Choosing Between Braces and Clear Aligners
When starting orthodontic treatment, many patients ask a common question: Which is faster—braces or clear aligners? While both treatment options are designed to move teeth into proper alignment, the speed of results can vary based on multiple factors, including the complexity of your case, your age, and how well you follow your treatment plan.
Understanding the pros and limitations of each option can help you make the right decision for your smile goals, lifestyle, and timeline.
Average Treatment Times: Braces vs. Clear Aligners
There’s no one‑size‑fits‑all timeline, but here’s a general comparison:
- Braces — Most treatments last between 18–24 months, though some mild cases can be completed in as little as 12 months.
- Clear Aligners — For mild to moderate cases, clear aligner treatment may take 6–18 months, depending on how complex your needs are.
While clear aligners may sound like the faster option, speed depends on how consistently you wear them—and what specific tooth movements are required. In some cases, braces may actually produce faster or more precise results, especially for more complex adjustments.
Factors That Affect Treatment Speed
Case Complexity
Braces often work faster than aligners for complex cases involving:
- Significant crowding
- Large bite corrections (overbite, underbite)
- Tooth rotation or vertical movement
- Impacted teeth
Patient Compliance
One of the biggest benefits of clear aligners is that they’re removable—but that’s also one of the biggest challenges. For best results, aligners need to be worn 20–22 hours per day. Forgetting to wear them or removing them too often can delay your results.
Braces, on the other hand, are fixed. They work 24/7, meaning there’s no risk of forgetting or losing them. That consistency can help move teeth more predictably and sometimes more quickly.
Age and Bone Development
Younger patients often experience faster results because their jaws are still growing and their bone structure is more adaptable. Adults can still achieve great results with either option—but treatment may take slightly longer, particularly for complex movements.
Tooth Movement Goals
Some types of tooth movements—like rotating canines or moving teeth vertically—are easier to accomplish with braces. If your case requires detailed control, your orthodontist may recommend braces to stay on a faster, more reliable timeline.
How to Speed Up Your Orthodontic Treatment
No matter which treatment you choose, you can take steps to stay on track and avoid delays:
- Attend all scheduled appointments — Regular check‑ins allow your orthodontist to adjust your plan and ensure progress is on track.
- Follow care instructions — If using aligners, wear them as directed. If you have braces, follow dietary restrictions to avoid damage.
- Maintain good oral hygiene — Infections or cavities can pause your treatment and extend your timeline.
- Avoid appliance damage — Lost aligners or broken brackets can set you back weeks if not addressed promptly.
- Use acceleration options (if recommended) — Some orthodontists offer vibration or light‑based devices that may help speed up tooth movement. Always ask if it’s appropriate for your case.
Pros and Cons of Faster Treatment
While fast results are appealing, faster doesn’t always mean better. It’s important that tooth movement is gradual and healthy to avoid damaging the roots or gum tissue. Rushing the process can lead to relapse or discomfort.
A faster timeline may be possible, but only if it’s the right clinical decision. The best outcome is one that’s not just quick—but also long‑lasting and stable.
How to Know Which Option Is Right for You
The best way to find out whether braces or clear aligners will be faster for your unique case is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced orthodontist. They’ll assess:
- Your bite
- The alignment of your teeth
- The goals of your treatment
- Your lifestyle preferences
- Your commitment to follow‑through
From there, they can recommend the most efficient option based on your needs—not just what sounds quicker on paper.
Braces vs. Aligners — Which Wins for Speed?
Here’s a quick summary to help compare:
- Braces may be faster for complex cases or patients who need precise control and structure.
- Clear aligners may be faster for mild cases, especially when worn exactly as instructed.
- Braces are better for non‑compliant patients (especially kids and teens who may forget aligners).
- Aligners are ideal for adults who want a discreet, flexible solution and are committed to wearing them full time.
Each option has its strengths—and speed is only one part of the equation.
Start Your Smile Journey with Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics
At Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics, we help patients in Ogden and beyond choose the most effective path to a better smile. Whether you're leaning toward traditional braces or exploring clear aligners, our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the process—with your goals, timeline, and comfort in mind.
Schedule your free consultation today to find out which treatment will deliver your dream smile—on time and with confidence.