La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – Undergoing orthodontic treatment is a commitment, one that can take several months or possibly even years. So, at Gire Orthodontics, we understand when patients ask for an option that is the most efficient. Unfortunately, that’s not always a cut-and-dry answer.
“The answer to what treatment option is the fastest can often depend on who you ask,” says Dr. Gire. “Some will say metal braces, some will say clear aligners, like Spark or Invisalign. My answer is whatever option the patient will be most compliant in using.”
Today’s metal braces are sleeker and more efficient than ever, making them a top option for perfecting smiles. Self-ligating braces, such as the Damon System, are much more efficient than traditional metal braces. With less friction and resistance, treatment times can be shortened considerably. But clear aligners have also come a long way since their introduction, making it a viable treatment option for patients with a host of malocclusions. For patients with the most severe malocclusions, metal braces may still be the best option simply because they can place the force necessary to guide even the most stubborn malocclusion.
At Gire Orthodontics, we want to help you find the straightening solution that works best for you. That means finding one that meets your smile needs and that fits into your lifestyle. All of our options offer unique advantages, so the best option for you may be different than the best option for another patient.
Let’s take a look at some of the advantages and possible disadvantages of both metal braces and clear aligners like Spark or Invisalign.
Self-ligating metal braces
Advantages
- Highly effective for even the most complicated cases
- Highly durable
- Cost-effective
Disadvantages
- More visible
- Will need to adjust diet to avoid damaging brackets and wires
- Will need extra time with oral care routine to brush and floss around brackets and wires
Average treatment length
12-36 months, depending on the complexity of the case
Clear aligners
Advantages
- Virtually invisible
- More comfortable for the cheeks and lips
- Removable
Disadvantages
- May not be able to correct the most severe cases
- More difficult cases may need larger attachments and brackets, which can make them more visible
- Because they are removable, they require a higher degree of patient compliance
Average treatment length
12-36 months, but may not be ideal for all patients, and treatment length could be longer depending on patient compliance
Orthodontic treatment timelines vary for several reasons, not just the treatment option you might choose. Reasons include:
- Severity of the issue. Some malocclusions require more time to correct. If you have a jaw issue or require bite correction, your treatment will take longer than a patient who only has a minor crowding issue, for instance.
- How your body reacts to treatment. Prior to starting treatment, your orthodontist doesn’t know how your individual body will react to the treatment. Some smiles are just a bit slower to react to the treatment, which will naturally extend your treatment time.
- Your age at treatment. Children often see quick results because their smiles are still developing. The orthodontist can guide the growth easier, allowing for more efficient treatment. Adults may require additional treatments to achieve their desired results.
- Your compliance. No matter what option you choose, there will be things you’ll need to do in order to keep your treatment on track. For those in metal braces that will mean establishing a good oral hygiene routine and avoiding foods that can possibly damage your brackets and wires. For those using clear aligners, that will mean wearing the aligners as directed and only switching to a new set when it’s time.
Your path to a straighter smile all begins with a complimentary consultation at Gire Orthodontics. We can help you discover which treatment option will be the best to meet your smile goals as efficiently as possible. Call us today at 562-690-1199 (La Habra) or 909-393-9911 (Chino Hills).