Are Clear Aligners the Right Choice for You?

For years, braces have been the go-to teeth straightening option for both teens and adults. While braces are effective, many patients complained about their undesirable appearance, discomfort, and incompatibility with certain foods. These concerns led to the prevalence of clear aligners as alternatives to braces in the late 1990s. The transparent aligners are nearly invisible and do not contain any metal wiring, solving the appearance issue. And because the metal wiring was gone, there was no concern about eating certain foods. While most people searching ‘clear aligners near me’ will see good results with this teeth straightening option, about 10% of patients still require traditional braces. 

So, how do you know if clear aligners are the right choice for you? At Lee Dental Centers, we’ve seen many patients come through our doors who are great candidates for these alternatives to braces. Here are five instances in which you might choose clear aligners over traditional braces.

1. When Appearance During Treatment Matters

Many teens and adults want straighter teeth without the undesirable appearance of metal brackets and wires. Clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them one of the most popular alternatives to braces for anyone who prefers a discreet option. If you know you’re going to be making a lot of public appearances, going to be filmed, or have pictures taken during your treatment, you may want to look into clear aligners. Patients searching for ‘clear aligners near me’ often prioritize confidence while smiling, speaking, or being photographed during treatment.

2. When Comfort Is a Top Priority

Traditional braces can irritate the mouth. Metal brackets and wires often rub against the cheeks and gums. What’s worse, metal wires break or bend, requiring immediate care. Clear aligners are custom-made based on a mold of your own teeth with smooth plastic, making them a more comfortable choice for many patients. For those exploring modern teeth straightening options, aligners are often appealing because they minimize soreness and eliminate emergency visits for broken wires.

3. When Flexibility Fits a Busy Lifestyle

One complaint we often hear about traditional braces is the inability to eat certain foods. Gummies and popcorn are just a few of the foods that are usually restricted while patients wear braces. With metal braces, even brushing and flossing can sometimes be a chore. Clear aligners, on the other hand, are removable, allowing patients to eat, brush, and floss without restrictions. This flexibility is ideal for people with busy schedules, frequent social events, or professional commitments. Compared to braces, clear aligners offer a convenient solution for patients looking for lifestyle-friendly alternatives to braces that don’t interrupt daily routines.

4. When Oral Hygiene Is a Concern

Maintaining oral hygiene can be more challenging with traditional braces. Special floss is required, and reaching between teeth is nearly impossible. Since clear aligners can be removed for brushing and flossing, they help reduce the risk of plaque buildup and cavities during treatment. Patients searching for ‘clear aligners near me’ often appreciate this advantage when comparing different teeth straightening options for long-term oral health.

5. When Treating Mild to Moderate Alignment Issues

Clear aligners are very effective for correcting mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues. While severe orthodontic cases may still require braces, many patients are surprised to learn they’re excellent candidates for clear aligners. In fact, it’s estimated that clear aligners are a good option for 90% of patients looking for teeth straightening options. Clear aligners are the most advanced teeth straightening alternative and provide predictable results without the look and feel of traditional braces.

At Lee Dental Centers, we offer a variety of teeth straightening options. These options include clear aligners as an alternative to braces. If you’re interested in teeth straightening with more flexibility, comfort, and a more desirable appearance, book your appointment with us or call us at 210-681-5555.