Braces vs. Clear Aligners: What’s the Difference?

Traditional Braces (Brackets & Wires)

Traditional braces use small brackets bonded to your teeth and connected by wires to gently guide your teeth into proper alignment.

Best for:

• More complex cases (severe crowding, bite issues)

• Patients who prefer a fixed, no-removal option

• Younger patients or those less likely to wear aligners consistently

Benefits:

• Highly effective for all types of tooth movement

• No need to remember to remove/insert trays

• Consistent, predictable results

The Treatment Process (please note that times and techniques are unique to each case, this is just a general overview of basic treatment process) :

• Brackets placed on teeth

• Regular adjustments every 4–8 weeks

• Average treatment time: 12–24 months

Clear Aligners (SureSmile® & ClearCorrect®)

Clear aligners are custom-made, nearly invisible trays that gradually shift your teeth into place.

Best for:

• Mild to moderate alignment issues

• Adults and teens wanting a discreet option

• Patients committed to wearing aligners 20–22 hours/day

Benefits:

• Virtually invisible

• Removable for eating and brushing

• More comfortable with no brackets or wires

The Treatment Process (please note that times and techniques are unique to each case, this is just a general overview of basic treatment process) :

• Series of custom trays worn daily

• Switch aligners every 1–2 weeks

• Periodic check-ins

• Average treatment time: 6–18 months

We use advanced digital scanning technology with the Shining 3D ELF scanner—no messy impressions required. You can even see a simulation to show you an example of how your teeth will shift and turn into the smile of your dreams.