Clear Aligners or Metal Braces? An Orthodontic Choice Guide

Besides metal brackets, which are what 'braces' brings to mind, there are now clear aligners, ceramic brackets and lingual brackets on the tongue side. Which to choose depends not only on aesthetic preference but also on how crowded the teeth are, bite problems and the patient's discipline. Below we summarise the questions we meet most often.

Comparison

• Metal braces: the most predictable method in complex cases; treatment time 18–24 months, cost from 38,000 TRY, the most affordable option.
• Ceramic braces: aesthetic because they match tooth colour; slightly more expensive than metal and more fragile.
• Clear aligners: removable, precise and comfortable; for mild to moderate crowding they take 8–14 months and cost from 95,000 TRY. They must be worn at least 22 hours a day.
• Lingual braces: invisible because they sit behind the teeth; cost and adjustment time are higher.

Are clear aligners suitable for everyone?

No. Severe crowding, marked jaw discrepancies and some tooth rotations are hard to correct with aligners; in these cases hybrid methods combining aligners and brackets are used. In patients who do not wear the aligner long enough, treatment lengthens and the result may differ from expected. That is why the orthodontist evaluates suitability together with you using simulation at the first visit.

After treatment

When orthodontic treatment ends, teeth tend to move back to their old positions. That is why a clear or fixed retainer is needed after treatment; retainers are usually worn day and night in the first year and at night afterwards. Without a retainer the gain can be lost quickly.

Orthodontics in adults

In adults, gum health and the state of old fillings and crowns are always assessed before treatment. In patients with periodontal disease, gum treatment is done first and then orthodontics. Orthodontics can be safely applied after age 40.

Daily life during treatment

• With metal braces there is mild pain and cheek irritation in the first days; orthodontic wax helps. Hard and sticky foods are avoided.
• Clear aligners are removed for meals; you need to brush and reinsert after each meal. Drinks other than water are not taken with the aligners in.
• With both methods a check every four to eight weeks, regular scaling and fluoride support are recommended.
• A custom mouthguard is prepared for patients who play sports.

Factors affecting cost

Orthodontic fees depend on duration, difficulty of the case, the system used and the extra procedures needed (extractions, mini-screws, expansion). The whole fee is not asked up front; at our clinic payment is split into an initial payment and monthly check-up payments. The retainer after treatment is included.

This article is for general information and does not replace an examination; always consult your dentist before deciding on treatment.