Both traditional braces and clear aligners can achieve excellent results, but they suit different needs, budgets, and lifestyles. Here's how to think about the decision.
Traditional braces
Metal or ceramic brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by a wire that's adjusted periodically. They're fixed in place, meaning there's no risk of forgetting to wear them, and they can handle more complex bite corrections.
- Best for complex or severe misalignment
- Cannot be removed, so no compliance required
- More visible, though ceramic options are less noticeable
- Some dietary restrictions (sticky and hard foods)
Clear aligners
A series of custom, removable clear trays that gradually shift teeth into place. Each set is worn for one to two weeks before moving to the next in the series.
- Best for mild to moderate misalignment
- Nearly invisible, popular with adults in professional settings
- Removable for eating and cleaning, no food restrictions
- Requires discipline, they only work if worn 20+ hours a day
Cost and timeline
Timelines are often similar for comparable cases, though this varies significantly based on how much correction is needed. Cost depends on complexity rather than which option you choose in general.
Our recommendation
The right choice comes down to your bite complexity, lifestyle, and how consistently you can commit to wearing removable trays. A short consultation and a set of scans will tell us which option gives you the best result for your specific case.
Curious which path fits you? Book a consultation and we'll map it out together.
