At Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics, we're proud to offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment to the communities of Deerfield, Arlington Heights, and the surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of orthodontic treatment options, and each method comes with its own advantages and drawbacks. But there's one question we get frequently from patients regarding their different options: what's the difference between braces and ClearCorrect? To shed some light on the subject, we'd like to dive into what separates braces from ClearCorrect, and what that means for your orthodontic treatment.
Braces & Clear Aligners: A Difference of Form
Fundamentally, both traditional braces and ClearCorrect do the same thing in that they apply finely-calibrated forces to the teeth, gradually causing them to shift to new positions over time. The difference is in the tools and materials each treatment uses to apply these forces.
Braces use a series of metal brackets (or clear ceramic brackets, in the case of clear braces) cemented to the front of the teeth and a thin, springy archwire running through the brackets to move teeth. The archwire clips into the brackets, and it's what does the heavy lifting of tooth movement: the natural spring force of the metal applies pressure to the teeth, via the brackets, that causes them to realign.
ClearCorrect does away with brackets and wires, instead using a series of clear plastic trays, called aligners, to straighten the teeth. ClearCorrect aligners fit directly onto the dental arch, and they're custom shaped to apply specific forces that bring the teeth into a proper arch alignment. ClearCorrect aligners are made in a sequence, and each pair is worn for about 2 weeks before switching to the next. With each new set, your teeth move closer and closer to their final positions.
Schedule a Consultation with Your Deerfield, IL Orthodontist
But what about the ultimate question: which treatment is better? The truth is, both have distinct pros and cons – and the only way to find out which treatment is right for you is to come in for a consultation at our Deerfield or Arlington Heights, IL orthodontic office. Ready to get started? Simply reach out to us or use our easy online form to request a consultation and learn more about treatment. We can't wait to hear from you, and we're excited to help you achieve a new smile no matter which treatment you choose!