Clear Aligners vs. Braces: Which Is Better for Fixing Teeth Gaps?

A confident smile can make you feel very good about yourself, improve your self-esteem, and leave a positive impression on others. However, for many people, gaps between teeth (termed diastema) can be a cause of embarrassment. While some people accept their tooth gap and consider this a unique feature, other people will still feel insecure and seek a remedy.

Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective ways to fix teeth gaps, allowing people to achieve the smile they want. Two of the most popular options are clear aligners and braces, which will both work very effectively to close gaps between teeth and improve dental alignment. However, with so many options available, how do you know what is better for you? In this blog, we will break down the causes of gaps in teeth and what the best treatment option is for it.

What Causes Gaps in Teeth?

There are several reasons why someone might have gap teeth:

• Genetics: If your parents had diastema, you might have it too. Studies show that tooth gap can run in families.
• Thumb-Sucking: Kids who suck their thumbs for a long time can push their front teeth forward, creating gaps.
• Tongue Thrusting: Pushing your tongue against your teeth when swallowing can widen spaces over time. According to the Cleveland Clinic, tongue thrusting is a key reason for gap teeth in kids and adults.
• Missing Teeth: When a tooth is missing, the nearby teeth may shift, creating a tooth gap.
• Gum Disease: Serious gum infections can cause bone loss, leading to gaps. The American Academy of Periodontology states that gum disease is a leading cause of tooth gaps in adults.

Quick Facts About Gaps in Teeth

• Diastema can be seen in approximately 98% of 6-year-olds, 49% of 11-year-olds, and 7% of 12–18-year-olds.
• Some people embrace their gap teeth as a unique feature, while others choose treatment.
• If the tooth gaps are left untreated, they may lead to speech problems and bite issues.
• Dentists often suggest treatment if a tooth gap is wider than 2mm, it could majorly affect oral health.

Problems Caused by Gaps in Teeth

Some famous people, like Madonna and Elijah Wood, love their gap teeth, but not everyone feels the same way. Here are some challenges that come with diastema:

• Speech Issues: Large tooth gaps can cause whistling sounds when saying words with “s” or “th.”
• Food Getting Stuck: Gaps between teeth make it easy for food to get trapped, increasing the risk of plaque build-up, cavities, and gum disease.
• Bite Problems: Big gaps can create an uneven bite, leading to jaw pain and difficulty chewing. The Angle Orthodontist journal explains how untreated diastema can lead to misaligned bites over time.
• Low Confidence: T he American Association of Orthodontists found that 78% of adults seek orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons, with fixing teeth gaps being a common concern.

Clear Aligners vs. Braces: Which Is Better?

Both braces and clear aligners work well for fixing teeth gaps, but they have key differences. Let’s compare them.

Braces

• How They Work: Metal brackets and wires apply steady pressure to close gaps.
• Best for: Severe tooth gaps and major bite problems.
• Effectiveness: Studies in Orthodontics & Craniofacial Research confirm that braces are the best method for severe diastema.
• Visibility: Braces are noticeable, which can be a concern for adults.
• Treatment Time: Typically 12 to 24 months.

Clear Aligners

• How They Work: Custom-made plastic trays shift teeth into place.
• Best for: Mild to moderate gap teeth.
• Effectiveness: The American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics found that aligners successfully close tooth gaps in 4 to 6 months.
• Comfort & Aesthetics: Nearly invisible and more comfortable than braces.
• Removability: Unlike braces, aligners can be removed for eating and brushing.
• Limitations: It may not be suitable for very large diastema or complex cases.

Why ALIGNERCO Clear Aligners Are a Great Choice

When it comes to fixing teeth gaps, ALIGNERCO has become a popular choice for many reasons:

Affordable Treatment

ALIGNERCO offers clear aligners at a fraction of the cost of braces or in-office clear aligners. ALIGNERCO’s treatment is one of the most affordable treatment options in the US.

At-Home Convenience

Unlike braces, ALIGNERCO does not require frequent dentist visits. You can start by purchasing an at-home impression kit, making it a great option for busy people.

A study in Telemedicine and e-health suggests that remote dental care for aligners is just as effective as in-office visits for mild cases.

Fast & Effective Results

Most ALIGNERCO users start seeing results in just 4 to 6 months.

Research published in the National Library of Medicine states that aligners can move teeth faster than braces in non-complex cases.

Nearly Invisible & Comfortable

Unlike traditional metal braces, ALIGNERCO’s clear aligners are transparent and comfortable..

Research says that over 19 million people prefer clear aligners over braces because they are more discreet.

Key Takeaways

• Genetics, oral habits, or gum disease can cause gaps in teeth.
• Fixing teeth gaps is essential for better oral health, speech, and confidence.
• Braces work best for severe diastema but take longer and are more visible.
• Clear aligners are an easy, discreet way to fix mild to moderate tooth gaps.
• ALIGNERCO clear aligners offer a budget-friendly, convenient, and research-backed solution for gap teeth.