How Clear
Aligners Are
Different Than Braces

The orthodontist takes all the records and plans out the movement and final position of each tooth with the help of a computer system. Once the movement and sequence are finalized, models of each stage are printed by a laboratory. The trays are then fabricated from the staged models and bagged and labeled.

When the orthodontic office receives the models, we invite the patient in for an appointment to try and deliver the trays. The basic process of wearing aligners includes:

1. Wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours per day
2. Changing trays on a weekly or biweekly basis
3. Taking the trays out for eating, drinking, and cleaning
4. Checkups to ensure treatment is on track

How Braces Work

When comparing braces vs. aligners, orthodontic treatment for braces is much different. After a diagnosis and treatment planning, the orthodontist and his team place the braces on each tooth by hand. After the braces are placed, wires are engaged into the designated slot in each bracket. Initial wires are very small and flexible, but we increase wire sizes and adjust their positioning to accomplish smaller tooth movement at subsequent visits.

Differences Between Braces & Aligners

Clear aligner treatment, earlier known as “tooth positioners,” dates back to the 1940s. These appliances were made of rubber to make final corrections after treatment with braces. Clear aligners, as an alternative to braces, began in the mid-1990s. Since then, 3D technology has improved, and we’ve made great strides to treat some truly amazing cases. Spark, in particular, is a type of aligner system that includes the latest and greatest in aesthetics, comfort, and tooth movement.

Today, clear aligners are still removable trays that can shift teeth to better positions in the mouth. Because they’re easier to clean, manage, and incorporate into daily life, they have many advantages over braces.

Braces vs. Aligners | Which Are Better?

Most patients that are interested in transforming their smile approach an orthodontic specialist with specific questions. In a smile-transformation consultation, a common question that I get is, “which is better, braces vs. aligners?” My response is that it depends on the case. There are several clear advantages to straightening teeth without braces, using clear aligners. Ultimately, patients should seek out an orthodontist to determine what type of treatment is best for their case.

If you’re considering the benefits of each treatment type, explore this quick breakdown of the differences between braces and aligners.

1. Aesthetics
   
   The first clear advantage of aligner treatment vs. braces is aesthetics. Many patients are apprehensive about transforming their teeth because they don’t want metal pieces or wires ruining their smile. They want something effective at straightening teeth without marring their mouth. It is our task as orthodontists to provide an attractive option that will also provide them with a fantastic result.
   
   It has been my experience that Spark is the most subtle visual option that provides the most effective and efficient result. Using clear trays that you change every week provides patients with an option of nearly invisible treatment and reduces the barrier of metal brackets and wires to achieve the smile of their dreams without the braces look.

2. Comfort
   
   The next advantage to using aligners vs. braces is that they can be much more comfortable. Rather than having the potential of wires poking and brackets rubbing on cheeks and gums, the clear trays provide a treatment option that is much more comfortable for the patient. Eating and chewing can be troublesome with brackets and wires, and the ability to remove your aligners for meals is a huge advantage. It’s one of the biggest differences between braces and aligners!

3. Flexibility Through Technology
    
   
   
   Another difference between braces and clear aligners is the ability to plan a case digitally using the most innovative technologies. This advance in tech allows doctors to plan treatments more efficiently and easily. Using Spark software, we can plan each tooth movement using science and mathematics that we show and share with the patient before they even start treatment. When considering aligners vs. braces, more transparency gives patients the confidence they need to move forward.

4. Efficient Movement Means Faster Results
    

   Another advantage of using clear aligners vs. braces is the efficiency of movement. One of the principles of orthodontic tooth movement is light and continuous forces. Because clear aligners are more comfortable than braces, people don’t mind wearing them for long periods of time to ensure continuous pressure on their teeth. Furthermore, in most cases, patients know their exact finish date — who doesn’t love that?

5. Fewer Visits to the Office
   
   In my practice, treatment utilizing aligners vs. braces also allows patients decreased visits to the orthodontic office. Patients don’t have to find time in their schedule to make an appointment for adjustments! They just pop in a new tray as their treatment plan dictates. With busy lifestyles and demanding careers, many patients truly appreciate that they don’t need to visit the office every month.

6. Affordable Treatment Options
   
   The cost of treatment is a huge factor in choosing braces vs. aligners. Thankfully, using clear trays, specifically the Spark system, there are different levels of treatment based on a patient’s financial needs and desires. Patients get a flexible payment system and affordability for all.

7. Cleanliness & Maintenance
   
   As an orthodontist, I am concerned with my patient’s ability to maintain optimal hygiene during treatment. Having metal braces, elastic chains, wires, and more can trap bacteria and food, making hygiene more difficult. Undergoing treatment with aligners vs. braces allows patients to remove the trays to eat, drink, floss, brush, and continue great hygiene practices much more easily.

You Have Options

Before undergoing any type of orthodontic treatment, you should consider seeking a qualified orthodontist. Patients should also understand that they have options when it comes to their treatment. If your provider recommends clear aligners, you should understand that you always have a choice in the brand of the aligner. Each brand has some small differences that can have a significant impact on your case result.

Ultimately, having options is important to all orthodontists and patients. Clear aligners vs. braces provide patients with an alternative to brackets and wires that might better suit their needs and desires. In addition, Spark Clear Aligners offer an alternative to getting straight teeth and a beautiful smile without braces or Invisalign™.

Finding a Qualified Provider

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, I encourage you to see your local orthodontist and inquire about Spark Aligners. They can answer additional questions and provide a comprehensive comparison covering the differences between braces and aligners for your specific case.

I often recommend the Spark Aligner System for my patients because it offers the best in comfort, reliability, efficiency, and results. In our practice, patients have been overwhelmingly happy with the Spark Aligners system. I encourage you to ask your provider about Spark Aligners and how they can help you!