Brackets vs. aligners. Which are better for me?
Brackets = fixed metal or sapphire orthodontic devices
Aligners = Invisalign or Spark invisible orthodontic systems
Although most patients choose orthodontic treatment for aesthetic smile corrections, it is important to remember that orthodontics is not just about smile aesthetics. Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that involves more than just straightening teeth. Orthodontics involves the management of many complex biomechanical processes to ultimately achieve the best position of teeth and jaws. Orthodontic treatments aim for a healthy and functional bite, a harmonious facial appearance while preserving the health of the dental ligaments, the dento-alveolar bone and the temporomandibular joint.
As more and more adult patients are seeking orthodontic treatment, we are pleased that in addition to various fixed braces, we can offer effective, aesthetic and comfortable orthodontic treatment with aligners (Invisalign, Spark).
Brackets vs. aligners. Which is better?
My answer is that it depends on each individual case, which is why it is best to consult an orthodontic specialist who is certified in orthodontic treatment with aligners (e.g. Invisalign) and has a ability to use both approaches( fixed braces and aligners) to find the right answer.
I've tried to give you a brief summary of the 2 types of systems (fixed braces vs. aligners), but for more details go to our website, Facebook, Facebook Instagram Instagram.
ALIGNERS
Conventional orthodontic appliances
- Brackets: these are standardised flat metal elements that are bonded to each individual tooth using a special adhesive and which align the teeth.
- Archwire: a thin wire that connects the brackets together and guides the teeth into the correct position.
- Elastic modules: these are small elastic rings that are fixed around the brackets and hold the archwire in place.
- +/- other accessory elements.
Aligners
- customised plastic trays, attachments ( tiny, tooth-coloured buttons or bumps that are bonded to your teeth using dental composites).
- +/- other accessory elements.
AESTHETICS
Conventional orthodontic appliances
- They are visible, not their strong point.
Aligners
- They are almost invisible, discreet.
EFFICIENCY
Conventional orthodontic appliances
- Suitable for any dento-maxillary anomaly.
Aligners
- Suitable for any dento-maxillary anomaly with minor exceptions (exceptions can also be treated with auxilliary elements).
DURATION OF TREATMENT
Conventional orthodontic appliances
- It depends from case to case - on average 12 months-36 months.
Aligners
- It depends from case to case - on average 6 months to 32 months.
- In many cases the treatment is shorter than with a fixed appliance!
CHECKS-UPS/ ACTIVATIONS
Conventional orthodontic appliances
Every 1-2 months.
Aligners
- Every 2-4 months.
TIME SPENT IN THE DENTAL CHAIR
Conventional orthodontic appliances
- 30 min -1 hour / session.
Aligners
- 10-15 minutes / session.
ADVANTAGES
Conventional orthodontic appliances
- Lower cost.
- Unremovable by the patient - advantage only for less cooperative patients.
Aligners
- Precision.
- Customised - increases efficiency.
- Small, precise orthodontic forces (less painful treatment with minimal side effects).
- Comfortable.
- Removable.
- Allows optimal hygiene.
- Superior aesthetics.
- No dietary restrictions.
- They can also be used by professional or amateur contact sports athletes.
- Allows remote treatment.
- Patients can view the final result of orthodontic treatment with special software before starting treatment.
DISADVANTAGES
Conventional orthodontic appliances
- Requires rigorous oral hygiene to remove plaque from the surface of teeth and braces (brushing teeth after each meal with a manual or electric toothbrush, interdental toothbrush, floss).
- Metal brackets, archwires, ligatures can create discomfort on the inside of the cheek.
- Cannot be removed by the patient.
- May cause allergic reactions to metal (very rare).
- You can't eat everything when wearing these appliances.
Aligners
- Higher cost.
- May alter speech in the first few days after application.
There are some issues to consider when weighing orthodontic treatment options. Decide which pros and cons matter most to you to help make your decision easier. Most importantly, ask questions, make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. If you have any questions or want to find out which type of appliance is right for you, don't hesitate to contact us!
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dr. Julia Morar Kis
tel.: 0744956659
e-mail: contact@ortoestetic.to
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