Malocclusion correction is not just a medical issue, but an aesthetic one as well. Today, dentistry offers two main ways to achieve the perfect smile: traditional braces and clear aligners. Both methods are effective but have their own distinct characteristics. This article will detail their differences to help you make the right choice.

What are Braces and Clear Aligners?

Braces

Braces are a fixed appliance consisting of:

• Brackets bonded to the teeth,
• A metal or aesthetic archwire,
• Ligatures or clips to hold the archwire in place.

This appliance is fixed to the teeth and works continuously until the end of treatment.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable, transparent trays made of a hard polymer that must be worn for up to 22 hours a day. They are removed for eating and oral hygiene, making them more convenient for many patients.

Treatment Preparation

Braces

The process of placing braces is relatively quick but requires regular visits to the orthodontist. At each appointment, the orthodontist adjusts the archwire to ensure continued tooth movement.

Clear Aligners

For clear aligners, a detailed 3D treatment plan is created first. This stage includes:

• Scanning the dentofacial system,
• Building a virtual model of the final result,
• Manufacturing a set of aligners, each progressively straightening the teeth.

This approach allows the patient to see the predicted treatment outcome before it even begins. Preparation takes about two weeks.

Oral Hygiene

Braces

Wearing braces requires diligent care:

• Cleaning after every meal is essential,
• Use of additional tools like interdental brushes, water flossers, and single-tufted toothbrushes is recommended,
• Regular professional cleaning at the dentist is necessary.

Neglecting these recommendations can lead to food accumulation and an increased risk of cavities.

Clear Aligners

Removable aligners significantly simplify oral care. Since aligners are removed during meals:

• No special equipment is needed to clean teeth,
• Regular hygiene with a toothbrush and toothpaste is easily maintained,
• The aligners themselves can be washed with plain water and stored in a special case.

Eating Comfort

Braces

There are a number of dietary restrictions with braces:

• Hard and sticky foods like nuts, apples, or caramel are prohibited,
• Food particles can get stuck in the appliance, requiring extra cleaning effort.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removed before eating, allowing you to enjoy any food without restrictions. After eating, the aligners are easily cleaned and can be put back in.

Treatment Complexity

Braces

Braces are suitable for correcting malocclusion of any complexity, including the most severe cases. They are a versatile solution that can be adapted to the individual needs of the patient.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are more suitable for mild to moderate cases. For complex malocclusion, this method may not be sufficiently effective.

Aesthetics

Braces

Modern braces can be aesthetically pleasing:

• Ceramic or sapphire braces are practically invisible on the teeth,
• Metal braces are also becoming less noticeable thanks to improved designs.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them the best choice for those who value aesthetics during treatment.

Treatment Cost

Braces

The price of braces varies depending on their type:

• Metal braces are the most affordable,
• Ceramic, sapphire, and self-ligating systems (e.g., Damon) are more expensive and can be comparable in price to clear aligners.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are typically more expensive than traditional braces, but the cost depends on the complexity of the case and the duration of treatment.

Summary: Which to Choose?

Braces

• Advantages:
  • Suitable for all cases, including complex ones,
  • Reliable and time-tested,
  • Affordable.
• Disadvantages:
  • Require more thorough hygiene,
  • Less comfortable to wear,
  • Dietary restrictions.

Clear Aligners

• Advantages:
  • Aesthetics and comfort,
  • Ease of oral care,
  • Removable design.
• Disadvantages:
  • Not suitable for complex cases,
  • Higher cost.

Both malocclusion correction methods are effective and popular technologies. The choice between braces and clear aligners depends on individual preferences, the complexity of the clinical case, and the patient’s budget.

Braces are a time-tested technique suitable for everyone. Clear aligners are a modern, aesthetic, and comfortable solution for those who value comfort and discretion.

Consult with your orthodontist to choose the optimal treatment method and enjoy your new, flawless smile!

Orthodontic Services Price List:

Service	Price (per 1 jaw, MDL)
Sapphire Braces Placement	18,000
Removable Appliance Fabrication (1 jaw)	2,800
Damon Braces Placement (1 jaw)	15,300
Damon Clear Braces Placement (1 jaw)	18,000
Clear Aligners Basic Package (1 jaw) – scanning, diagnostics, placement + 10 aligners	18,000
Clear Aligner (1 aligner)	1,250