The orthodontic world has changed a lot in the last decade. It's no longer just metal brackets and wires — clear aligners have become a genuinely effective alternative for a large share of cases. But they're not a universal replacement, and picking the wrong one can mean a slower, less effective result.
Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate crowding, spacing issues, and minor bite corrections. They're removable, nearly invisible, and don't come with food restrictions the way braces do. The catch is they require discipline — they only work if worn 20-22 hours a day, and skipping that consistently slows progress.
Metal braces remain the more reliable option for complex cases: significant overcrowding, severe bite misalignment, or situations needing more controlled tooth movement than aligners can achieve. They're fixed in place, so there's no temptation to skip wearing them, which for some patients (especially teens) actually makes them more predictable.
During your consultation, Dr. Indrayani will assess your bite, crowding, and goals using X-rays and impressions before recommending either option — not just based on preference, but on what will actually get you the result you want in the most reasonable timeframe.