A Parent s Guide To Braces And Clear Aligners

Discover essential tips for choosing between braces and clear aligners with Forster Orthodontics. Serving Newport, Tiverton, & Portsmouth, RI.

One of the questions we get asked the most from parents and patients is: “which is better: Braces or Clear Aligners?" It’s a hard question to answer because so much depends on each patient and their specific needs. That’s why at Forster Orthodontics we prioritize spending time with you and listening to your needs and goals. That’s what helps us land on the best possible treatment plan for each unique patient who comes to see us for orthodontics. Let’s talk about some of the different treatment options that we offer at Forster Orthodontics and the differences between them.

Traditional metal or clear braces are the most commonly recognized and can be a great choice. There’s minimal involvement from the patient’s perspective except for avoiding foods that can damage brackets and wires, and brushing really well is a top priority. Braces are also great for patients who simply aren’t going to wear aligners for 22 hours a day. And that’s okay! You’ll come to me every 6-8 weeks for adjustments and we’ll be on our way to a straighter smile in no time.

On the other hand, clear aligners are an excellent alternative for patients that are good at keeping to a schedule and the list of foods to avoid while in treatment is much smaller. They’re also a great choice if you know brushing is already an issue - which makes braces more challenging. It’s harder to reach those nooks and crannies when the brackets and wires are in place.

If Dr. Forster feels that one would be a better option for any reason, we’ll let you know why and we’ll talk through everything in detail together. In most cases both treatment options are efficient and effective at giving your child their ideal smile, and making parents smile along the way. 

Click below to schedule a complimentary consultation with us. We can’t wait to meet you! 

 

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