Aligners vs. Braces
Frisco, TX
You can receive benefits from either aligners or braces. However, sometimes, you are better off with a more traditional orthodontic approach, especially if you have a severe bite problem or your teeth protrude. If you have crowding or a mild malocclusion, you might like a more aesthetic solution, such as aligners. At Rendon Orthodontics, we support both treatments for straightening and aligning the jaws and teeth. Therefore, the more you know about each treatment, the easier it will be to find a solution designed for you.
What Are the Main Differences Between Braces and Aligners?
Braces are designed for any age group including adults. However, we usually treat children who are between eight and 12 years old with braces. Often, teens and adults choose aligners, as they are made of clear plastic and therefore are more aesthetically pleasing. You can also choose braces that are not as noticeable as traditional wire braces. Braces today are made with brackets and wires made of tooth-colored ceramic and may be fitted on the back of the teeth as lingual braces as well.
While aligners can be removed for eating and brushing and flossing, braces are fixed, and therefore stay on the teeth until the end of treatment. Aligners are switched out about every two weeks until the teeth are straightened. They are used for people with slightly crooked teeth, spacing problems, and mild bite issues. Braces are designed for a wider array of straightening or alignment issues and may be combined with orthodontic surgery to achieve the desired results.
 Do Aligners or Braces Cost More?
Typically, aligners cost more than braces, as they provide a more aesthetic solution to straightening the teeth. Expect to pay around $5,000 for the aligners or trays, and from $1,800 to $5,000 for braces. The cost for braces covers about two to three years of treatment versus 12 to 18 months for using aligners for straightening the teeth.
Do I Have More Restrictions Placed on Me With Braces?
You do have less flexibility when wearing braces when it comes to eating foods, as sticky or hard foods can break your brackets and wires. You can remove your aligners when you eat, which reduces the risk of damage to the appliance. You also can remove your aligners when brushing and flossing. This makes it easier to care for your teeth and prevent cavities.
To ensure you don’t get food trapped in your braces, it helps to use a hydro flosser, such as a Water Pik, to remove any residue or food debris. When wearing the aligners, rinse them each time you remove them from your mouth. Although wearing braces is a full-time commitment, you still have to wear the aligners for 22 hours each day to get the best results.
We believe there are really no downsides to wearing aligners or braces, as they both will improve your smile and the functionality of your gums and teeth. If you would like to review your orthodontic options with us, just contact us for an appointment. Give Rendon Orthodontics a call at (972) 377-8844 to schedule an orthodontic consultation and find out how you, too, can beautify your smile. Today’s orthodontic options make it easy to possess a winning smile, regardless of your age or budget, or current lifestyle. |
