With the advent and popularization of clear aligners as an orthodontic option, many patients assume that traditional braces are obsolete. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! For many patients, they’re still the most effective way to achieve a straight, healthy smile, but when should you choose them? Keep reading to learn who benefits the most from braces.
Severe Crowding or Misalignment
Traditional braces excel at correcting complex cases. Because brackets and wires apply constant, controlled pressure to each tooth individually, they can move teeth more dramatically than removable options allow. Patients with significant crowding, large gaps, or teeth that need substantial repositioning will often see better results with traditional braces than with aligners.
Correcting Bite Issues
Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites can sometimes be handled with clear aligners with a combination of accessories. However, some cases require more precise control over how your jaw and teeth come together.
Traditional braces allow an orthodontist to make detailed adjustments throughout treatment, which can be invaluable for correcting complicated bite problems that affect chewing and speech.
Younger Patients
While Invisalign for younger patients exists (called Invisalign First), traditional braces are still the preferred option for children and some teenagers. Younger children, approximately between the ages of 6 and 11, are in a state of “mixed dentition.” Basically, they still have baby teeth falling out and some adult teeth growing in.
Clear aligners rely on stable teeth to create pressure. If a child’s baby tooth falls out in the middle of treatment, the aligner could lose its grip. Braces use brackets and archwires, which an orthodontist can control more precisely to avoid these issues.
Concerns Over Consistency
Aligner treatment depends heavily on patient compliance, which means they only work if worn as directed (typically 20 to 22 hours a day). For patients who know they’ll struggle with that level of consistency, traditional braces remove that factor altogether. Since they can’t be taken out, there’s no risk of treatment slowing down due to forgotten or skipped wear time.
Budget Considerations
Traditional braces are often more affordable than clear aligner treatment, making them a more accessible option. This can be very important for patients working within a specific budget who don’t want to compromise on results.
Every smile is different, and the right treatment depends on the specific issue being corrected. If you’re weighing your options, a consultation with your orthodontist is the best way to find out whether traditional braces are the right fit for your goals and your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Megan Hanson is a board-certified orthodontist providing traditional braces, clear aligners, and comprehensive orthodontic care at Hanson Orthodontics of Allen. She is committed to helping patients of all ages achieve confident, healthy smiles through personalized treatment plans. Call (972) 727-1153 to schedule your free consultation today.