Orthodontic Options for Patients in Scottsdale and North Scottsdale

Thinking about straightening your teeth but unsure which option is best? Many of our patients want to know the differences between braces vs. clear aligners. At Elevation Dental Group in North Scottsdale, this is one of the most common questions we hear:

“Should I choose traditional braces or clear aligners?”

Both are excellent orthodontic solutions with proven results, but they offer different benefits and work better for different situations. Knowing the differences can help you choose what fits your smile goals, lifestyle, and treatment needs best.

Here’s what you should know about clear aligners vs. braces—and how to decide which one might be right for you.

Clear Aligners: Discreet and Convenient

Clear aligners (like Invisalign) use a series of custom-made, removable trays that gradually shift your teeth into alignment over time.

They’re designed to be nearly invisible, making them especially popular with adults and teens in Scottsdale and North Scottsdale who want a subtle way to improve their smile.

Best for:

• Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
• Patients who want a nearly invisible treatment
• Adults and teens who prefer flexibility and convenience

Advantages:

• Removable for meals, brushing, and special occasions
• Virtually invisible in photos, at work, or school
• Smooth plastic with no brackets or wires to irritate cheeks
• Typically fewer emergency visits for broken brackets or wires

Considerations:

• Requires discipline—must be worn 20–22 hours daily
• Not ideal for severe bite issues or highly complex tooth movements

Clear aligners can be a fantastic choice if you want control over when you wear them and prefer a discreet treatment that fits a busy lifestyle.

Traditional Braces: Tried and True

Traditional braces use brackets and wires to move teeth into position with steady, controlled pressure. They’ve been used for decades—and for good reason.

Modern braces are more comfortable and sleeker than in the past, with options like ceramic brackets that are less noticeable.

Best for:

• Complex bite corrections (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
• Severe crowding or tooth rotation
• Patients who need highly precise, doctor-controlled movements

Advantages:

• Extremely reliable for all types of orthodontic cases
• No risk of forgetting to wear them—they’re always working
• Often faster for certain complex movements or bite corrections

Considerations:

• Visible when you smile, though clear or ceramic options are less obvious
• Can cause mild irritation to cheeks or gums
• Requires special cleaning tools and techniques to maintain good hygiene

Braces remain the gold standard for cases that need significant tooth movement or complex bite corrections.

Braces vs. Clear Aligners: How to Choose

There’s no universal answer—both clear aligners and braces can deliver excellent results when used for the right cases.

Your choice depends on factors like:

• Your specific bite and alignment issues
• Your age and lifestyle needs
• Your goals for comfort, appearance, and flexibility
• How disciplined you can be about daily wear and maintenance

At Elevation Dental Group in North Scottsdale, Dr. Bruce Lachot and Dr. Jordan Wachter are committed to helping you make an informed, confident decision. We take the time to carefully evaluate your bite, discuss your goals, and explain your options in detail.

Our goal is to ensure you receive personalized orthodontic care that fits your life, aligns with your cosmetic dentistry goals, and helps you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve.

Ready to Learn More About Your Options?

We’d love to help you choose the best path to a straighter smile. Schedule your appointment here or call 480-515-1000 to get started.