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Braces vs. Clear Aligners: WHICH IS BEST?

more than smiles

Sherman & Balhoff Orthodontics
May 7, 2019

“The question at the top of the list is often which type of appliance to use to correct their orthodontic problem – braces vs clear aligners? How do they decide?”

People who are considering orthodontic treatment usually come prepared with great questions when they arrive for a consultation. The question at the top of the list is often which type of appliance to use to correct their orthodontic problem – braces vs clear aligners? How do they decide?

First, keep in mind that there is not a single “right way” for orthodontic treatment to be done. An accurate diagnosis is the starting place, and that’s something that orthodontists are especially well-trained at, after obtaining orthodontic records (x-rays, photos and models). The orthodontist pinpoints the problem, and then crafts a customized correction.

One appliance is not inherently better than another. What is used for an individual’s correction will be based on the goals of treatment, and the patient’s lifestyle needs. Some things, however, apply to all patients, regardless of type of appliance. For example, all patients must brush and floss their teeth daily and will need to wear retainers post-treatment. Now, let’s examine some common treatment factors to consider for both braces and clear aligners.

Braces

Most orthodontic problems can be successfully treated using braces. Braces have been the traditional form of treatment used by orthodontists for decades, but today’s streamlined braces come in a variety of models – stainless steel, tooth-colored ceramic and even gold-colored.

Visibility

While there are more inconspicuous options (tooth colored brackets, braces that go behind the teeth), other elements remain visible (rubber bands, wires or gold colored brackets). You can, however, choose the colors of your rubber bands.

Removability

For a stable and functional result, braces remain affixed to the teeth throughout the course of treatment. On the bright side, you can’t lose them, unless you eat hard and sticky foods.

Comfort

There may be some initial discomfort when braces are placed or adjusted, and brackets and wires can temporarily irritate mouth tissue. Overall, the discomfort is short-lived and easily managed. Once patients become accustomed to their braces, they may even forget they have them on.

Hygiene

Patients will need to keep teeth, gums and braces free of plaque and food debris so bacteria can’t attack tooth enamel or cause inflamed gums. Food debris and plaque must be removed by frequent brushing and flossing.

Diet

Those with braces must steer clear of foods that are hard, sticky, crunchy and chewy to avoid breaking a bracket or popping a wire out of the bracket. Patients should opt for water instead of carbonated drinks, flavored waters, or sports drinks – these can contain acids and sugars, and both are bad for tooth enamel.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are plastic replicas of your teeth. Wearing them puts gentle pressure on the teeth, ever-so-slightly repositioning them. Aligners are one of many technological advancements that have made orthodontic treatment less conspicuous and one of the many appliances orthodontists use to move teeth and align jaws.

Visibility

Aligners are clear, thin, plastic-like trays, making them virtually invisible and allowing an individual to inconspicuously achieve a straight smile. Tooth colored attachments are frequently placed on the teeth to help guide the teeth into place.  Aligners are designed to minimize the appearance of the appliance to better fit any lifestyle.

Removability

Many patients appreciate that aligners are removable. Take them out to eat, to brush and floss, or for short periods for work or social occasions. The key responsibility is wearing them as prescribed. That typically means a minimum of 22 hours a day and in the correct sequence.

Because they are removable, aligners can be easily lost or damaged. They fall out of pockets and purses and may even get wrapped in a napkin and thrown away.

Comfort

While there may be some initial discomfort when a patient switches to a new set of aligners, the discomfort can be easily managed. Removing aligners because they are uncomfortable defeats their purpose. Aligners can’t work unless they are in the mouth.

Hygiene

It is critical to avoid drinking soft drinks, flavored waters or sports drinks of any kind with aligners in. Liquids seep into aligners and if they contain acid, sugar, or both, it can rapidly lead to staining of the teeth and extensive decay. Teeth need to be spotless when aligners are placed in the mouth.

The type of appliance used in orthodontic treatment is far less important than the skill in the hands of the person who is providing the treatment. Rely on the skills of our awesome team, who has the education, experience and expertise to evaluate diagnostic findings, and translate those into a treatment plan that will help you or your child achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

As members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) we are recognized at top specialists in our field. The only doctors who can call themselves “orthodontists” have graduated from dental school and then successfully completed the additional two-to-three years of education in an accredited orthodontic residency program.

When you choose our team, you can be assured that you have selected a specialist orthodontist, an expert in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics who possesses the skills and experience to give you your best smile.


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patient testimonials

Every Smile Tells a Story

We love it when our patients smile, and we love it even more when want they want to tell the world! Check out what our patients have to say about their 5-star experience with us.
Jennifer T.
We love all the doctors and staff here. Experienced and friendly staff. They are always accommodating also.
Kaitlyn M.
After my 13 year old retainer snapped in half, I needed a quick solution. However, my original orthodontist retired which caused a huge problem. Who was going to fix it? I called around my hometown… no one would take outside patients. My sweet dentist did his best to glue the retainer back on temporarily, but considering this wasn’t his specialty, he failed to do it properly. My wire was now one wrong move away from slicing my lip open. As a last resort, I called Sherman and Balhoff panicking that no one would fix my retainer, and explained it was causing me pain. They booked me for the next day. Not even 24 hrs after giving them the call, my retainer was fixed. Shoutout to Roxanne who fixed it perfectly and made sure my bite wasn’t off and nothing was sticking me. This team is truly amazing. I would’ve still been panicking had it not been for them. 10/10 all around!!
darrione C.
I brought my daughter here for a consult for braces; he definitely earned our trust as a patient. He’s trustworthy, caring, and a man of God. He shows so much compassion, even for my son, who wasn’t there to see him. I am very pleased and definitely recommend this orthodontist.May God continue to bless your business! Dr.Balhoff thank you!
Heather E.
Ashley Mannino has been a huge help to our family throughout the years!!! Blessed to have her!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Heather! We're thrilled to hear that Ashley has made such a positive impact on your family. Your support means a lot to us!
Kaitlyn S.
My son just got his braces at the Prairieville location. Very friendly staff, Rachel did a great job explaining the financial aspects of the treatment. Roxanne and Dr. Sherman did a great job at making him feel comfortable while getting his braces put on. Thank you.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Kaitlyn! We're thrilled to hear that your son felt comfortable during his treatment. Our team is dedicated to providing excellent care and support. We appreciate your trust in us!
Adelyn F.
When I came in for my consultation, I was greeted by Ashley! She was super sweet and already had all of my info up and ready! I was checked in within a minute! Absolutely amazing!!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Adelyn! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with Ashley. Our team strives to provide efficient and friendly service, and your feedback is greatly appreciated. Looking forward to seeing you again!
Michelle C.
Sherman & Balhoff Orthodontics has taken care of our family for years! There is no other orthodontic team that I would recommend! The staff is so friendly, especially Ashley M at the front desk. She always has a smile on her face.!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Michelle! We're thrilled to have cared for your family over the years. Ashley and the entire team appreciate your kind words and look forward to continuing to serve you!
Dillon D.
We’ve had such a great experience here with my daughters braces! The whole team is amazing, and they’ve made the process so smooth and stress-free. Taylor Davis has been especially wonderful, she’s so kind and patient, and always puts my child at ease. You can tell she really cares. Highly recommend this office for any parent looking for quality orthodontic care!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our team, especially Taylor. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to continuing to support your daughter's orthodontic journey!
Baelyn T.
Love this place! Everyone is super friendly and makes you feel right at home. Taylor Davis is the absolute best, she’s so sweet and always makes sure you’re comfortable. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear you felt at home with us. Taylor truly embodies our commitment to comfort and care. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Brinleigh M.
Amazing experience every time I visit! The whole team is professional and friendly, and the care is top-notch. Special shoutout to Taylor Davis, she’s the best! So kind, patient, and always makes me feel comfortable. Highly recommend this office!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experiences with our team, especially Taylor. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Jessica D.
I can’t say enough good things about this orthodontist office! From the moment you walk in, the entire team makes you feel welcomed and cared for. The environment is clean, professional, and genuinely friendly.

I have to give a special shoutout to Taylor Davis, she is truly AMAZING. Taylor is kind, gentle, and incredibly knowledgeable. She goes out of her way to make sure you’re comfortable and fully understand what’s happening during every visit. Her positive energy and warm personality always put me at ease, and I can tell she genuinely cares about her patients.

The whole office works like a well-oiled machine, and the results speak for themselves. I’m beyond happy with my treatment, and I recommend them to anyone looking for top-notch orthodontic care. If you get the chance to have Taylor as your assistant, you’re in the best hands!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Jessica! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience and appreciate your kind words about Taylor and our team. Your satisfaction is our top priority!
Alicia C.
My daughter just got braces at Sherman and Balhoff Prairieville's office. We are very pleased with the way the entire process. The staff are excellent! Very friendly, caring, and professional. They took great care of us by explaining every part of the process, and that put all our concerns to rest. I will always highly recommend Sherman and Balhoff. They're the best!!!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that you and your daughter had a positive experience with our team. Your recommendations mean a lot to us. We look forward to seeing you again!
MDU U.
From the very first time you walk though the door, it is a wonderful experience. The staff are all friendly, kind and knowledgeable. We have a wonderful experience every time and cannot recommend this practice highly enough.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind review. Having wonderful people like you in our office makes our days spectacular!
Carly D.
After having my braces off for only 7 months from a previous orthodontist, I switched to S&B after not being happy with my results and incomplete treatment. One of the best decisions I've made. Great with time management, quick and easy appointments, friendly staff. Definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your positive experience, Carly! We're thrilled to hear that switching to Sherman & Balhoff Orthodontics has made such a difference for you. Our team is dedicated to providing efficient and friendly service, and your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to continuing to support your orthodontic journey!
Allison K.
They are amazing with everyone. My daughter just had braces put on in May and they have been wonderful with questions, etc.
Response from the owner:Allison thank you for your kind words about us and our staff. We work diligently day in and day out to provide the best patient experience possible, so it’s wonderful to hear when we meet our goals!

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