Clear Braces vs. Traditional Braces: Which Is Right for You?

A straight smile isn’t just about aesthetics—it can improve your bite, boost your confidence, and make oral hygiene easier. But when it comes to orthodontic treatment, many patients ask:

Should I go with clear braces or traditional metal braces?

At Sunset Family Dentistry in Clearwater, FL, we offer both options and help patients make the right decision based on their lifestyle, goals, and smile needs. Here’s what you need to know to choose confidently.

What Are Clear Braces?

Clear braces are a modern, discreet alternative to traditional braces. Instead of brackets and wires, clear braces use a series of custom-made, removable plastic aligners to gently shift your teeth over time.

You’ve probably heard of Invisalign, but that’s just one brand—kind of like how people say “Band-Aid” for any adhesive bandage. At our office, we typically use Dandy for our clear aligner treatments, and occasionally Invisalign when needed, depending on the case. Both are trusted, high-quality options that deliver excellent results.

What Are Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets attached to your teeth, connected by wires and rubber bands that your dentist adjusts over time. They’ve been around for decades, and for good reason—they’re highly effective at treating both simple and complex alignment issues.

Clear Braces vs. Braces: What’s the Difference?

Feature	Clear Braces (Aligners)	Traditional Braces
Appearance	Nearly invisible	Metal or ceramic brackets
Comfort	Smooth, no wires	May cause irritation
Removability	Removable for eating & cleaning	Fixed until treatment is complete
Food Restrictions	None—you remove to eat	Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods
Oral Hygiene	Easy to brush & floss normally	More difficult to clean around
Best for	Mild to moderate misalignment	All types of misalignment
Office Visits	Every 6–8 weeks	Every 4–6 weeks
Duration (on average)	6–18 months	18–24 months

When Clear Braces Might Be Right for You

You might be a good candidate for clear braces if:

• You prefer a discreet, removable option

• You have mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or bite issues

• You’re committed to wearing your aligners 20–22 hours a day

• You want to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions

They’re especially popular with adults and teens who want a straighter smile without the look or feel of metal brackets.

When Traditional Braces Might Be the Better Fit

Braces might be your best bet if:

• You have significant bite correction or complex alignment issues

• You prefer a set-it-and-forget-it solution

• You’re treating a younger child or teen who may not keep track of aligners

• You want the most time-tested orthodontic option available

What About Cost?

Both clear braces and traditional braces are investments in your long-term health and confidence. Treatment cost depends on your case complexity and duration, but we offer flexible payment plans and transparent pricing.

Right now, we’re offering $500 off clear aligner treatment, which includes your custom digital scan, treatment planning, and all follow-up visits.

How to Get Started

At Sunset Family Dentistry, we’ll help you decide which option is best for you. Whether it’s clear braces with Dandy or Invisalign, or traditional braces through a specialist referral, we’ll create a personalized plan that fits your smile goals.

Our Clearwater office offers comprehensive dental care under one roof—including general, restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic services for the whole family.

Ready to explore your options?

Call us to schedule a free clear braces consultation today.

Let’s make your dream smile a reality—comfortably, affordably, and on your terms.

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