Metal aligners
Metal braces use bonded brackets and an archwire, while clear aligners use removable thermoplastic trays to move selected teeth.
How do metal braces compare with clear aligners?
Metal braces use bonded brackets and an archwire, while clear aligners use removable thermoplastic trays to move selected teeth.
How do braces and aligners apply force to move teeth?
Brackets transmit force through an archwire; aligners transmit programmed forces through fitted trays.
What does an orthodontic assessment check before treatment?
An orthodontic assessment checks bite, roots, bone, gums, spacing, and hygiene before choosing a system.
When should crowding or an uncomfortable bite be assessed?
Seek assessment for crowding, rotation, spacing, difficult cleaning, or an uncomfortable bite; treat active decay or gum disease first.
Which tooth movements does your bite require from treatment?
Which movements does my bite require?
Frequently asked questions
Can home care replace diagnosis?
Home care may reduce irritation but does not remove the dental cause.
What will the dentist examine?
The dentist will inspect the teeth and tissues and use imaging or tests when needed.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.