More and more people are choosing orthodontic treatment using teeth-straightening aligners instead of traditional fixed braces. Choosing this treatment method has its advantages but also limitations that are worth knowing before starting treatment. In the article below, we will present what orthodontic aligners are, when it is worth deciding on them, their differences compared to fixed braces, who can use them, who they are not recommended for, and what their costs are.
What are orthodontic aligners?
Orthodontic aligners, also known as aligners, are transparent, removable dental trays that gradually move the teeth into the desired position. They are made of flexible, biocompatible material that perfectly fits the shape of the teeth. During the treatment process, the patient receives a set of aligners to be changed every 1-2 weeks, allowing for systematic correction of tooth alignment.
When is it worth deciding on orthodontic aligners?
Orthodontic aligners are mainly recommended for people who have mild or moderate bite defects, such as:
- Crooked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite (in some cases)
Thanks to their aesthetics and convenience, the aligners are especially popular among adults and teenagers, who value discretion and the ability to remove them independently at any time, for example during eating or important meetings.
Orthodontic aligners vs fixed braces — differences
| Feature | Orthodontic aligners | Fixed braces |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Transparent, almost invisible | Metal brackets and wires, less aesthetic |
| Wearing comfort | Removable, comfortable, without sharp elements | Fixed, may cause irritation of gums and inner cheeks |
| Treatment time | Usually shorter for mild defects | May be longer for more complicated cases |
| Oral hygiene | Easy to maintain hygiene — removable during eating | Requires special care for the cleanliness of brackets and spaces between wires |
| Cost | Usually higher than fixed braces | Lower compared to orthodontic aligners |
Who is suitable for treatment with aligners, and who should avoid them?
Orthodontic aligners are intended for people who:
- They want to avoid visible braces – aligners are almost transparent, making them discreet.
- They need minor or moderate bite correction – for more complex bite defects, doctors recommend traditional fixed braces.
- They are ready for regular check-ups – the treatment process requires constant monitoring to adjust subsequent aligners.
Orthodontic aligners are not recommended for patients with severe malocclusions, complex bite defects, or for children under 14 years old whose dental growth process is not complete. In such cases, a traditional fixed brace may prove more effective and appropriate.
Advantages and disadvantages of orthodontic aligners
Advantages:
- Aesthetics — the aligners are transparent, making them almost invisible.
- Comfort of wearing — the absence of metal parts makes the aligners more comfortable and prevents gum irritation.
- Ease of maintaining hygiene — the aligners can be removed during eating and brushing, which makes it easier to take care of oral hygiene.
- Fewer orthodontist visits — compared to fixed braces, where check-ups and adjustments are frequent.
- Shorter treatment time — for mild bite defects, treatment with aligners can be shorter than with fixed braces.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost — aligners are usually more expensive than traditional fixed braces.
- Require consistency — they must be worn for at least 22 hours a day, which requires commitment and discipline.
- Not for all bite defects — aligners are mainly effective for mild and moderate defects.
- Need to remove during eating — aligners must be removed before each meal, which can be inconvenient.
Costs of orthodontic aligner treatment
The price of orthodontic aligner treatment depends on the complexity of the defect, the number of aligners, and the location of the clinic. In Poland, these costs usually range between 8,000 and 20,000 PLN for the entire treatment process. However, it is worth remembering that many clinics offer installment payment options, which allow spreading the costs over time.
Summary
Orthodontic aligners are an innovative solution for people who want to enjoy straight teeth in a discreet and comfortable way. Thanks to the transparent material, they are almost invisible, and the ability to remove them makes hygiene easier. However, aligner treatment is not for everyone — it is mainly effective for mild and moderate bite defects.
People with more serious problems may be forced to choose a traditional fixed brace. Aligners are also more expensive than fixed braces and require great consistency, which is worth considering before making a decision. The cost of treatment ranges from 8,000 to 20,000 PLN, but for many patients, the advantages of this method, such as aesthetics and comfort, outweigh the limitations.
