What if someone wants to have straight teeth and a better smile, but does not know whether to choose braces or clear aligners? This is a common question many patients face. Both braces and aligners can fix crooked teeth, gaps, and bite problems, and the idea of straightening teeth actually goes back to ancient Greek and Egyptian times.¹
Braces and clear aligners are both good options, but they work in different ways. Some patients are better candidates for braces, while others are better candidates for aligners.
By the end of this post, you will understand what braces and aligners are, how they work, who should get them, how long they take, and what daily life is like with each option.
Figure 1. Ancient Egyptian dentistry illustration. Image from Wikimedia Commons (public domain).⁷
What Are Braces? ²˒³
Braces are a dental treatment that uses metal brackets and wires to move teeth into the correct position. The brackets are attached to the teeth, and a wire connects all of them together. Over time, the dentist adjusts the wire, and this slowly moves the teeth. Patients also need to take care of their braces by keeping their teeth clean and wearing rubber bands or other appliances if the dentist recommends them.
Braces work by applying pressure on the teeth. Thus, slowly move the teeth into the correct position. The dentist adjusts the braces every few weeks. These adjustments help continue the movement.
Braces stay on your teeth the entire time. You cannot remove them. This means they are always working, even when you are not thinking about them.
There are different types of braces:
• Metal braces (most common)
• Ceramic braces (tooth-colored)
• Lingual braces (placed behind the teeth)
What Are Clear Aligners? ⁴˒⁵˒⁶
Clear aligners are plastic trays that fit over your teeth. Instead of one system, they use many trays. They are custom-made for each patient. Each tray moves the teeth a little bit at a time.
You wear each tray for about 1–2 weeks, and then you switch to a new one. Over time, your teeth move step by step into a better position.
Unlike braces, aligners can be removed. You take them out when eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. So, you need to think about them.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces? ⁴˒⁵˒⁶
Braces are a good option for patients who have more serious dental problems.
You may need braces if you have:
- Severe crowding (teeth overlapping a lot)
- Large gaps
- Bite problems
- Teeth that are very rotated
Braces are strong and give the dentist more control. Because of this, they are often used for more complex cases.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Aligners? ⁴˒⁵˒⁶
Aligners are a good option for patients with mild to moderate problems.
You may be a good candidate if you have:
- Mild crowding
- Small gaps
- Minor bite issues
However, there is one very important condition. You must wear the aligners 20–22 hours every day.
If you do not wear them enough, they will not work properly.
Who Should Not Get Aligners?
Aligners may not work well if you:
- Have severe dental problems
- Do not like wearing something for long hours
- Do not follow instructions carefully
In these cases, braces are usually a better option because they do not depend on patient discipline.
What Is the Treatment Process Like?
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Braces usually take about 18–24 months. Some cases may take longer.
Aligners usually take about 6–18 months for mild cases.
The time depends on how complex the problem is and how well the patient follows instructions.
What About Cost?
While aligners can sometimes be cheaper, the cost of braces and aligners is often similar. It depends on:
• How long treatment takes
• How complex the case is
• The type of system used
Some insurance plans may cover part of the treatment. A consultation is the best way to understand the exact cost.
What Is Daily Life Like?
Braces stay on your teeth all the time, so patients need to avoid sugary drinks/foods and spend extra time cleaning around the brackets and wires. Aligners are easier to clean because they can be removed, but patients must wear them every day and avoid sugary drinks unless the aligners are taken out.
References
- Frey Orthodontic Centers. When Were Braces Invented? Frey Orthodontic Centers. Available from: https://freyorthocenters.com/when-were-braces-invented/
- Cleveland Clinic. Braces: Types & How They Work. Cleveland Clinic; 2025. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24601-teeth-braces
- Oral-B. Braces: Types & How They Work. Oral-B; 2025. Available from: https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/braces/braces-types-how-they-work
- How Invisalign Treatment Works. Invisalign. Available from: https://www.invisalign.com/how-invisalign-works
- Mayo Clinic. Invisible Aligners: What You Need to Know. Mayo Clinic. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/invisible-aligners/faq-20437802
- Cleveland Clinic. Clear Aligners: What They Are & How They Work. Cleveland Clinic; 2024. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23511-clear-aligners
- Wikimedia Commons. Ancient Egypt Dentistry2.jpg. Available from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ancient_Egypt_Dentistry2.jpg
Credits:
Authored by: Omar Halimi
Edited by: Stephanie Diego DDS MPH
Published on May 25, 2026