Clear Aligners in Ohio

Clear aligners are easy to remove for meals and brushing, while clear braces stay fixed to your teeth for round-the-clock guidance. Unlike metal appliances, clear braces blend in with your smile using tooth-colored or translucent brackets. If you want a removable option, clear aligners are nearly invisible; if you want a set-it-and-forget-it approach, clear braces keep treatment moving without managing trays.

Both clear aligners and clear braces can achieve beautiful results. Clear aligners typically require wearing trays 20–22 hours per day and switching to a new set every 1–2 weeks. With clear braces, you’ll come in for periodic adjustments while enjoying a low-profile look that’s far less noticeable than metal.

Clear Aligners vs. Clear Ceramic Braces: What’s the Difference?

In-House Clear Aligners

We use precise scans and 3D printing to create your custom trays in-house. Prefer fixed appliances? Ask about our discreet clear braces option.

Clear Aligners For Adults

iTero® digital impressions build a precise aligner plan. For a low-visibility fixed path, our clear braces move teeth steadily without removable trays.

Clear Aligners For Teens

Teens love removable trays for sports and instruments. If you prefer not to track wear time, clear braces keep treatment on track 24/7.

Caring for Clear Aligners & Clear Braces

With clear aligners, clean trays using a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water (never hot, which can warp them). Only drink water while wearing trays; remove aligners for meals.
For clear braces, brush after meals, use threaders or a water flosser, and avoid sticky/hard foods that may damage brackets. Good habits keep clear aligners and clear braces clean, comfortable, and effective.

Clear Aligners & Clear Braces FAQ

How are clear braces different from clear aligners?

Clear aligners are removable plastic trays worn 20–22 hours per day, while clear braces use fixed, tooth-colored brackets and a thin wire to guide teeth continuously. Clear aligners offer removable convenience; clear braces deliver constant, built-in treatment.

Am I a candidate for clear aligners or clear braces?

Most teens and adults qualify for clear aligners or clear braces for crowding, spacing, and many bite issues. Our orthodontists will recommend clear aligners, clear braces, or a combo approach after your exam.

Do clear braces take longer than clear aligners?

Timelines vary by case. Some patients finish faster with clear braces due to constant wear, while others benefit from the flexibility of clear aligners. We’ll map your estimated time at your consultation.

Can I play sports or instruments with clear braces or clear aligners?

Yes. Clear aligners can be removed for practice or games (don’t forget to put them back in). With clear braces, use a protective mouthguard for contact sports; brackets are low-profile and discreet.

How much do clear aligners or clear braces cost?

Costs are similar and depend on complexity and time. We work with many insurance plans and offer flexible options, including
Shirck’s Smile Club, to make clear braces and clear aligners affordable.

What if I had braces before—should I pick clear aligners or clear braces?

Many patients use clear aligners for refinements after prior treatment; others choose clear braces for reliable, fixed guidance. If you have veneers or crowns, our orthodontists will confirm whether clear aligners or clear braces are appropriate.

What happens after treatment with clear aligners or clear braces?

You’ll wear retainers to protect your new smile. Whether you used clear aligners or clear braces, retainers help maintain alignment long-term.

Give us a call today to schedule a consultation with our orthodontists and compare clear aligners and clear braces in Pataskala,
New Albany, Westerville, Newark and Powell, Ohio. We look forward to building your dream smile with clear aligners or clear braces.