Why Are Clear Correct Better Than Traditional Braces?

Misaligned teeth can be caused by improper alignment of the jaw during childhood. Injury is another common cause of misaligned teeth. When you get an injury in the mouth, there is a risk that it may break your teeth or damage the surrounding tissue in your mouth. This can also lead to misalignment of the teeth and pain when eating. Genetics can also be another cause. Teeth alignment is predetermined at birth and passed on to the offspring.

Braces are the common orthodontic treatment for correcting misaligned teeth. The problem with braces is that they can be difficult to keep clean, affecting the foods you eat. Clear Correct in Palm Harbor, FL, is a popular alternative to traditional braces because it uses clear plastic aligners.

How Do the Clear Correct Differ from Traditional Braces?

Both the Clear Correct and traditional braces can align the teeth. However, there are a few differences, and our dentist in Palm Harbor will choose the ideal treatment.

Appearance 

1. Clear Correct

Clear Correct aligners are a type of orthodontic appliance custom-made for the patient’s teeth. They are made out of thin, clear plastic and can be removed for cleaning and eating.

You can use Clear Correct as an alternative to metal braces because they don’t have metal brackets or wires, making them more comfortable for patients.

1. Traditional braces

The dentist will attach the wires to the teeth to reposition their teeth. Traditional braces are devices used to correct crooked teeth, spaces between teeth, and overbite. They work by using the principle of constant pressure on the tooth so that it moves into the desired position.

Length of Treatment

Invisible aligners treat mild to moderate cases of misaligned teeth. They work by applying pressure on the teeth and gradually moving them into their desired position. The treatment time lasts between 6 and 18 months, and you will need to wear the aligners for 22 hours a day.

The traditional braces are used for severe malocclusion. The timeline of getting traditional braces depends on how severe your case is, but it usually ranges from one year to two years.

What are Clear Correct Pros and Cons?

ClearCorrect Pros:

1. Comfort: ClearCorrect aligners are generally more comfortable than traditional braces since they don’t have metal brackets and wires that can irritate the mouth.
2. Removability: The aligners are removable, which allows you to eat and drink without restrictions. This is indeed a significant advantage over traditional braces, where certain foods must be avoided.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: There is no visible metal in your mouth, making the treatment more discreet, which is a major advantage for many adults and teens.
4. Convenience: While the aligners are worn most of the day, treatment can be more convenient because they can be taken out briefly for important events, photos, etc.
5. Less frequent adjustments: Unlike traditional braces that require frequent visits for adjustments, ClearCorrect typically requires checkups every six to eight weeks.

However, your statement, “The treatment is done at home,” can be misleading. Although you wear the aligners at home and don’t need frequent office visits, a dental professional still supervises the treatment, and it’s only partially a home-based treatment.

ClearCorrect Cons:

1. Effectiveness for Complex Cases: You mentioned that traditional braces might be more effective in certain cases. This is true—ClearCorrect may not be suitable for complex orthodontic issues, such as severe malocclusion or significant tooth rotations, where traditional braces could be more effective.
2. Discipline Required: ClearCorrect aligners require a high level of discipline. The patient must wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day and maintain strict oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup on the aligners.
3. Potential for Damage: Aligners can indeed crack if not handled carefully. They are made of plastic so that they can be damaged, requiring replacements that could add cost or delay the treatment.
4. Cost: In some cases, ClearCorrect can be more expensive than traditional braces, though this depends on the specific treatment plan.
5. Speech Impact: While temporary, some users experience slight speech difficulties when adjusting to the aligners.

The main problem is that the cracked aligner may become loose and fall out of place. This makes it difficult to wear your aligners and maintain your progress so far in treatment. Go to an emergency dentist near you for treatment if you notice the Clear Correct damage.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Traditional Braces?

There are many advantages and disadvantages to traditional braces. One advantage is that they provide more stability and control than other types of treatment, such as Clear Correct or clear aligners. They can also be used for more severe cases, such as crowded or misaligned teeth, deep bites, and crossbites.

One disadvantage is that traditional braces may be uncomfortable for some people because they can cause sore spots on your tongue and cheeks or even lead to tooth decay if you don’t take good care of your mouth while wearing them.

Furthermore, they take longer to put on and take off than other braces. You will need to visit Dr. Cecilia Sorelle for checkups more often.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Palm Harbor Smiles for more information about our treatments, from Clear Correct to getting dental implants near you.