Clear Aligners: An Alternative to Metal Braces

Are clear aligners better than braces?

Everyone’s teeth are different. So are the solutions for teeth straightening. 

However, there is an easy rule of thumb for teeth straightening: For severely crooked teeth, metal braces are usually best for repairing difficult alignments and straightening. 

For everybody else, there are clear aligners. Here at Dr. Frahm’s office, we are partial to Invisalign® clear aligners. Invisalign does an incredible job of straightening your teeth, closing gaps, aligning your bite, all while enhancing the function and health of your mouth.

For people who require minor teeth straightening, clear aligners are usually the best option. 

Clear aligners are good for your mouth

Clear aligners are more comfortable than braces. That’s because clear aligners don’t have brackets and wires that can irritate your gums and mouth tissue like braces do. 

Clear aligners are aesthetically pleasing

Clear aligners like Invisalign are nearly invisible (hence the name). They are made of a clear plastic and molded to fit your teeth. They may be mostly inconspicuous, but they are still effective. 

Clear aligners can straighten teeth as well as braces

Clear aligners are highly effective at straightening mildly crooked teeth. Aligners work by repositioning your teeth into place by applying gentle pressure. And clear aligners provide long-lasting results.

Clear aligners make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene

Although good oral hygiene is a must for all patients, it’s easy to keep teeth clean if you wear clear aligners. Clear aligners can simply be removed before brushing and flossing. Braces, on the other hand, can trap food and plaque and flossing between the metal wires takes special care.

Clear aligners work quickly

Invisalign treatment works to straighten mildly crooked teeth more quickly than braces. This is due to the all-around force of the aligners across the whole tooth. However, it’s important to wear your aligners for a minimum of 22 hours per day for the quickest results. And, depending upon the amount of correction you need, you can expect your treatment to last anywhere from three to 24 months. 

Want to learn more? Find out How Invisalign Works.

Consult with Dr. Frahm to find out if Invisalign clear aligners are right for you. Contact us today  via our webform or give us a call at 831-372-8011. And for more information about clear aligners and braces, visit the American Association of Orthodontists.