By Dr. Dharmin Sandhu, Lead Dentist · May 25, 2026 · Clear Aligners

Choosing to straighten your teeth is a major step toward improving both the aesthetics of your smile and your long-term oral health. Aligning your bite prevents uneven wear on enamel, makes cleaning easier, and reduces strain on the jaw. Today, patients have more options than ever, with clear aligners and traditional metal braces leading the way.

Traditional braces remain the most powerful tool for correcting complex orthodontic cases. Comprising metal brackets and archwires, they are fixed to the teeth and adjusted periodically by your orthodontist. Braces are highly effective for severe crowding, rotation, or vertical spacing issues. However, they require careful cleaning, dietary restrictions, and are highly visible.

Clear aligners offers a nearly invisible alternative. Using a custom-made series of clear plastic trays, aligners apply gentle pressure to gradually guide teeth into place. The primary benefit of aligners is that they are removable. You can take them out to eat, brush, and floss normally, meaning no dietary restrictions and simplified oral hygiene.

For active Canadians, aligners also offer a safety benefit. If you play contact sports like hockey, basketball, or soccer, fixed metal brackets can cause cuts and lacerations inside the mouth during impact. Clear aligners can be taken out and replaced with a standard sports mouthguard, protecting your teeth without damaging your orthodontic appliance.

Treatment duration depends on the complexity of your alignment needs. Braces typically stay on for 18 to 24 months, whereas clear aligners treatments often range between 12 to 18 months, provided they are worn for the recommended 22 hours per day. At Grace Dental Centre, we provide comprehensive consultations to help you determine which treatment aligns with your goals, budget, and lifestyle.