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    401 N Railway St Morden MB R6M 1S8 CA

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How to Choose Between Clear Aligners & Braces

Are you unsure whether you should get traditional braces or clear aligners? Our Morden dentists offer some insight on both options to help you come to a decision.

Choosing Between Clear Aligners & Braces

Choosing between clear aligners and braces can be a tough choice. Luckily, we are here to help. Here are some facts to consider about each option while you think about which one to select to help you achieve a straight smile.

Clear Aligners

Transparent clear aligners such as Invisalign (what we offer at Boundary Trails Dental Centre) are custom-made to fit your smile. These removable orthodontic appliances are constructed from clear plastic material. They forgo the brackets and wires that accompany braces and are therefore lower profile in appearance.

You'll receive an individually customized treatment plan that will help you achieve your smile goals. You will typically spend less time in your dentist's office during treatment as you may not need as many checkups or appointments, since your clear aligners wouldn't require regular adjustments as braces do. Your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every 4 to 6 weeks, and take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer questions, and adjust treatment as required. 

Depending on your specific treatment plan, they may be in line with the cost of braces or slightly more expensive. A casual observer will be hard-pressed to see them on your teeth, and you won't have any restrictions on the food and drinks you can enjoy.

However, clear aligners must be worn for 22 hours daily and removed while drinking and eating anything except water. Commitment to treatment, self-discipline, and scheduling meals to fit within the 2 hours allotted daily meal times. 

Braces

Traditional Metal Braces

These are the most common type of braces. Made entirely out of metal and supported by elastics, metal braces have received numerous upgrades in recent decades thanks to advancements in orthodontic technology.

Over time, braces apply continuous pressure to your teeth, slowly shifting them into their new, corrected positions. As this pressure is applied and the teeth move, the bone changes shape to accommodate their new positions. 

Brackets today are more streamlined than those used in years past. Now, you’ll run less risk of the inside of your cheeks or lips growing irritated by a bracket, as the brackets have gotten smaller and more comfortable. However, some people are still reluctant to choose metal braces because of their appearance.

In this case, clear braces may be a viable alternative.

Clear Braces

Many patients choose clear braces as they are better able to blend in with their smile. They are not actually transparent; the brackets are constructed from tooth-coloured ceramic. 

Clear braces come with a caveat: while they are a compromise between metal braces and clear aligners when it comes to appearance, they are actually more brittle and larger than the traditional metal braces you may have seen.

They also tend to be more costly. Therefore, they are commonly used only on the upper front (your most visible) teeth to save on costs.

Keep in mind that your gums may feel sensitive with these, as the larger ceramic brackets can make it more challenging to clean around the brackets, leading to receding or swollen gums should your toothbrush not reach the gum line and enamel. 

Are you wondering whether braces or clear aligners are the best choice for you? Contact our Morden dentists to book an appointment today. 

Featured Services

Boundary Trails Dental Centre offers a comprehensive range of services for children, adults, and seniors.

Morden Dentist, General Dentistry

Technology

We use dental technology to help identify any diseases before they become a significant issue.

Morden Dentist, Cosmetic Services

Dental Implants

Dental Implants can be a long-lasting solution for patients looking to replace missing teeth and restore their smile.

Morden Dentist, Orthodontics

IV Sedation

Patients may choose this option for simple procedures, such as wisdom tooth removal, depending on their level of anxiety 

WayDent, Morden Dentist

Morden Dentist, Contact

New Patients Welcome!

Whether you're in the city of Morden or a surrounding community, we can't wait to welcome you to the Boundary Trails Dental family!

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