Are Braces the Better Choice Over Aligners? Here’s How to Tell

June 11, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — dailysmilesmacarthur @ 5:39 pm
a young teen smiling with braces

Were you referred for orthodontic treatment, but you’re unsure of whether or not traditional braces or clear aligners are the best treatment choice for you? While the idea of discreet and removable aligners may sound nice, you may not be a good candidate for this treatment option. Read on to learn what situations braces may work better than Invisalign aligners and how you can find out what treatments you’re a good candidate for.

The Difference Between Clear Aligners & Braces

Clear aligners are an incredibly popular choice among patients of all ages because they allow you to straighten your teeth without having noticeable metal brackets and wires attached to them. However, they aren’t able to handle the same types of problems that traditional metal braces can. While clear aligners allow for discretion and convenience, if you aren’t a good candidate for the treatment, they won’t be as convenient as you think.

One of the most notable differences between aligners and braces is that braces apply a consistent, gradual pressure to your teeth to shift them into their ideal positions. As a result, patients with more complex alignment issues, like malocclusion, can see faster, more reliable results than they would with clear aligners.

Signs That Braces are the Right Choice for You

If you’re wondering whether you’ll be a better candidate for braces or aligners, the best place to start is with a consultation from your dentist! Typically, braces are recommended when more complex or severe orthodontic issues are present, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, or dramatic misalignment. In more aesthetic-forward cases, Invisalign aligners are able to provide patients with a discreet way to get the results they want, but if aligners were to be used in cases where braces were recommended, the ideal results would likely take much longer to achieve.

The Benefits of Choosing Braces for Treatment

When you opt for braces, you’ll be able to enjoy a number of benefits that make the scales tip in this treatment’s favor. Some of these advantages include:

  • Faster results for more complex cases since they aren’t removable and more reliable.
  • Ability to address a greater range of orthodontic problems.
  • They can sometimes be more affordable than clear aligner treatment.
  • Excellent for patients of all ages.

Want to learn more about braces treatment in Irving and how it can help you achieve a harmonious bite and aligned smile? Schedule a consultation with your Irving dentist today!

About the Author

Dr. Rafiq Hirji’s advanced training in orthodontics allows him to provide both traditional braces and clear aligners under one roof. In addition to offering trusted, tried-and-true results, our team strives to make treatment as affordable as possible by accepting dental insurance benefits and even offering financing through CareCredit. Schedule a consultation by visiting Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or calling 972-546-4114 to learn more about orthodontic treatment today.