At one time, orthodontic treatment options were actually quite limited. Today, however, there are several routes to consider, and Windy City Orthodontics is going to step in and tell you how to choose between braces and Spark Clear Aligners.
Two Approaches
We’re going to break them down much further, but here are the basic descriptions of traditional braces and clear aligners:
- Traditional braces include multiple components that gradually straighten teeth through periodic adjustments. Brackets may be made of metal or ceramic.
- Clear aligners, such as Spark Clear Aligners, are worn in trays that gradually shift teeth. Each set of aligners is slightly modified from the previous one.
Knowing the Difference
The choice comes down to you in collaboration with Dr. Pakravan and our team. There are many variables and factors that we’ll consider regarding your individual condition and goals for treatment. Between braces and clear aligners, here are some of the main comparisons you may discuss with us:
- Comfort:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: These custom-made plastic trays fit snugly over teeth with smooth edges, reducing the likelihood of gum and cheek irritation. As a result, they generally offer greater comfort compared to traditional braces.
-
- Braces: Initially, traditional braces may cause discomfort and irritate the mouth’s soft tissues. Patients may experience soreness after adjustments or from wires and brackets rubbing against the cheeks or lips.
- Aesthetics:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: For a lot of our adult and teenage patients, one of the main benefits of clear aligners is the fact that they are clear! They offer a remarkably invisible appearance, which is great for those who don’t want their treatment to appear too obvious.
-
- Braces: There are options to make traditional braces less visible, with the main option being clear braces. This offers the same structure as metal braces, with brackets that match the color of your teeth.
- Maintenance:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: These removable aligners facilitate easy cleaning for both the aligners and teeth. Patients can maintain normal brushing and flossing routines without any hindrances.
-
- Braces: Due to their fixed nature, braces necessitate specialized tools like interdental brushes, floss threaders, and water flossers for proper cleaning. Food particles may accumulate around wires and brackets, potentially leading to increased plaque buildup and tooth decay risks.
- Effectiveness:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are primarily effective for treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues like crooked teeth, gaps, and minor bite problems. They may not be suitable for complex cases or severe malocclusions.
-
- Braces: Braces can address a wider range of orthodontic problems, including severe misalignment, overcrowding, overbites, crossbites, and underbites. Their fixed components provide precise control over tooth movement and are recommended for complex cases.
- Treatment Duration:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: Treatment duration varies depending on case complexity and patient compliance, typically ranging from 12 to 18 months on average.
-
- Braces: Treatment duration with braces also varies widely, from 18 months to 3 years, depending on the severity of the orthodontic issues.
- Adjustments:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: This manner of treatment will involve changing to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Each new set works to slowly shift your teeth. Any adjustments are made at home as you receive your new sets, though you’ll also visit our office for regular progress checks.
-
- Braces: Adjustments are made in-office by Dr. Pakravan and our team every four to six weeks, where wires may be tightened or changed, and bracket adjustments are made by the orthodontic team.
- Dietary Restrictions:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are removable, allowing patients to eat most foods without restrictions. However, it’s advised to avoid excess sugar for general oral health.
-
- Braces: Patients with braces should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage wires and brackets. Some foods like nuts, popcorn, and hard candies may need to be avoided entirely.
- Speech:
-
- Spark Clear Aligners: Initial adjustment to clear aligners may cause temporary changes in speech due to the presence of plastic trays. Most patients adapt quickly, and any speech impediments typically resolve within days.
-
- Braces: Speech may be affected initially with braces, especially with certain sounds involving tongue and teeth contact. With time and practice, speech patterns usually return to normal.
Regardless of the path you choose, remember that it’s absolutely critical that you comply with treatment! For clear aligners, this should be done at each and every step. Braces are fixed in place and, therefore, can still be effective even for patients who struggle with compliance. This is one reason they’re great for kids.
An Important Choice
The great news is that both of these options have advantages, and regardless of your choice, we will work with you to achieve the smile of your dreams. We hope this blog has offered some additional clarity if you’re trying to decide on a course of treatment. Dr. Pakravan heads our two incredible offices in Lakeview and Lincoln Park, and they’re here to help!