Metal Braces vs Clear Aligners: Which is Better?

When you hear the word braces, you’ll likely imagine the metal ‘train track’ braces that were the default style for so many years. However, as dentistry has evolved, newer and more discreet options have emerged, such as clear aligners. 

If you’re on the quest for perfectly straight teeth, you may be faced with a choice between metal braces or clear aligners at some point, but which is better? The team at La Belle Dental Clinic is here to talk you through your options to help you make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways:

• Metal braces are fixed to the teeth and are more effective for severe cases, but less aesthetic and harder to clean.
• Clear aligners are removable, discreet and more comfortable, but usually more expensive.
• Aligners can be taken out for eating and brushing, whereas metal braces may cause initial discomfort.
• Make sure you choose your dental treatment based on budget, appearance preference, and comfort needs. At La Belle Dental Clinic, we offer financing plans to help you achieve the smile of your dreams in an affordable way.

What are metal braces?

Traditional metal braces are permanently fixed to your teeth for the duration of your treatment using metal brackets and wires. This applies a consistent yet gentle pressure that aligns your teeth over time. Depending on the severity of your case, you’ll likely need your braces fitted for anywhere between one to three years.

What are clear aligners?

Clear aligners are a series of removable, discrete trays made from thermoplastic materials. These aligners are custom-made to ensure a perfect fit and must be worn for around 22 hours a day. Treatment lengths can vary between six to eighteen months depending on the complexity of your case.

Convenience

Traditional metal braces will be permanently attached to your teeth for the entirety of your treatment plan, meaning they can’t be removed at mealtimes or to brush your teeth. Not only does this complicate oral hygiene, but there is unfortunately a long list of foods that you can’t enjoy because they get stuck in the brackets.

Clear aligners have no such restrictions as they can be easily removed during mealtimes and to brush your teeth, making them a much more convenient option. 

Price

There is no set price when it comes to braces as the cost of your treatment depends entirely on the severity of the issue; for example, if you’re just trying to fix some minor misalignment, this is considerably cheaper than sorting a major overcrowding issue. Typically, metal braces are a more affordable option than clear aligners as the materials cost less and they usually require less frequent monitoring and checkups. However, clear aligners can be a cost-effective solution for very minor corrective work.

Regardless of what kind of braces you choose, it’s important to use a trusted dental practice that you know will give you a fair price, like La Belle Dental Clinic.

Appearance

Perhaps the biggest benefit of clear aligners is their discreetness; in fact, to the untrained eye, they are virtually undetectable. This is a particularly important factor for many adult patients, who will likely want to go about their day without drawing attention to their teeth. For children and teenagers who are less self-conscious about their smile, metal braces are an effective solution and even allow for personalisation, with different coloured bands and brackets available.

Comfort

Wearing metal braces is a big adjustment and there can be some discomfort in the first few weeks. As you get used to them, you also might experience some cuts and tenderness to your tongue and the inside of your cheeks. Although this will fade over time, metal braces can be more uncomfortable initially than clear aligners. 

By contrast, clear aligners are custom-fit to your teeth and made from smooth plastic, reducing potential irritation to your mouth and gums. Clear aligners can also be removed during mealtimes to make eating and drinking a much more comfortable experience.

Whatever braces you choose, it’s important to ensure they are fitted by a trusted dental practice like La Belle Dental Clinic to reduce any discomfort.

So, which is better?

Ultimately, both metal braces and clear aligners will provide you with perfectly straight teeth at the end of your treatment plan; the question of which is better all comes down to your personal preference. If you’re searching for a more affordable option and you’re not too worried about aesthetics, traditional metal braces are the way to go. However, if you’d prefer something more discreet and comfortable, clear aligners will get the job done while being virtually undetectable.

Contact Us Today!

If you’d like to take the first step towards a more confident smile, contact the team at La Belle Dental Clinic today. We offer both traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners to patients across Edinburgh and the surrounding areas, with our experts always on hand to advise you on the best options for your needs.

Get in touch with our friendly team to find out more or to book your appointment.