Dental Aligners vs. Braces: What’s the Difference?

Braces are most likely what immediately comes to mind when you think of fixing your teeth. They are metal brackets that are affixed to your teeth, connected by various wires that may be tightened, depending on your progress. Because they cannot be removed by the patient, they often tend to yield better results. They’re also generally built to handle tougher cases, because they are more heavy-duty.

“Braces are particularly effective for younger patients or those with complex dental needs,” Dr. Joyce Kahng, a cosmetic and restorative dentist who owns Orange + Magnolia Dental Studio tells Woman’s World. “While aligners allow for easier oral hygiene maintenance (you can brush and floss normally), braces require additional tools like water flossers to ensure proper cleaning due to the wires and brackets.”

Features and benefits of metal braces

• They are metal and semi-permanent
• More visible to other people
• Effective, especially for younger patients
• May require water flossers for proper cleaning

Aligners, which you may recognize from popular brands such as Invisalign and ClearCorrect, are clear plastic “trays” that are molded to your teeth. They can be removed at any time by the patient for eating, cleaning, and sleeping. And because they are clear plastic, they are far more discreet than braces. 

“[Aligners] are often preferred by adults or individuals who want a less noticeable way to correct mild to moderate dental issues,” Dr. Kahng says. “Aligners can also accommodate more complex cases but offer the added convenience of being removable, which can suit certain lifestyles. However, this removability can reduce compliance, especially for younger patients who may forget to wear them consistently.”

Are aligners the same as clear braces?

Yes, aligners are also known as clear braces. They are the same thing.

Features and benefits of dental aligners

• Made from clear plastic
• Easily removable for eating/cleaning teeth
• More discreet than metal braces
• Removability can reduce compliance, and therefore, they can reduce results

Pros of metal braces

• They work quickly
• Permanence means more compliance, and therefore better results
• Heavy duty materials also yield better results
• Treatment plan is made in an office with orthodontist’s oversight

Cons

• Not everyone likes how they look
• Cleaning is more intensive
• They are often somewhat painful
• Can be pricey

Aligners also come with pros and cons, too

Pros

• The process is often done online via remote telehealth
• Cleaning is relatively easy
• Often more affordable than metal braces
• Discreet aesthetic

Cons

• They don’t necessarily work as well
• Removability means reduced compliance
• They often take longer to work
• Adjustments can’t be made at home
• Can cause speech issues (lisp)

There are many tradeoffs when choosing between braces and aligners. However, Dr. Irina Kessler of New York Family Dental Arts says a huge part to think about is the oversight of your treatment plan. This refers to the fact that the orthodontics office’s process is far more regulated than something you can get online: “There is something to be said that the doctor needs to oversee orthodontic treatment. [Clear braces] companies are trying to find loopholes, and it doesn’t work,” she tells Woman’s World. “When I am overseeing a case, and something isn’t going the way it should, we can change the treatment plan. Online and at home, you are on your own.”

When I am overseeing a case, and something isn’t going the way it should, we can change the treatment plan. Online and at home, you are on your own.

Which company or orthodontist is right for me?

When deciding on a company or orthodontist, you should absolutely do all of the research you can. Look into the cost and benefits, as well as local professionals in your area that may prescribe both. That way, says Dr. Kessler, you will make the most informed decision possible for the sake of your teeth.

“People should have a proper consultation with their dentist,” she explains. “Ask questions so you make the right decision for yourself.”

And even though price is important, you may want to splurge for the sake of your teeth

Dr. Perry also reminds prospective patients that price should not be a priority. Even though metal braces are more expensive, they might be better for your dental situation. Additionally, some clear aligners are more affordable than others. So, if you genuinely care about your teeth, you should splurge on the safest and most effective treatment.

“Do your research — do not choose an orthodontist based on price,” she adds. “Many aligner companies that have been sued and/or shut down provided inadequate care, and poor quality control. A lot of patients did not see the results they were promised.”

Invisible braces cost examples

Even though aligners may be less noticeable, braces generally work more quickly — and they are more effective, particularly for more serious cases. That said, if you aren’t in a rush to get optimal results, and would prefer something more discreet, aligners may be better for you. There are pros and cons to both types of orthodontics, so make sure to do your research before investing in either.