Both can move teeth, but they are not lived with in the same way. Compare them, then prepare the question that matters: which one suits your mouth?
Published by Dr Hafça Moqadem, Dental surgeon in Marrakech2 min read · Interactive article
Fixed braces consist of brackets, metal or ceramic, linked by a wire that is adjusted at check-ups. Aligners are a series of clear trays, changed at the pace indicated.
Both move the teeth gradually. What differs is the place they take in your daily life, the hygiene they require and the situations they can treat.
A short guide
Three questions to prepare the discussion with the orthodontist. Nothing is sent.
Answer the questions to see the points to discuss with the dentist.
They come out for eating and brushing, but they only work if worn for most of the day. The examination first checks that your situation is suitable.
The clear aligners pageThey stay in place throughout the treatment and can treat situations that aligners do not cover. They call for extra care with hygiene and regular check-ups.
The fixed braces pagePhotos, impressions and X-rays make it possible to define the treatment plan. Both options are then compared for your case.
The orthodontics pageThis guide helps you prepare the discussion. Only an examination can tell what suits your mouth.
Compare
Three devices, three roles. Tick the ones you want to compare.
| Item | Fixed braces | Clear aligners | Retainer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Principle | Brackets attached to the teeth and linked by a wire, adjusted at check-ups. | A series of clear, removable trays, changed at the pace indicated. | A device that holds the teeth in their new position. |
| Day to day | Stays in place all the time; the areas around the brackets need careful cleaning. | Taken out to eat and to brush the teeth, then put back; long daily wear is essential. | Worn as instructed by the orthodontist. |
| Situations | Including more complex situations. | Suitability is checked before starting; not right for every case. | At the end of any treatment, whichever appliance was used. |
| Check-ups | Regular appointments for adjustments. | Appointments to check that the teeth are following the plan. | Follow-up agreed with the practitioner. |
The same comparison as a chart (general guides, to be confirmed at the examination)
Qualitative scale: Low · Moderate · High · Very high. These are not measurements: every clinical situation is different.
Step by step
Photos, impressions and X-rays make it possible to assess your situation and check which appliance is suitable.
The tooth movements are planned. With aligners, the series of trays is then made; with fixed braces, the brackets are fitted.
Fixed braces: the wires are changed or adjusted at check-ups. Aligners: you change tray at the pace indicated.
The appointments check that the teeth are following the planned course.
Once the appliance is removed, a retainer holds the teeth in their new position. The practitioner decides how long it is needed.
Common myths
Some situations are better treated with fixed braces. The examination guides you.
The teeth do not follow the planned course, and the treatment is prolonged or has to be corrected.
Age is not an obstacle in itself: straightening teeth remains possible in adulthood when the gums and bone are healthy.
Without a retainer, teeth can move again. The retainer is part of the treatment.
To tick
General NHS guidance, to be adapted with your orthodontist. Your choices stay on this page: they are neither saved nor sent.
To tick
No. They are taken out to eat and to drink anything other than water, then you brush your teeth before putting them back.
Some discomfort is common for a few days after fitting and adjustments, then it fades. If the pain lasts, contact the clinic.
The length depends on your situation and the plan set after the assessment. It is explained to you at the clinic; no length of time can be promised in advance.
The clinic does not publish fees online. A written quote is given after the examination, before any decision.
Call the clinic, write to us on WhatsApp, or choose a day and a time yourself: your request reaches the clinic's WhatsApp and they will confirm the appointment.
2nd floor, No. 180 Madani Plaza, Boulevard Abdelkrim Al Khattabi, Guéliz, Marrakech
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