CLEAR ALIGNERS VS BRACES: WHICH ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT IS BEST FOR YOUR PATIENTS?

Traditional braces and clear aligners are both effective options for achieving straighter teeth. However, they cater to different patient preferences and clinical needs.

As a dental professional, understanding the strengths and limitations of each treatment is essential in helping patients make an informed choice that aligns with their lifestyle, goals and the complexity of their case.

While traditional braces remain a dependable choice, particularly for complex cases, clear aligners, such as Smilelign, have become the preferred solution for many patients due to their aesthetic appeal, comfort, and convenience.

Aesthetic appeal

For patients prioritising aesthetics, clear aligners are a game changer.

The transparent, custom-made trays fit snugly over the teeth, making them virtually invisible.

This feature is particularly appealing for adults who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional braces.

While braces, especially modern ceramic ones, have options to minimise their appearance, they are still far more noticeable than aligners.

Patients who choose clear aligners often feel more confident throughout their treatment, as their orthodontic care goes unnoticed by others.

Comfort and convenience

One of the most significant advantages of clear aligners is the level of comfort they offer.

Designed to fit perfectly over the teeth, aligners eliminate the irritation that can often be caused by brackets and wires.

While there can still be some mild discomfort with each new set of aligners, this is typically minimal.

Patients also have the freedom to clear aligners for meals, brushing, and flossing, making it easier to maintain excellent oral hygiene and enjoy their favourite foods without restrictions.

Compliance and maintenance

Clear aligners offer a more flexible treatment experience. They are easy to clean, and patients can continue their regular oral hygiene routine without the challenges of cleaning around brackets and wires.

However, the success of the treatment heavily relies on the patient’s ability to wear the aligners for the recommended 20–22 hours per day. This commitment is essential for achieving the best possible results.

In contrast, traditional braces require less attention to wear time but demand thorough cleaning to avoid plaque build-up and staining around the brackets.

Patients must also avoid certain foods that could damage the braces, which adds an extra layer of care and maintenance.

What makes Smilelign Clear Aligners stand out?

Smilelign offers numerous advantages that make it an exceptional choice for both patients and dental professionals.

With advanced treatment planning software and a commitment from S4S to provide exceptional service, Smilelign ensures that both comfort and precision are at the forefront of the treatment journey.

• More movement per aligner: Smilelign aligners move teeth 0.3mm per stage, meaning fewer aligners are needed to complete treatment.
• Premium material: Made from material just 0.8mm thick, Smilelign aligners are three times stronger than standard aligner materials, ensuring superior treatment quality and optimal patient comfort.
• Unlimited refinements: We offer free refinements within a two-year period.
• Free whitening & retention: Every new Smilelign case includes complimentary Vitalisse whitening, along with our Armadillo Whitening Trays, designed for comfort and effective retention while bleaching.

By offering Smilelign, dental professionals can provide an effective, discreet, and comfortable orthodontic solution, helping patients achieve their desired smile with minimal disruption to their daily lives.

Dentist training: Looking to expand your knowledge of clear aligners?

If you're looking to incorporate Smilelign clear aligners into your practice, the Smilelign Clear Aligners: Everything You Need to Know dentist training course is the ideal starting point.

Available both online and in person, this in-depth dentist training course is designed to equip you with all the essential knowledge and practical expertise to confidently offer Smilelign treatments to your patients.

Led by Dr Caroline Hemington, a Platinum Smilelign provider with extensive experience in aesthetic dentistry, this course provides valuable insights from her years of practice.

The course includes 6 hours of verifiable ECPD and combines theory with hands-on workshops, detailed case studies, and expert instruction to ensure you feel fully prepared to integrate Smilelign aligners into your practice.

Whether you're new to clear aligners or looking to refine your techniques, this comprehensive seminar offers all the tools you need to deliver exceptional orthodontic results with confidence.

With limited spaces available, book now to avoid missing out!