How Clear Aligners Compare to Traditional Braces

Wear a new set of aligners about every two weeks and let clear aligners take care of the rest! With clear aligners, you can improve your mouth’s appearance, function, and bite.

There are many differences between clear aligners and traditional metal braces. That’s why we encourage you to explore your options for orthodontic treatment. You may also ask our clear aligners dentists about starting orthodontic treatment during your next appointment.

In the meantime, here’s how clear aligners compares to traditional metal braces.

Unrestricted Diet

Clear aligners are removable. This means that you’ll be able to continue eating your favorite foods. With metal braces, you’d have to avoid hard and/or sticky foods that could damage the wires and brackets. But you won’t have these same limitations during clear aligners treatment.

The only caveat is that you’ll need to brush your teeth after every meal to avoid staining your aligners. Otherwise, your aligners will yellow over time. You may also trap food against your teeth for hours at a time, which can increase your risk of cavities.

We recommend carrying a travel size toothbrush and toothpaste with you. That way, you’re free to eat and brush your teeth while you’re on the go.

Always remove your aligners before you eat or drink anything other than water.

Related: Clear Aligner Care Tips During the Holidays →

Designed for Comfort

Traditional metal braces may irritate your cheeks and gums. But clear aligners are made out of a smooth plastic. Each aligner is custom fitted to your smile, so they have a snug and comfortable fit.

During your first appointment with us, we’ll use the iTero Element® scanner. This takes a precise 3D image of your teeth that clear aligners uses to make your custom aligners.

Clear aligners are designed to apply gentle, constant pressure to move your teeth in a controlled manner. Clear aligners also designed with comfort in mind.

That being said, it’s normal to feel a bit of pressure on your teeth during the first day or so of wearing a new set of aligners. This is a sign that your aligners are working to move your teeth into their final positions. While the discomfort is temporary, please feel free to check out our blog post on how to make clear aligners more comfortable.

Clear and Discreet

Does the thought of wearing metal braces make you feel self-conscious? If so, clear aligners may be a good alternative.

As the name suggests, clear aligners are nearly invisible. Most people won’t even realize you’re wearing your clear aligners unless they’re standing close. For this reason, clear aligners are popular with teens and adults.

Easier to Brush and Floss

It’s not uncommon for patients with metal braces to neglect their oral hygiene. That’s because it’s hard to brush and floss around metal braces. But since clear aligners are removable, you’re able to brush and floss normally. This makes it much easier to maintain a healthy smile during orthodontic treatment.