Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Here at Degenhardt Orthodontics, we believe that there’s never been a better time to straighten your smile. Modern orthodontics offers more options than ever before, from traditional braces to advanced clear aligner systems. Each delivers excellent results, but the right choice depends on your lifestyle, goals, and personal preferences.

Dr. Degenhardt and the team want you to feel empowered when it comes to making decisions about your orthodontic treatment. To that end, let’s go ahead and take a look at the pros and cons of these two awesome treatments! 

Below, we’ll compare both options in terms of appearance, comfort, treatment time, and everyday practicality to help you find your best fit.

Appearance & Style Preferences

For many patients, how orthodontic treatment looks day to day can be just as important as how it performs. Your smile is part of your identity, and we believe you should feel confident at every stage of your journey.

Why Looks Still Matter in Orthodontics

Modern metal braces remain the most recognizable option for correcting even the most complex cases. They’re smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than the braces of decades past. For patients seeking a more subtle appearance, ceramic braces offer a tooth-colored alternative that blends with your natural smile.

Clear aligners provide the most discreet treatment available. The smooth, transparent trays fit snugly over your teeth and are virtually invisible, making them especially appealing for professionals and teens who prefer a low-profile option.

Confidence During Treatment

Both braces and aligners are designed to deliver life-changing results, but they approach confidence in different ways. For some patients, braces offer the reassurance that their orthodontic appliance is always working, since they’re definitely not forgetting to wear them!

Aligners, on the other hand, come with the confidence of an almost invisible solution that fits seamlessly into your daily life.

You can choose the look and style that best suits your comfort and lifestyle, without compromising the quality of your final results.

Comfort & Everyday Lifestyle

Every orthodontic system takes time to adjust to, but comfort plays a big role in which option feels best for you. From how your teeth move to what you can eat, your daily routine may look slightly different depending on whether you choose braces or clear aligners.

Adjusting to Treatment

Braces use small brackets and wires to gently guide your teeth into position. Some mild soreness may occur after adjustments, but it typically fades within a few days. Thanks to modern materials and low-profile brackets, most patients adapt quickly and find braces comfortable to wear long-term.

Clear aligners move teeth using a series of removable trays that are changed every one to two weeks. Each new set exerts gentle pressure, creating mild tightness for the first day or two. Because there are no brackets or wires, aligners are known for smooth edges and a comfortable fit that makes them easy to wear during work, school, or social activities.

Eating & Oral Hygiene

Eating with braces requires a few adjustments, such as avoiding sticky, crunchy, or chewy foods to prevent damage to brackets or wires. Patients also learn new brushing and flossing techniques to keep teeth clean around the appliances.

Clear aligners, however, are removable, so patients can continue enjoying their favorite foods without restriction. You simply remove the trays before eating and brush before putting them back in. This flexibility also makes it easier to maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout treatment.

Treatment Time & Efficiency

Every smile is unique, and so is every treatment timeline. The length of orthodontic care depends on factors like case complexity, patient age, and consistency in following instructions. Both braces and clear aligners are highly effective, but each has advantages depending on your specific goals.

How Long Does Each Option Take?

Traditional braces typically take between 18 and 24 months, though some patients complete treatment sooner depending on their starting alignment. Because braces are fixed in place and work continuously, they often move teeth more efficiently in complex or severe cases.

Clear aligners can achieve excellent results in 12 to 18 months for most mild to moderate cases. Treatment length varies based on how closely patients follow their wear schedule. Aligners are ideal for patients seeking a flexible, shorter treatment—especially those focused on minor adjustments or finishing touches from past orthodontic care.

Compliance & Consistency

Braces are always working, 24 hours a day. That reliability makes them a great option for younger patients or anyone who prefers a more hands-off approach.

Clear aligners, on the other hand, require a little bit of cooperation on your part. They must be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day to stay on track. Consistency is key, and wearing them too little can delay progress. However, for motivated patients, aligners provide both freedom and fast, predictable results.

Dr. Degenhardt helps each patient choose the system that best fits their personality, routine, and long-term goals. Whether you prefer the built-in structure of braces or the flexibility of aligners, the outcome is the same: a confident, healthy smile built to last.

Cost, Maintenance & Appointments

The right orthodontic choice also considers how treatment fits your budget and schedule. Degenhardt Orthodontics believes great smiles should be accessible to everyone, so both braces and clear aligners are designed to deliver lasting results without unnecessary stress.

Upfront Costs vs. Long-Term Value

Regardless of which system you choose, our team will review every financial detail before you begin. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible, interest-free payment options to make treatment manageable for families across Birmingham and Milford. Our goal is transparency, and that means no hidden fees and absolutely no surprises.

Birmingham Or Milford Office Visits & Adjustments

Both treatments require regular check-ins to keep your progress on track, but the frequency and format differ.

• Braces: Adjustments typically occur every 6–8 weeks so we can change wires, replace bands, and ensure teeth are moving as planned.
  
• Aligners: Visits are less frequent and often shorter, since most monitoring involves reviewing fit and progress. Some appointments can even be handled through remote photo submissions for added convenience.
  

Whether you prefer structured, hands-on adjustments or a more flexible schedule, Degenhardt Orthodontics makes staying on track simple and convenient.

Which Option Fits Your Smile Goals?

Every patient’s smile tells a different story, and there’s no single “best” orthodontic option for everyone. The right choice depends on your age, goals, and daily routine, and Dr. Degenhardt will always take the time to match you with the treatment that’s right for your smile. 

For Teens

Braces remain the most popular choice for teens, particularly for complex cases that require precise movement. They’re reliable, always active, and don’t rely on remembering to wear aligners. Plus, today’s low-profile brackets and colorful bands make braces more comfortable and customizable than ever.

For responsible teens who prefer a subtle look, Invisalign Teen provides the same great results with added flexibility. The trays are removable for sports, special occasions, or band practice — giving teens confidence to smile in every situation.

For Adults

Adults often choose clear aligners for their discreet design and convenience. The ability to remove trays for meals and presentations makes aligners a seamless fit for professional life. Many adults also appreciate the lower maintenance and fewer in-office visits.

However, ceramic braces can be an excellent alternative for adults who need the precision of fixed appliances without the metallic look. Dr. Degenhardt regularly helps adult patients unlock beautiful results using both options, and treatment times are often quite a bit faster than you might expect! 

No matter which path you choose, both braces and clear aligners are proven to create lasting, healthy smiles when guided by an experienced orthodontist.

Personalized Orthodontics in Birmingham & Milford

Choosing between braces and clear aligners is an important decision, but it doesn’t have to be a difficult one. Both treatments can transform your smile and boost your confidence when paired with the right plan and expert guidance.

Whether you’re drawn to the structure of braces or the flexibility of clear aligners, the result is the same: a smile you’ll love sharing for life.

Schedule your free consultation today at our Birmingham or Milford office to discover which option is right for you and take the first step toward a smile that truly fits your lifestyle.