Aligners vs braces: How are they different?

While there are obvious and not-so-obvious differences between clear aligners and traditional braces, they do share a common goal. Both can perfect your smile by straightening your teeth. At Aspen Dental, we believe Motto® clear aligners offer some advantages that braces clearly do not.

7 reasons we like clear aligners more than braces

1. Clear aligner treatment typically takes less time to complete

The average Motto® treatment time is, on average, 6 months¹, whereas traditional braces can take anywhere from 18 months on up to 2 years. Just think about how many selfies, date nights and job interviews there can be in that amount of time.

2. Aligners are more convenient

Braces typically require frequent in-office visits for tightening and adjustments following their initial application, also known as bonding. On the other hand, clear aligners provide a series of aligner trays in advance, allowing for continuous progress through multiple phases of teeth movement with 1 - 2 check-in appointments. 
And with Motto®, you have the option of using MottoMonitoring, which lets you save time by checking in with your care team through your smartphone 24/7.

3. Clear aligners don’t change your appearance like braces do

OK, we know you know that clear plastic aligner trays are far less conspicuous than metal and wire. But they’re also less visible than ceramic braces too. So, aligners have a clear aesthetic advantage. Again, the average treatment time for clear aligners is significantly shorter. So, you and your friends will see a lot less of them. 

Oh, and did we mention that Motto® treatment plans include teeth whitening kit at no extra charge?

4. You can experience comfort with aligners

Designed to fit your lifestyle, Motto® aligners are crafted from advanced materials that flex with your teeth’s natural movement. This ensures a comfortable and precise teeth straightening process. Plus, you can remove them when eating or cleaning, making daily life easier while still working towards that perfect smile.

5. You can eat whatever you want without worry

Enjoy movie night popcorn by the fistful without worrying that a husk will get stuck. Gorge on grilled cheese sammies without the gooey bits getting wrapped in wire. With clear aligners, nothing on the menu is off-limits. Just remember to floss.

6. Aligners may cost less than braces

Since braces require several appointments, including the one in which the braces are bonded onto your teeth, the regular adjustments and the removal can get pricey.

Motto® clear aligners leverage Aspen Dental's extensive network of dental experts to offer you four flexible payment options and the ability to use your dental insurance, HSA, or FSA to help cover the cost.

7. Aligners mean easier daily oral hygiene

One of the big advantages of Motto® is that you can still brush every tooth and gum surface and floss between every tooth. Braces make thorough flossing more difficult and time consuming. And brushing every morsel or stain away becomes a lot harder. Over time, this can lead to tooth discoloration, bad breath, plaque buildup and cavities.

“Are aligners better than braces?”

That’s a discussion for you and your Aspen Dental dentist. In some extreme cases, braces may still be the best option. Thanks to Motto®’s advanced technology, we can treat all kinds of bite issues including cross bites, overbites and underbites. We believe the advantages that clear aligners provide are something everyone can sink their teeth into.

^{¹Average patient treatment plan lasts 5.4 months. Results may vary.}

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