Is Clear Aligner Faster Than Braces?
Clear aligners, like Invisalign®, have become a popular choice for straightening teeth. One of the most common questions patients ask is whether they work faster than traditional braces.
Treatment Time Comparison
- Clear Aligners – For mild to moderate alignment issues, clear aligners can sometimes straighten teeth in as little as
6 to 18 months. Since they focus on specific movements and are custom-made, treatment may be quicker if the case is straightforward.
- Traditional Braces – Braces are effective for both simple and complex cases, but treatment typically lasts 18 to 24 months, and sometimes longer for severe misalignments.
Factors That Affect Speed
- Complexity of the Case – Braces may be necessary for severe crowding, bite corrections, or rotated teeth, which usually take longer to fix.
- Patient Compliance – Aligners only work if worn
20–22 hours a day. Skipping wear time can delay progress.
- Treatment Goals – Cosmetic fixes may be faster, while comprehensive bite correction takes more time.
Overall, clear aligners can be faster than braces in simpler cases, but both options are highly effective depending on your dental needs.
Want a straighter smile?
At Alpine Dental, we provide both clear aligners and braces, offering personalized dental treatment plans in Lakewood, NJ, to fit your smile goals.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
SOURCES:
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-orthodontics/clear-aligners-or-metal-braces-heres-how-to-choose
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8887409/
https://www.reddit.com/r/orthodontics/comments/1gxy0kf/my_orthodontist_says_invisalignaligners_have/
https://www.quora.com/What-is-faster-braces-or-Invisalign
https://www.invisalign.in/
