Posted on June 11, 2025
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, you’ve probably wondered about aligners vs braces. Both treatments can create a healthy, confident smile, but they work in different ways.
At Lustig & Young Orthodontics, with offices in Fort Worth, Saginaw, Haslet, and Azle, TX, we help patients of all ages understand their options and choose the treatment that fits their goals and lifestyle.
Let’s look at how aligners vs braces compare — what makes them different, how they work, and which might be best for you.
Clear aligners are custom-made trays that gradually move your teeth into place. You’ll wear them for most of the day, about 20 to 22 hours, and switch to a new set every week or two as your teeth shift.
Aligners are nearly invisible, which makes them popular with teens and adults who prefer a more discreet option. They’re smooth, removable, and designed for comfort and convenience.
Braces use small brackets that are attached to your teeth and connected by a thin wire. The wire is adjusted periodically by your orthodontist to guide your teeth into alignment.
Braces have been used for decades because they’re reliable and precise. Today’s braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever, and you can even choose clear or tooth-colored options for a subtler look.
Here’s how aligners vs braces measure up in several important areas.
Aligners are clear and almost unnoticeable, which makes them appealing for anyone who prefers a low-profile treatment.
Braces are more visible, especially metal ones, but clear or ceramic braces blend better with your natural teeth.
Verdict: Aligners are the more discreet option, while braces offer more variety in style.
Aligners are made from smooth plastic, so they don’t irritate your lips or cheeks. There are no wires or brackets to cause soreness.
Braces can take a little time to adjust to, but most patients get comfortable quickly.
Verdict: Aligners typically feel smoother, but both options become easy to manage with time.
Both aligners and braces are effective, but some cases are better suited for one or the other.
Braces are ideal for more complex orthodontic problems, such as severe crowding, large gaps, or bite issues.
Aligners work best for mild to moderate corrections.
Verdict: Braces are better for complex cases. Aligners work well for simpler adjustments.
Aligners can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, so you won’t have to give up your favorite foods. Keeping your teeth clean is also easier.
Braces stay on all the time, which means no lost trays or reminders to wear them, but you’ll need to avoid sticky or hard foods and spend more time cleaning around the brackets.
Verdict: Aligners offer flexibility. Braces require less day-to-day responsibility.
Treatment length depends on your case. Both aligners and braces can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Braces may move teeth slightly faster in more complex situations, while aligners can be just as efficient if worn consistently.
Verdict: It’s a tie. Success depends on your specific needs and how closely you follow your treatment plan.
The cost of aligners vs braces is often similar, depending on the complexity of treatment and your insurance coverage.
At Lustig & Young Orthodontics, we make treatment affordable with flexible payment options and customized plans that fit your budget.
Verdict: Comparable in cost. The right choice comes down to your goals and preferences.
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:
Choose Aligners If:
Choose Braces If:
Still unsure which is best for you? That’s where we come in. At Lustig & Young Orthodontics, we’ll review your smile, answer your questions, and help you choose the option that fits your lifestyle.
Our team has years of experience providing aligners and braces for patients throughout Fort Worth, Saginaw, Haslet, and Azle. We use advanced technology to plan your treatment precisely and make the process as comfortable as possible.
We also believe in making orthodontic care accessible. With customized payment plans and guidance on maximizing insurance benefits, we’ll help you start treatment with confidence.
Whether you’re a teen, an adult, or a parent researching options for your child, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Still deciding between aligners vs braces? Schedule a free consultation with Lustig & Young Orthodontics today. Our friendly team will evaluate your smile, explain your options, and help you find the right treatment for your goals, budget, and schedule. Your perfect smile starts with one simple visit.
