Conventional braces or modern-day aligners? Choosing the right one is not that difficult.

Most people consider teeth straightening treatment at one or the other point in their lives. Many benefits come along. While traditional braces are considered the most effective way of your smile makeover, aligners are becoming the new trend. Let us compare the pros and cons of conventional braces and modern-day aligners.

Dental braces are devices used in orthodontics that align and straighten teeth and help position them for a person’s bite, while also aiming to improve dental health. Traditional braces involve brackets and wires and are usually made out of metals. Braces aid to correct irregular teeth positioning, jaw correction, improvement in chewing and smile aesthetics.

Pros:

1. Braces help you achieve straighter teeth which boosts your confidence and self-esteem. Once braces are removed you no longer feel the need to cover your mouth or duck away from the camera again.
2. Improved Oral hygiene: Straighter and properly aligned teeth are easier to maintain and clean. The chances of accumulation of plaque are significantly improved.

Cons:

1. Braces can be very noticeable: Especially if you’re an adult or older teenager, being in braces can be difficult in a social sense. Though there is an unnecessary and undeserved stigma around wearing braces later in life.
2. They are hard to clean: While braces do not diminish your oral health in any way, they present unique challenges to keeping your teeth, gums and tongue clean.
3. Necessitate many restrictions on food and beverage intake.
4. It can be expensive, starting from Rs. 50,000 it can go up to Rs. 2,00,000
5. The process of teeth straightening through braces can be long, painful and uncomfortable.

Aligners are made of plastic and are custom made to fit your teeth. Each aligner moves the teeth step by step towards the final position. Small bumps of composite resin (tooth-coloured filling material) are attached to various teeth to help the aligner grip the tooth so it can be moved correctly.

Pros:

1. Can be Removed: Aligners can be removed for eating, brushing your teeth and flossing.
2. Minimal Maintenance: Aligners require minimal maintenance. They can get dingy over time when you wear them, but you can freshen them by using a toothbrush dipped in a small amount of bleach and water.
3. Comfort: Aligners are much more physically comfortable to wear. Since there are no wires or brackets, you don’t have to worry about getting any painful nicks or cuts in your mouth.
4. More Attractive: Since aligners are clear, it doesn’t leave you with a mouth full of metal.

Cons:

1. Expensive: One of the biggest cons of aligners is that they are expensive.
2. Aligners must be worn a minimum of 22 hours a day. Typically, you are only supposed to remove them for eating and practising daily oral hygiene.
3. Inconvenience: Aligners can be cumbersome for some patients. You always have to remove them for eating. You are also required to brush your teeth after each meal before putting them back in your mouth, which means you will be brushing your teeth multiple times per day, which can be inconvenient.

After considering all of the above, it’s time to visit your orthodontist for a comprehensive teeth exam and consultation. They’ll suggest the best-suited treatment for your teeth.

Book your consultation with the best Endodontist in the city of Delhi. Dr Shruti Malik has been practising her craft for the last 10 years and has treated thousands of patients with utmost care and diligence. Begin your smile makeover today!

Call us on 1800-120-5457 to book your appointment or visit radixhealthcare.org