How Do I Know If I Need Braces or Clear Aligners?
What Are Braces and Clear Aligners?
Before deciding between braces and clear aligners, it’s helpful to understand what each option does.
Traditional Braces are orthodontic devices made of metal or ceramic brackets attached to your teeth. These brackets are connected by wires that slowly move your teeth into the correct position over time. Braces have been used for many years and can fix even the most complicated tooth problems.
Clear Aligners like SureSmile are transparent plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. You wear a series of these trays, and each one moves your teeth a little bit closer to their ideal position. Clear aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed when you eat or brush your teeth.
How Do I Know If I Need Orthodontic Treatment?
You might need braces or clear aligners if you notice any of these signs:
- Your teeth are crowded or overlapping
- You have large gaps between your teeth
- Your upper teeth stick out too far over your lower teeth (overbite)
- Your lower teeth stick out past your upper teeth (underbite)
- Your jaw makes clicking sounds or feels painful
- You have trouble chewing food properly
- You feel embarrassed about your smile
Our team can evaluate your teeth during a free consultation to determine if orthodontic treatment would help you.
What Problems Can Braces Fix That Clear Aligners Cannot?
Some dental issues are more complex and require the strength and precision of traditional braces. Here’s when braces might be the better choice:
Severe crowding: When your teeth are very tightly packed together, braces can create the space needed and move teeth more effectively than clear aligners.
Large gaps: Braces can close big spaces between teeth more quickly and with better control.
Significant bite problems: If your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly, braces combined with other orthodontic appliances can fix these issues.
Tooth rotation: When teeth are twisted or turned at odd angles, braces have better control to rotate them into place.
Vertical tooth movement: Braces can move teeth up or down in the jawbone, which clear aligners cannot always accomplish.
When Are Clear Aligners the Right Choice?
Clear aligners work wonderfully for many people, especially those with mild to moderate orthodontic problems. Consider clear aligners if:
- You have mild to moderate crowding or spacing issues
- Your bite problems are not too severe
- You want a treatment option that’s nearly invisible
- You prefer removing your orthodontic device while eating
- You play sports or musical instruments
- You’re an adult or teen who wants a more discreet treatment
SureSmile Clear Aligners use advanced 3D technology to create a custom treatment plan just for you.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Quick Comparison
Feature | Traditional Braces | SureSmile Clear Aligners |
Visibility | More noticeable (metal or ceramic) | Nearly invisible |
Removability | Fixed to teeth | Removable for eating and cleaning |
Treatment Time | Varies by case | Often similar to braces |
Comfort | May cause some initial discomfort | Generally comfortable |
Maintenance | Requires special cleaning tools | Easy to clean |
Food Restrictions | Must avoid certain foods | No food restrictions (remove to eat) |
Best For | Complex cases, all ages | Mild to moderate cases, teens and adults |
Office Visits | Regular adjustments needed | Less frequent check-ups |
What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing?
Making the right choice depends on several important factors:
Your specific dental needs: The complexity of your tooth alignment issues is the most important factor. Some problems simply require the strength and versatility of braces.
Your age: Children and young teens often benefit from traditional braces because their teeth and jaws are still growing. Adults who want discreet treatment might prefer clear aligners.
Your lifestyle: If you play contact sports, clear aligners can be removed during games. If you worry about losing things, fixed braces might give you peace of mind.
Your commitment: Clear aligners require discipline because you must wear them 20 to 22 hours per day. If you forget to wear them, your treatment will take longer.
Your budget: Both options have different costs, we offer flexible payment plans to fit your budget.
What Happens During a Consultation?
When you visit the Elmhurst or Downers Grove office for your free consultation, here’s what you can expect:
- A thorough examination of your teeth, jaws, and bite
- Digital 3D scans using advanced technology (no messy impressions needed)
- Discussion about your smile goals and concerns
- A personalized treatment plan recommendation
- Information about treatment timeline and costs
- Answers to all your questions
The expert team will help you understand whether braces, clear aligners, or another treatment option is best for your unique situation.
Can Adults Get Braces or Clear Aligners?
Absolutely! One in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults choose orthodontic treatment because they want to improve their smile and oral health. Whether you never had braces as a child or your teeth shifted after earlier treatment, it’s never too late to get the smile you deserve.
Adults at can choose from several options:
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic braces (less noticeable than metal)
- SureSmile Clear Aligners
- Surgical orthodontics for complex cases
What Other Treatments Does Premier Orthodontics & Dental Specialists Offer?
Beyond braces and clear aligners, the practice provides comprehensive orthodontic care including:
- Early orthodontic treatment for children (starting as young as age 7)
- Orthodontic treatment for teens
- Retainers to maintain your beautiful new smile
- Surgical orthodontics for complex jaw alignment issues
- Two-phase treatment for growing children
- Palatal expanders to create more space
- Sleep apnea treatment
- Emergency orthodontic care
All treatments use state-of-the-art digital 3D technology and low-radiation imaging to ensure the best results.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The length of treatment depends on your specific needs:
Braces: Most people wear braces for 18 to 24 months, though some cases may be shorter or longer.
Clear Aligners: Treatment with SureSmile Clear Aligners typically takes a similar amount of time to braces, depending on the complexity of your case.
During your consultation, you’ll receive a personalized timeline for your treatment. Following all instructions and attending your scheduled appointments will help you finish on time.
Quick Overview: Key Takeaways
Making Your Decision:
- Schedule a free consultation to get a professional evaluation
- Complex cases often need traditional braces for best results
- Mild to moderate problems can usually be treated with clear aligners
- Both options can give you a beautiful, healthy smile
What Makes Us Different:
- Board-certified orthodontist with over 20 years of experience
- Advanced digital 3D technology for precise treatment planning
- Flexible payment options to fit any budget
- Two convenient locations in Elmhurst and Downers Grove, IL
- Free consultations with personalized treatment plans
Treatment Success Depends On:
- Following your orthodontist’s instructions carefully
- Attending all scheduled appointments
- Maintaining good oral hygiene throughout treatment
- Wearing retainers after treatment to keep your smile perfect
Ready to Get Your Best Smile?
Stop wondering whether you need braces or clear aligners! The friendly team at Premier Orthodontics & Dental Specialists is ready to help you discover which treatment option will give you the healthy, confident smile you’ve always wanted. With advanced technology, flexible payment plans, and expert care from a board-certified orthodontist, your smile transformation is closer than you think.
Take the first step today! Schedule your FREE consultation at either the Elmhurst or Downers Grove location. Your dream smile is waiting, and the team can’t wait to meet you and create your personalized treatment plan. Don’t wait another day to invest in yourself and your smile!