Braces or clear aligners: how to decide
Side by side
| Metal braces | Clear aligners | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Visible brackets and wires | Nearly invisible plastic trays |
| Removable | No | Yes, for eating, drinking anything except water, and cleaning |
| Wear time | Always working | Must be worn 20–22 hours a day |
| Suits | Simple to complex cases | Mild to moderate crowding and spacing; many but not all complex cases |
| Eating | Avoid hard and sticky food | No food restrictions while trays are out; brush before putting them back |
| Cleaning | Harder; food traps around brackets | Easier; normal brushing and flossing |
| Discomfort | Soreness after adjustments; brackets can rub cheeks | Pressure for a day or two with each new tray |
| Fee at Toothsmith (incl. GST) | $3,500 | $5,500 (Angel Aligners) or $6,500 (Invisalign) |
Fees include X-rays, 3D scan, photos and orthodontic treatment visits. Retainers are $150 per jaw. See braces and clear aligners and fees.
Questions that usually decide it
- Will you wear aligners 20–22 hours every day? If you are likely to leave them out, braces are more reliable.
- How complex is the movement? Significant bite correction or rotating some teeth can be more predictable with braces.
- How much does appearance matter at work or in photos during treatment?
- Do you snack or sip drinks often? Aligners must come out for anything except water.
Can adults have braces?
Yes. There is no upper age limit as long as the gums and bone are healthy. Gum disease should be treated first, because moving teeth through inflamed gums can make it worse. See bleeding gums.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on the case, commonly around one to two years for braces or aligners. Your dentist will estimate this after taking records.
After treatment: retainers
Teeth tend to move back. Wearing a retainer as instructed, usually at night in the long term, is what keeps the result.
Paying
Braces and clear aligners are not covered by CHAS or MediSave. Some enhanced insurance plans cover orthodontics; see dental insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Are aligners as effective as braces?
For many mild to moderate cases, yes, provided they are worn as instructed. For some complex movements braces are more predictable. Your dentist will advise after assessing your teeth.
Do braces hurt?
Teeth are usually sore for a few days after braces are fitted and after adjustments. Aligners cause pressure for a day or two with each new tray.
Is there an age limit for braces?
No upper age limit. Healthy gums and bone matter more than age.
Can I use MediSave for braces?
No. Orthodontic treatment is not MediSave-claimable or CHAS-claimable.
Questions about your teeth?
Book a check-up. You will hear what we find, the options and the fee before anything is done.