At Nakisher Orthodontics in Farmington Hills and Commerce Township, we help patients of all ages choose the orthodontic treatment that’s right for them. This guide explains what traditional metal and ceramic braces are, as well as clear aligners like Invisalign, and which option may be right for you.
Traditional Metal & Ceramic Braces
What They Are: Braces consist of brackets glued to your teeth and connected by wires. Metal braces have stainless steel brackets, while ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend in more.
LightForce Braces: We also offer LightForce braces, a customized braces system that uses 3D-printed brackets designed to fit each tooth. This personalized approach can improve precision and provide an efficient treatment experience while still offering the benefits of fixed braces.
How They Work: Braces apply steady force to teeth. At your appointments, the orthodontist will tighten or replace the archwire, which gradually shifts the teeth. Because braces are fixed, they are always working—patients do not have to remember to wear them.
Why Choose Braces: Braces are extremely versatile and can correct complex cases, including severe crowding, large gaps, significant rotations, and major bite issues that aligners alone may not fully address. You can choose metal braces, ceramic (clear) braces, and customized options like LightForce braces to balance effectiveness, comfort, and appearance. Because they are fixed in place, braces work 24/7.
Considerations with Braces: The biggest drawback is appearance. Metal braces are noticeable, and ceramic braces, while less obvious, are still visible. Oral hygiene requires extra care because food and plaque can gather around brackets, so diligent brushing and flossing are essential. Hard or sticky foods (like nuts, gum, caramel, and popcorn) should be avoided to prevent damage. After placement or wire adjustments, teeth may feel sore or tender for a few days, but this is normal and temporary.
Treatment Duration: Braces generally take 1–3 years to achieve the desired results, depending on case complexity. Younger patients often start between ages 8–14, but braces can work at any age—even into adulthood. Once braces are removed, most patients wear a retainer to keep teeth in their new positions.
Clear Aligners & Invisalign
What They Are: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are custom-made, thin plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Invisalign is a well-known brand, but many orthodontists offer similar clear aligner systems. Each tray shifts teeth slightly, and you replace the trays regularly to continue moving teeth.
How They Work: Aligners work by applying gentle pressure. You wear them most of the day (about 20–22 hours), taking them out only to eat, drink (anything other than water), and brush/floss. Every 1–2 weeks, you switch to the next aligner in the series. You’ll visit our office roughly every 6–8 weeks so we can monitor progress and provide the next set of aligners.
Why Choose Aligners: The main advantage is that aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for image-conscious teens and adults. You remove aligners to eat, so there are no dietary restrictions. Oral hygiene is also easier because you can brush and floss normally. Many patients find aligners comfortable since there are no wires or sharp edges, though mild pressure is common when switching to a new tray.
Considerations with Aligners: Aligners require discipline and must be worn consistently to stay on track. They work best for mild-to-moderate tooth movements, while traditional braces may be more predictable for very complex cases. Losing an aligner or forgetting to wear it can delay progress. Patients also need to keep aligners clean and avoid staining drinks while wearing them.
Treatment Duration: Treatment with aligners often ranges from 12 to 24 months, similar to braces. Some people finish faster with aligners, especially in mild cases. After the final aligner, we usually provide a removable retainer (often clear) to help maintain your new smile.
Braces vs. Invisalign: A Side-by-Side Look
| Feature | Braces (Fixed) | Clear Aligners (Removable) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Metal braces are obvious, ceramic braces are tooth-colored (but still noticeable). | Virtually invisible clear plastic trays; most people won’t notice you’re wearing them. |
| Treatment Time | Typically 1–3 years (varies by case); complex movements can take longer. | Usually similar range (12–24 months); simple cases may finish faster. |
| Hygiene | Requires extra tools (threader, water flosser) to clean around brackets. More effort needed to prevent plaque. | Very easy: remove aligners to brush/floss normally. Clean aligners daily. |
| Diet | Must avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods (nuts, gum, popcorn, etc.). | No restrictions—remove aligners to eat anything, then brush and replace them. |
| Best For | Complex cases (severe crowding, bite issues, major rotations). All ages. | Mild-to-moderate cases; motivated teens/adults who want a discreet option. |
| Age Range | All ages: kids, teens, adults. Even young children can start in some cases. | Typically teens (after teeth erupt, ~12+) and adults. Requires patient compliance. |
| Comfort | Can cause rubbing in cheeks/lips initially; teeth feel pressure after adjustments. | Smooth trays cause minimal irritation; you may feel mild pressure when changing trays. |
Both braces and aligners can achieve excellent results. The best choice depends on your orthodontic needs and lifestyle. At Nakisher Orthodontics, we’ll carefully evaluate your smile and goals to recommend the right appliance for you.
Treatment Process and Timeline
Consultation: We begin with X-rays, photos, and a digital scan or impression to diagnose your teeth and bite. Together, we’ll discuss which treatment will give you the smile you want.
Getting Started:
Braces: We bond brackets to your teeth and insert the first wire. Your teeth may feel slightly tender for the first day or two.
Aligners: You’ll receive your first set of custom trays. We’ll ensure they fit well and show you how to insert and remove them.
Active Treatment:
Braces: Every 4–6 weeks, you come in for adjustments. We’ll tighten or replace wires to continue moving teeth.
Aligners: You’ll switch to a new aligner at home every 1–2 weeks and visit us about every 6–8 weeks so we can check progress and provide the next batch of trays.
Finishing Touches: When your teeth reach the planned alignment, braces are removed or you finish the last aligner. We’ll polish off any remaining attachments (for aligners) and make any minor final adjustments.
Retention: After treatment, you’ll wear a retainer. This may be a clear removable tray or a thin wire bonded behind your teeth. Retainers help prevent teeth from shifting back.
Typical Milestones: Most patients notice changes within the first few months. By the middle of treatment, much of the major alignment work is complete, with final fine-tuning happening in later phases.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
Braces: Great for children, teens, and adults with any level of complexity. If your bite needs major correction (overbite, underbite, crossbite) or you have extreme crowding or spacing, braces can handle it. Braces also suit patients who may struggle to remember to wear aligners. Because braces are fixed, results are predictable even if you forget an appointment.
Invisalign/Clear Aligners: Best for motivated patients who want flexibility. Great for correcting mild-to-moderate misalignments like slightly crowded or spaced teeth and mild bite issues. Aligners are popular with self-conscious adults and teens because they’re discreet. A good candidate is someone who will faithfully wear the trays as prescribed (about 22 hours/day).
Our orthodontists will recommend the right option after a thorough exam. For example, a very deep bite might be better served with braces, whereas a mild overbite might be easily handled with aligners. No matter which you start with, our goal is the same: a healthy, straight smile.