Both braces and clear aligners can be used to correct a variety of orthodontic issues. Braces are the most traditional and affordable orthodontic treatment available. Although braces have been used to straighten teeth for many decades, today’s braces offer more comfort than ever before. Unlike the clunky “metal-mouth” braces of the past, today’s braces are smaller, and more discreet. Small, low-profile metal brackets are mounted to each tooth and connected through archwire and elastic bands. Through adjustments to the tension of the archwire, teeth gradually move into the desired position. Braces can be made from either traditional metal, or a clear ceramic material. While braces are durable, the brackets can still come loose or be damaged by improper use. That’s why we discourage brace-wearers from eating very hard or super sticky foods during treatment. On average, braces take around 24 months to complete treatment. 

In contrast to braces, clear aligners like Invisalign are a fairly recent orthodontic technology. Instead of brackets and archwire, teeth are straightened through sets of customized, clear aligners that move teeth into place. One of the greatest advantages of clear aligners is that they are almost completely invisible. This makes clear aligners the most discreet of all orthodontic treatment options. Clear aligners are worn for 22 hours per day and are only removed to eat, drink, brush and floss. Because they are removable for eating, there are no additional diet restrictions with Invisalign treatment. However, with great flexibility comes great responsibility. If you or your teen doesn’t wear their clear aligners for the prescribed amount of time, it will take longer to complete treatment.