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Looking to get your crooked teeth fixed? The recent advancements in the orthodontics field have made it easier for people to attain the perfect smile with a wide range of solutions available. Amongst all, two of them stand out the most which include braces kits and clear aligner kits. But which one should you go for?
In this blog, we will uncover the unique differences between braces kit and clear aligners kit to help you make an informed decision for your teeth straightening journey. Let’s dig in!
What is a Braces Kit
A “braces kit” generally includes everything you need to correct the dental misalignment issues. This includes metal brackets, wires, and cleaning tools like special interdental brushes, electric tooth brush, e.t.c.
What is an Aligners Kit
Clear aligners such as those offered by Smilepath have emerged as popular alternative to traditional braces for teeth alignment therapy. Following the same trajectory, aligner kits include expert-made aligners that can either be used as at-home orthodontic solutions or require the assistance of an expert dentist with regular check-ups.
Difference Between Braces Kit and Aligners Kit
Aesthetic
One of the critical factors in choosing a clear aligners kit or braces kit solution is perceived visual aesthetics.
Due to their clear aesthetics, aligner kits are an ideal choice for teens, adults, and professionals who value discreet ways to straighten teeth.
On the other hand braces kits are extremely noticeable. The most common variety include metal braces kit which are crafted from metal wire and brackets. Ceramic braces kit, in comparison, offer improved aesthetics since the brackets are matched to your teeth color.
Comfort
Orthodontic processes usually result in some initial discomfort for patients since they align teeth by applying subtle pressure.
An align er kit includes invisible aligners crafted from smooth (BPA-free) plastic that is tailored according to your teeth impression. They don’t irritate your mouth or gums. You will still experience slight discomfort as your teeth move (switching aligner sets).
In the case of braces kit, there is noticeable discomfort even during adjustment. Wires or brackets can rub or poke against your lips or cheeks. This might lead to irritation, small cuts, or soreness.
Effectiveness
Both clear aligners kit and braces kit can efficiently align crooked teeth, but they might be different for every orthodontic case or situation.
Clear aligners included in an Aligner kit are an excellent option for mild to moderate orthodontic cases involving teeth crowding, gaps, or misalignment. They can fix most common teeth alignment issues but are not as effective for complicated alignment cases.
Braces included in braces kits are known to be the go to solution for all kinds of severe orthodontic cases. Whether it’s serious crowding, crossbites, underbites, or misalignment, braces can fix them all.
Treatment Time
The treatment duration can vary significantly based on the complexity of your teeth's alignment needs. The minimum treatment duration with adopting an Aligner kit is approximately 4 to 12 months, based on the severity of the alignment needs. For mild to moderate teeth alignment needs, aligners deliver faster results than braces.
The average treatment time with braces kit ranges from 18 to 24 months, depending upon your case complexity. As braces are fixed and you cannot remove hem, the treatment process remains consistent.
Oral Hygiene and Maintenance
Maintaining ideal oral hygiene is critical for patients undergoing teeth alignment therapy. Aligners are much more easy to maintain since they offer convenience. You can easily remove your aligners for flossing or brushing your teeth, enabling you to maintain perfect oral hygiene without the need for special tools.
Braces kit, on the other hand, can be quite difficult to maintain and clean because food particles can get stuck between wires and brackets. You will need special cleaning tools like interdental brushes and floss threaders to effectively clean your braces.
Cost
Orthodontic patients might need to consider the cost of their teeth alignment process. Aligners kits are often considered slightly more expensive than metal braces kit. However with recent advancements they have become very competitive and inexpensive.
Invisible braces kit prices can range from RM 4,900 to RM 29,000 or more. At-home aligner kit solutions, such as those offered by Smilepath, are cheaper than in-office options.
Previously, braces kits were considered a more affordable option than invisible aligners. Traditional braces typically cost anywhere from RM 8,000 to RM 25,000 or more, depending on the severity of the case and type.
Dental Visits
One other important aspect is how often you need to visit your dentist or orthodontist for checkups or adjustments.
With a clear aligner kit, you don’t need regular dental visits. Many patients only need to see a dentist every 4 to 8 weeks just for progress monitoring and to pick up new trays. Some at-home aligners companies like Smilepath even offer remote monitoring.
Using a braces kit, you will need frequent dental visits, usually every 4 to 8 weeks, for regular braces adjustment. These visits allow your dentist to tighten the braces wires and replace any damaged parts.
Which Orthodontic Solution Is Ideal for You?
The final decision regarding teeth alignment therapy through an aligner kit or braces kit comes down to your unique lifestyle and personal preferences. If you have complex dental alignment needs and need more delicate control over teeth movement, then choose a braces kit.
On the other hand, if you suffer from mild to moderate teeth alignment issues and want oral hygiene, convenience, and discreet treatment, then a clear aligner kit is an ideal choice.
FAQs
What are Aligner Kits?
Aligner kits are a popular teeth straightening alternative solution to traditional metal braces. An aligner kit consists of a set of aligner trays, retainers, storage box, pull tool, chewies and a cleaning solution.
What are Braces Kit?
A braces kit is your go-to solution for all kinds of orthodontic cases. A braces kit or package usually consists of braces, brackets, wires, and cleaning tools like an interdental brush or water floss.
Are Aligner Kit solutions more costly than braces kits?
Aligner treatment depends on the severity of misaligned teeth and dentist recommendations.