Research shows that more and more people are having their teeth straightened in later life – with over three-quarters (76%) of British orthodontists reporting an increase in adult patients.
Beyond achieving your dream smile, there are many benefits to teeth straightening – including improved self-esteem and oral health.
However, with such a range of orthodontic treatments available, it can be tricky to know which option is right for you – particularly when deciding between fixed braces and clear aligners.
Here, we’ll compare the pros and cons of fixed braces and clear aligners – including everything from cost and comfort to appearance and maintenance.
What are fixed braces?
Fixed braces, also known as train track braces, are one of the best known teeth straightening methods.
Wires and elastic bands are attached to small metal brackets that are then bonded to each tooth. The wire is gradually tightened throughout treatment, creating a gentle pressure that moves teeth into the desired position. In some cases, elastic bands or coil springs may also be used to improve bite issues, help close gaps, or increase space between teeth.
Your dentist or orthodontist will check and adjust your braces every four to 10 weeks to keep your teeth moving in the right direction. Once treatment ends and braces are removed, you’ll be given fixed or removable retainers to maintain your new smile.
Fixed braces can be used to fix a range of orthodontic problems – from slight overbites and minor cosmetic issues to more complex issues like a deep underbite or excessive overcrowding.
As well as traditional metal braces, there are other, more discreet types of fixed brace, like lingual braces, Damon braces, and ceramic braces. Total Orthodontics has more information on different types of fixed braces.
What are clear aligners?
Teeth straightening with clear aligners involves wearing a series of near-invisible, custom-made retainers. The discreet aligners are moulded to the shape of your teeth for a precise, comfortable fit and work by applying gentle pressure without using traditional metal wires or brackets. Aligners are also removable, so you can take them out to eat or brush your teeth.
Aligners will be changed every week or so as your teeth adapt and change. Some people may also need temporary attachments added to their teeth, known as engagers. These tiny tooth-coloured bumps help aligners create pressure on the correct area of your tooth.
Clear aligners can correct minor crowding, gaps between teeth, and, in some cases, bite concerns, such as overlapping teeth or overbite issues.
There are a range of clear aligners available, including the increasingly popular Invisalign system. The right option for you will depend on your clinical needs and your dentist or orthodontist’s recommendations. You can find out more about clear aligners on Total Orthodontics’ website.
Fixed braces or clear aligners – which is best for me?
Fixed braces and clear aligners are both highly effective teeth straightening methods. The right option for you will depend on several factors, which we’ll cover below.
Complexity of dental issues
The right teeth straightening treatment for you can depend on how complex your dental needs are.
Fixed braces are generally recommended for more complex cases, such as extensive overcrowding, deep overbites, and abnormal tooth eruptions – and, in some cases, they may be the only option. Fixed braces are popular for their predictable, precise results. And, unlike removable braces, treatment can’t be interrupted by taking them out for long periods.
Clear aligners can also treat various dental issues, including some complex ones. However, they’re often better suited to minor or cosmetic concerns, such as small gaps or slight overcrowding. For example, Invisalign Lite is designed to treat purely cosmetic issues. Your dentist can explain whether clear aligners are suitable for you during an initial consultation.
Appearance
One key thing that people consider is how braces will look. Until recently, fixed metal braces and metal-fronted retainers were the only teeth straightening methods available. But clear aligners now allow people the option of treatment that’s barely noticeable.
That said, there are also some more discreet types of fixed brace available. This includes lingual braces, Damon braces, and ceramic braces. For example, lingual braces are attached to the inside of your teeth, making them almost invisible.
Comfort
Whatever teeth straightening method you choose, it can take time to get used to them. Both fixed braces and clear aligners can initially cause some discomfort as they gradually move teeth into different positions.
However, research suggests that, overall, clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional fixed braces.
Fixed braces can be painful when first fitted and each time they’re tightened. It’s also not uncommon for wires and brackets to cause cuts and sores on your tongue, gums, and cheeks – particularly during the early stages of treatment. But, many people find that this discomfort fades over time. Plus, there are things that can help, such as, using orthodontic wax to provide cushioning between your mouth and the brackets.
On the other hand, because clear aligners are smooth and custom-made to fit your teeth, they shouldn’t rub the insides of your mouth. You can still expect some discomfort when they’re first fitted; for example, your teeth may ache or feel tender. However, this usually wears off quickly and the more you wear them, the more natural they’ll feel.
Length of treatment
Generally speaking, treatment with clear aligners is quicker than with traditional braces.
According to Total Orthodontics, treatment typically takes one to two years for fixed braces, and 12 and 18 months for clear aligners. However, this can vary significantly and is dependent on each individual. For example, depending on your case, Invisalign can offer results in just six months.
Your dentist will be able to advise you how long your treatment should take during an initial consultation.
Maintenance
The main difference between fixed braces and clear aligners is that aligners can be removed. Both have benefits and drawbacks and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, there are a few things to consider.
Fixed braces are permanently bonded to the teeth using wires and brackets, meaning only your orthodontist can remove them at the end of treatment. Some people like the idea of having fixed braces for this reason, because there’s very little that you have to do yourself and you don’t have to worry about taking them out or putting them in.
On the other hand, it’s worth noting that having clear aligners is a commitment. For best results, clear aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day and it’s the patient’s responsibility to do so. Wearing them for less than the recommended time can impact how effective the treatment is.
This means wearing your aligners at all times apart from when eating and drinking (anything other than plain water); and brushing and flossing each time before putting them back in. You’ll also need to clean your aligners thoroughly every morning and evening. However, for many people, being able to take their aligners out makes the effort worth it.
Both fixed and removable braces place some restrictions on what you can eat. Experts advise avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods like apples, crusty bread, boiled sweets, and hard pizza bases, as these can damage brackets and wires and lead to bacteria growth. Coffee, tea, wine, and certain spices, soups, and curries that are rich in colour are also best to avoid as these can cause staining.
Maintaining oral hygiene
Having fixed braces or clear aligners requires careful dental care and the biggest risk to both treatments is poor oral hygiene. Not brushing or flossing your teeth properly can cause food debris and plaque to build up in and around the brackets of fixed braces or within clear aligner trays.
If left unchecked, poor oral hygiene can cause various issues including staining, tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. If you have fixed metal braces, you can also end up with permanent marks on your teeth.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is naturally more straightforward with clear aligners because it’s easy to reach all areas of your teeth when brushing and flossing. Your oral hygiene routine essentially doesn’t have to change. With fixed braces, however, you’ll need to be particularly stringent. This includes having regular appointments with your hygienist to make sure everything’s as it should be.
Check out our article, 9 ways to improve oral hygiene, for further reading.
Cost
For many people, cost is a leading factor in whether to have fixed braces or clear aligners.
Generally, traditional fixed metal braces can be less expensive than more discreet options, such as fixed lingual braces and Invisalign treatment. However, the cost of treatment will depend on your individual needs.
Total Orthodontics has more information about treatment price guidelines on their website.
Final thoughts…
Teeth straightening is becoming increasingly popular among adults. If you’re considering treatment, you might wonder whether fixed braces or clear aligners are best for you. Looking at everything from cost and appearance to comfort and maintenance, we hope you’ve found this article helpful.
For further reading, you might be interested in our article: Why is teeth straightening becoming more popular over 50? Alternatively, head over to the oral health section of our website.
What teeth straightening experience do you have? Is it something you’re considering? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
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