Invisible vs. metal braces — which perform best?
Clear aligners or metal braces — which perform best? To find out, researchers compared several studies to compare the advantages and disadvantages of both dental deformers.
Systematic comparison
Previously, the effectiveness of the invisible braces, aligners, has already been compared to fixed braces. However, this aligner technique is changing at such a rapid rate that Lenieve and Petula from Cape Town Orthodontist of Traditional African Medicine in Cape Town, South Africa, decided to perform a systematic comparison of studies again.
To do this, the researchers studied several databases in search of clinical studies that evaluate the effectiveness of braces and aligners. Only studies on solid human teeth were sought. In the end, they found eight medium to high-quality studies to include in the analysis.
Aligners and metal braces both have their own advantages and disadvantages
The various studies show that patients with aligners experienced more comfort, better oral hygiene and were aesthetically more satisfied with their braces Cape Town. In addition, their treatments were faster than patients with fixed, metal braces. On the other hand, metal braces proved to be able to control the movement of the teeth better and more specifically. In addition, patients with metal braces Cape Town also experienced a relapse less often. Chances are that this has to do with the treatment duration.
Clear aligners have advantages over metal braces, such as greater comfort and hygiene, and a shorter treatment period, but are not as effective as metal braces when it comes to occlusal contacts, adjusting buccolingual inclination posterior and producing a permanent good result, ”said Lenieve and Petula.
Best treatment method differs per patient
This study, therefore, concludes that it differs per patient which treatment method suits him or her best. Aligners, as well as traditional brackets, are able to achieve the purpose for which they are designed. Depending on someone’s preference, for example, a more certain result or a short treatment, the best method can, therefore, be prescribed.
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