Metal Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which One’s Right For You?

Making the decision to straighten your teeth is one of the best things you can do for your smile and your oral health. No matter how old you are or how long you have waited, this will be a life and smile-changing decision. Once you have made it, you will have to decide which straightening system will work best for you: metal braces or clear aligners. Let’s take a look at both.

Metal Braces

We’ve all seen them, and we likely know someone who has had them, but what do we really know about them?

What are they made of? Different types of metals and alloys are used to make traditional metal braces. The most common are titanium alloys with nickel or chromium, stainless steel,  and chromium-nickel-cobalt alloys. Braces are made of two main components: brackets, archwires, and ligatures.

How do they work? Braces are comprised of brackets that are bonded to your teeth and an archwire that is attached to the brackets by the ligatures. The archwire places pressure on the teeth to move them into the desired position. Over time, as the teeth adjust, the pressure slowly decreases. Repeat visits to the dentist are required to tighten the braces to maintain the pressure and ensure the desired results. Metal braces remain on your teeth until the end of the treatment period.

Are they painful? The first few days after getting braces or after getting them tightened, you may feel some discomfort, but that goes away. Speak to our doctors if you have any concerns.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a great alternative to traditional braces. If you are looking for a more discreet solution, then they might be right for you.

What are they made of? Most clear aligners are made of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a transparent, durable, strong plastic. In some cases, aligners are made of polyethersulfone (PES). The latest generation of aligners are made of trimethyl orthosilicate. 

How do they work? Clear aligners are clear plastic trays custom made to fit your mouth. The dentist will make an impression of your teeth, and that impression will be used to make your aligners. You will wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks and then move on to the next set in the series. Clear aligners can be removed to brush and floss your teeth and any time you want to eat.

Are they painful? You may feel some mild discomfort each time you start a new set of aligner trays, but this is temporary.

How To Choose

Making the right decision is easy with the help of our doctors. Our team is here to make sure you get a bright, beautiful smile. Make an appointment at our dental office located in Meeker, CO, and we’ll make sure you get the smile you deserve.