.
How do metal braces work?
Traditional braces like metal braces are stainless steel brackets and wires that are attached to your teeth with rubber bands. These brackets are glued to your teeth and help hold the wires in place, while constantly applying pressure on your teeth and jaws. This pressure pushes your teeth into the desired position and over time, the teeth move and get aligned.
What are clear braces?
Invisible aligners or clear braces are transparent trays used to straighten teeth. They use gentle and constant pressure to move the teeth in the required position. They are custom-made for each patient through digital scans. The best part about aligners is that they do not involve the hassle of metal wires and brackets. In most cases, if there’s any reason why people are apprehensive it’s because of the cost of aligners. There’s a general notion that aligners are exorbitantly priced. But with brands like makeO toothsi, you can get affordable smile correction plans and get your smile makeOver easily.
If you’re contemplating between clear braces and metal braces, understanding their advantages and limitations will help you decide which option suits you best.
| Clear braces | Metal braces | |
| 1. Appearance | Owing to their clear bodies, clear braces are barely visible. This means no one needs to know you’re getting dental treatment. | Metal braces are very evident and aren’t aesthetically pleasing. You can notice them even from a distance. It is a primary reason that makes most teens and young adults feel conscious about wearing braces. |
| 2. Oral health and hygiene | With clear braces, you can completely remove the trays when brushing and flossing your teeth. This minimises the chances of cavities and plaque. It is much easier to maintain oral health and hygiene with clear braces than with metal ones. | The risk of plaque formation, and cavities is higher with metal braces because the brackets and wires make it difficult to brush and floss your teeth effectively. Metal braces make it difficult to maintain oral hygiene. |
| 3. Quicker treatment | Depending on the severity of misalignment, the time required for treatment with clear braces is far lesser than traditional one by several months. | On the other hand, traditional braces require more time for treatment. Although, it’s important to note that if your teeth require extensive work, your orthodontist will suggest metal braces over any other option. |
| 4. Cost | Aligners cost is a big factor as it is slightly more expensive than traditional braces. But if you consider the many benefits and advantages it offers compared to metal braces, it’s a winner.
Moreover, with brands such as makeO toothsi offering reasonably-priced clear aligners, you can get the smile makeover of your dreams! |
Traditional metal braces are less expensive than most options in the market. |
| 5. Comfort and convenience | Clear braces are extremely convenient as they can be removed when eating or drinking. The aligner trays are customised hence they offer a comfortable and snug fit. | Metal braces can get quite inconvenient as they are fixed onto your teeth. They can get irksome especially when you eat or have to brush and floss your teeth. |
The Consensus
Your smile is priceless. And if any misalignment is making you conscious of flaunting your smile, then getting it treated is the best way forward. If you can’t decide between metal braces or clear braces, schedule a consultation with a dentist or orthodontist to decide the best option for you.
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