Clear aligners have made straightening teeth far more appealing for working adults: no metal, and removable for meetings and meals. But braces still win in certain cases. Here is how to think about the choice.
Where aligners shine
For mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and mild bite issues, clear aligners work beautifully. They are nearly invisible, comfortable, and you can remove them to eat and clean normally. For image-conscious professionals, that is a big deal.
Where braces still win
Complex bite corrections, severe rotations, and cases that need heavy tooth movement are often faster and more predictable with fixed braces. Braces also remove the discipline problem, aligners only work if you wear them 20 to 22 hours a day, every day.
The honest cost and time picture
Aligners usually cost a little more than metal braces and take a similar amount of time for comparable cases. The right answer depends entirely on your specific teeth, which is why a proper assessment with scans beats any online quiz.