How do clear braces differ from regular ones? A guide

Most people are familiar with the process that surrounds having traditional metal braces fitted. You are referred to an orthodontist who attaches the braces using dental cement and over the coming months, the braces are tightened and adjusted to move your teeth.

But is the same true for invisible braces or aligners? What is the process behind these orthodontic tools, and how do they differ from traditional metal braces?

Our team at Spa Dental Sydney has been working with clear braces Sydney or invisible aligners for nearly 10 years now, and we can attest to how efficient and beneficial these options are to patients. In order to be suitable for these aligners, you do have to have a mild to moderate case of dental misalignment, and you will need to adhere to the guidelines set down by our team in order to benefit from this orthodontic option.

But going back to the initial question, what is the difference between clear braces Sydney and traditional braces? This article aims to provide you with an introductory guide, so read on to learn more.

They aren’t fitted

Despite the name, clear braces Sydney are not fitted; they are removable aligners which you will need to wear for around 22 hours per day in order to get the full benefit of the orthodontic tool. This means that they are easier to wash, and they do not need to be tightened or adjusted by any member of our team. The adjustments required to move your teeth are built into the shape of the aligners, making them easier to use.

They are quicker

In order to be suitable for clear aligners, you need to have a mild to moderate case of dental misalignment. This means that in comparison to traditional metal braces, clear options are a lot faster, with the average treatment time being between 3 to 6 months for most people. This means they are a suitable option for those who are looking to alter their appearance in preparation for a wedding or other social event.

They are more comfortable

Without the adjustments and fittings required in order to move them, many people report that wearing clear aligners is more comfortable than wearing traditional fitted braces. As they are thinner, they do not protrude outwards and cannot cause rubbing against your inner cheeks or your tongue, meaning that overall they are easier to wear in daily life.

They are easier to care for

When someone wears traditional metal braces, they have to purchase interdental brushes and different types of cleaners, and they have to attend check-ups with a hygienist at least twice a year. This means that they can be quite hard to care for, and the incidence of dental decay amongst those who are wearing traditional braces is higher. As aligners are removable, you can wash them under a cold water tap to remove debris, allowing you to clean your teeth as usual. They do need to be removed when you are eating food, and you should also aim to keep them in the carry case provided to prevent them from warping. Apart from that, they are very easy to use.

They are discreet

Metal braces are far from visually discreet, and a core advantage that invisible options have is that they are harder to spot. As they are made from clear plastic and are customised to your teeth, you may have to point them out to somebody to prove that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment!

DISCLAIMER

All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.