Choosing between clear aligners and braces is one of the most common questions we hear at The Ortho Practice. Whether you’re a parent exploring options for your child or an adult looking to enhance your smile discreetly, it’s important to understand the differences, benefits, and limitations of each option.
Both clear aligners and braces are highly effective, but the right choice depends on your individual smile goals, lifestyle, and orthodontic needs. As Specialist Orthodontists with years of experience treating patients across Sydney and NSW, we’re here to guide you through every step of the decision-making process.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners – like Invisalign® – are a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays that gradually move your teeth into alignment. Designed for comfort and discretion, they’re popular among adults and teens who want a more subtle way to straighten their smile.
Benefits of clear aligners:
- Nearly invisible: Clear aligners are made from transparent plastic, making them virtually undetectable when worn.
- Removable: You can take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss, making oral hygiene easier.
- No dietary restrictions: Because they’re removable, you can continue eating the foods you love.
- Fewer appointments: When paired with Dental Monitoring, you can complete much of your treatment from home.
Limitations:
- Discipline is required: Aligners must be worn for 20–22 hours a day. If not worn consistently, treatment may take longer.
- Not ideal for complex cases: While clear aligners are suitable for many patients, some complex bite or alignment issues may be better treated with braces.
What are braces?
Braces use a system of brackets and wires fixed to the teeth to apply continuous, gentle pressure. At The Ortho Practice, we offer a range of modern braces, including:
- 3M Metal Braces – durable, low-profile brackets
- 3M Clarity Clear Braces – ceramic brackets that blend with your teeth
- LightForce™ 3D Braces – custom 3D-printed brackets for a more precise, comfortable fit
Benefits of braces:
- Highly effective: Braces are suitable for even the most complex cases, including severe overcrowding or bite correction.
- No compliance issues: Because braces are fixed, you won’t need to worry about forgetting to wear them.
- Custom options: Modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and less noticeable than ever before.
Limitations:
- Visible: Even clear braces are more noticeable than aligners.
- Oral hygiene requires more effort: Brushing and flossing around brackets can take more time.
- Dietary restrictions: You’ll need to avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage your braces.
What’s the cost difference?
At The Ortho Practice, both braces and clear aligners start from around $6,000, with interest-free payment plans from $120 per fortnight. We’ll provide a personalised quote at your consultation, along with a breakdown of your flexible payment options.
Who is better suited to clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a great fit for:
- Adults or teens looking for a discreet solution
- Patients with mild to moderate alignment issues
- Those with busy schedules who prefer fewer in-clinic visits
- Highly motivated individuals who can wear aligners consistently
Who is better suited to braces?
Braces are typically more suitable for:
- Younger patients who may forget to wear removable aligners
- Individuals with complex alignment or bite concerns
- Those looking for a more hands-off, fixed treatment approach
- Families seeking predictable, time-tested results
So, which is better for me?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. At The Ortho Practice, our team of experienced orthodontists will assess your teeth, lifestyle, and goals to recommend the option that’s best for you or your child.
Clear aligners offer flexibility and discretion, while braces – especially with modern innovations like LightForce™ – remain the gold standard for complex orthodontic needs. Whichever path you choose, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to find out which treatment is right for you?
Book a free Invisalign® consultation or braces assessment at The Ortho Practice today. With clinics in Maroubra and Kincumber, flexible payment plans, and remote Dental Monitoring, expert care has never been more convenient.
