Teeth Straightening Options — Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Clear aligners and braces are the two most popular teeth-straightening options. Both effectively correct misalignment, but they differ in cost, visibility, comfort, and treatment time.

Here we explore the differences between these two teeth straightening options and which ones will work best for you.

What are the Types of Clear Aligners?

There are two types of clear aligners: in-office and at-home. In-office clear aligners are customized trays that appear virtually invisible. They’re also prepared by and under the supervision of a dentist or orthodontist.

It involves taking a digital or PVS impression of your teeth before they can fabricate aligners made specifically to fit you. Depending on the treatment plan, you will be handed a specific set of aligner trays, and you’ll switch to a new tray every one or two weeks.

On the other hand, at-home or DIY aligners are convenient alternatives to in-office clear aligners. You can buy an at-home aligner kit to get an impression of your teeth and send it to an aligner company.

The impression is reviewed by a dental professional and sent to a laboratory for approval. Once it’s made, the company will deliver it to your doorstep. Some at-home aligner companies connect you with an orthodontist who will monitor your progress remotely through telehealth apps.

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Different Clear Aligner Brands

Here are the most popular brands of aligners and how they differ:

• Invisalign — The most popular in-office option. Suitable for mild to severe teeth alignment issues.
• ClearCorrect — Suitable for mild to moderate teeth alignment issues.
• Byte — A completely remote aligner brand with quick treatment times. Suitable for mild teeth alignment issues.
• Candid — A hybrid option with some of the convenience of at-home teeth straightening. Suitable for mild to moderate teeth alignment issues.
• NewSmile and ALIGNERCO — Two affordable remote aligner brands. Suitable for some mild teeth alignment issues.

Pros and Cons of Clear Aligners

**Pros **	Cons
Virtually invisible	It can be misplaced or lost
Convenient to wear and maintain	Typically more expensive than traditional braces
It can be removed for brushing, eating, and cleaning	Can’t address severe malocclusions
Shorter treatment time	Requires consistency for best results

What are the Different Types of Braces?

There are three main types of braces:

• Traditional braces — These consist of metal brackets and wires that gently apply pressure to the teeth, pulling them to the correct positions.
• Lingual braces — Attaches to the back of teeth, making them more discreet. However, they can cause temporary lisps and speech problems at the beginning of treatment.
• Ceramic braces — Made of plastic tooth-colored brackets that blend well with natural teeth. However, they are more expensive and tend to break more easily.

Pros and Cons of Braces

Pros	Cons
It can be used for various orthodontic issues	Metal braces can have an unappealing appearance
More affordable	You can’t eat certain foods that can get stuck in the braces
You can’t lose or misplace braces	Brushing your teeth properly can be difficult
More effective for straightening children’s teeth	Requires monthly visits for adjustments
Results in better outcomes	Longer treatment time

How Long Do Teeth Straightening Treatments Take?

Traditional braces typically require one to three years, depending on the severity of your condition. On the other hand, clear aligners may take 2 years to complete. However, unlike traditional braces, clear aligners require dedication and consistency.

Costs of Teeth Straightening Options

Several factors can influence the final cost, including the severity of the malocclusion or bite issue, your location, and the dental clinic you visit.

Fortunately, your dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost or all of it, depending on your insurance plan.

Below is a table listing the average cost of different straightening options.

Straightening Option	Cost
Traditional braces	$3,000 - $7,000
Lingual braces	$8,000 - $13,000
Ceramic braces	$3,000 - $65,000
Clear aligners	$3,000 - $9,000

Which Treatment Option is Better For You?

The answer typically depends on your needs. Braces are typically better if you have moderate to severe teeth misalignment, specifically jaw misalignment.

It also depends on your budget as traditional braces can be cheaper than clear aligners. On the other hand, clear aligners may be a better option if you’re looking for a convenient and aesthetically pleasing option.