Braces or aligners: what to choose?

Many people believe that if a misaligned bite doesn’t cause obvious discomfort, there’s no need to correct it. But is that really the case?

Experience shows that a healthy and beautiful smile is more than just a sign of success and confidence.

Here are some issues that a misaligned bite can cause:

• Chewing pressure is distributed unevenly, leading to excessive tooth wear, and exposure of the tooth neck and roots.
• The temporomandibular joint can be affected, causing headaches and bruxism—jaw muscle spasms during sleep.
• Daily oral hygiene becomes more challenging, promoting the development of cavities and periodontal disease.
• A misaligned bite can affect posture, alter facial proportions, and lead to psychological discomfort.

If you've been putting off a visit to the orthodontist, now is the time to take a step towards a healthy and beautiful smile.

Today, two main systems are available for correcting bites: braces and aligners. Aligners are high-tech, removable orthodontic trays, custom-made using virtual modeling.

They have gained popularity due to their advantages:

• Aesthetics. Aligners are nearly invisible thanks to their thin, transparent material and 3D printing.
• Minimal discomfort. Each tray targets specific teeth, making the correction process more comfortable.
• Convenience. Aligners are easy to remove for eating and brushing, allowing you to maintain your usual lifestyle.

However, the removable nature of aligners can also be a drawback! Despite their advanced technology and aesthetic appeal, aligners exert pressure on the jaw, which can cause discomfort. The urge to remove the tray can prolong treatment or undermine its effectiveness.

Aligners are best suited for disciplined patients. If you struggle with consistency, braces may be a better option.

It’s important to remember that aligners aren’t suitable for every case and are not used for children under 14. Braces, unlike aligners, can correct complex bite issues, and modern braces are both effective and aesthetically pleasing.

• Lingual braces are hidden, as they are attached to the inner side of the teeth near the tongue.
• Ceramic braces are less noticeable compared to metal ones, thanks to the properties of ceramics.
• Sapphire braces are made from translucent crystals that allow light to pass through, making them nearly invisible.

Remember, the key to a beautiful and healthy smile is following oral care and orthodontic instructions, along with regular visits to your orthodontist.

What should you choose: aesthetics or comprehensive correction? The choice is yours! Be sure to consult a specialist!