Straightening teeth no longer means metal braces only. Clear aligners and fixed braces both move teeth gradually, but they suit different cases and lifestyles.
Clear aligners
A series of clear, removable trays, each worn for about 20 to 22 hours a day. They are hard to notice, you take them out to eat and brush, and they suit many cases of mild to moderate crowding and spacing.
Fixed braces
Brackets bonded to the teeth with a wire, in metal or tooth-coloured ceramic. Because they cannot be removed, they work without depending on daily wear, and they handle more complex tooth movements.
What decides between them
The complexity of the case, your age, and whether you will wear aligners consistently. An orthodontic assessment with photos, X-rays and a scan shows which options are possible.
After treatment
Both end with a retainer. Wearing it as advised is what keeps the teeth from moving back.
Our orthodontic specialist reviews your case and explains the options and the expected treatment time.
This article is general information and does not replace an examination.
