When it comes to straightening your smile, there are more options than ever. But the real question is: clear aligners or braces? Which one makes the most sense for you or your child? At Thomas Orthodontics, serving families in Salem and Spanish Fork, Dr. James Thomas offers tailored treatments for every age and lifestyle. From custom clear aligners to metal and clear braces, our goal is simple: deliver confident, healthy smiles through expert care.
We’ll walk through your options, so you can make an informed choice that fits your needs.
Empower Braces: Durable & Always Working
- Reliable Results: Ideal for complex cases and bite corrections.
- No User Error: Always on, so they’re always working.
- Great for Kids and Teens: Especially helpful for patients who may forget or misplace trays.
- Custom Look: Choose between mini metal or clear ceramic brackets.
Braces are especially valuable for younger patients and those needing significant movement, without the responsibility of managing removable trays.
In-House Clear Aligners: Subtle & Flexible
Clear aligners are a powerful alternative to braces, offering precise digital planning and discreet treatment. Busy adults tend to favor this option.
- Removable Trays: Eat, brush, and floss with ease.
- Nearly Invisible: Great for adults and image-conscious teens.
- Comfortable Fit: Smooth plastic, no brackets or poking wires.
- Fewer Appointments: Streamlined check-ins for busy schedules.
Clear aligners require a bit more discipline (20–22 hours of daily wear), but the convenience and appearance often make them worth it.
Questions and Answers
1. Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
Clear aligners can effectively treat many mild to moderate issues, such as crowding, gaps, and some bite problems. However, braces are often better for complex cases involving severe misalignment, jaw corrections, or rotated teeth. Aligners must be worn 20–22 hours daily to work properly, while braces apply constant pressure without relying on patient compliance. If you’re disciplined, aligners can provide excellent results. Your orthodontist will help determine which option fits your specific needs.
2. Which treatment is better for my lifestyle: braces or clear aligners?
Lifestyle can guide your choice. Aligners are discreet, removable, and let you eat without restrictions, making them ideal if you want flexibility. Braces, though visible, require fewer daily decisions and can’t be misplaced. If you’re highly responsible and prefer an invisible option, aligners may suit you. If you’d rather not worry about remembering to wear trays, braces might be the better choice.
3. Do clear aligners or braces work faster?
Treatment speed depends more on your case than the appliance. For mild problems, aligners may finish in a similar or slightly shorter time than braces. Braces, however, are often more efficient for complex cases since they work continuously without relying on wear time. The biggest factor is following your doctor’s instructions, whether that’s wearing aligners as directed, keeping up with adjustments for braces, or managing your retainer during retention.
4. Which option is better for teens and kids?
For younger patients, braces are usually the top choice since they don’t rely on compliance and can handle complex growth and alignment needs. Aligners can be great for responsible teens who want a more comfortable and discreet option, especially with wear indicators to track use. For children still developing, braces are often part of a two-phase treatment to guide jaw and tooth growth. Teens, however, may have a choice between braces and aligners depending on their habits and dental needs.
Meet Dr. James Thomas
With a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering and board certification in orthodontics, Dr. Thomas brings a blend of science, precision, and compassion to every patient. He completed his orthodontic residency at the University of Colorado and is certified in dental lasers through the Academy of Laser Dentistry, reflecting his commitment to advanced care. His professional accolades include multiple awards for research and clinical excellence, as well as active membership in top dental and orthodontic associations.
Still Debating? Let Us Help You Decide
When it comes to choosing between clear aligners or braces, there’s no single answer for everyone. At Thomas Orthodontics, we believe the right call depends on you:
- Your goals
- Your lifestyle
- Your age
Schedule a free consultation in Spanish Fork or Salem, and let our doctors guide you to the right fit.
Your perfect smile is just a few decisions away. Clear aligners or braces, we’ll make it happen together.