Sep 18, 2025

Braces vs Clear Aligners: Do Braces Really Take Longer?

You want straighter teeth without dragging out the process. You have probably heard that clear aligners are faster than braces, or that braces are better for complex cases but take years. The truth is more nuanced. As Specialist Orthodontists, we plan your treatment around biology, tooth movement goals, and how we can keep you comfortable and on track. In this guide, we compare braces and clear aligners, clarify how long each typically takes, and share what really affects your timeline. You will also see how our team at Class 1 Orthodontics supports you at every step so you can choose the option that fits your life.

Do braces take longer than clear aligners?

Not always. Average treatment time for both braces and clear aligners commonly ranges from 6 to 24 months, depending on your bite, goals, and consistency. Some mild cases finish in under a year. More complex movements, like correcting significant crowding, bite discrepancies, or rotations, can take longer with either method.

What often creates the impression that aligners are faster is the ability to sequence movements cleanly in the digital plan, then change trays every 1 to 2 weeks. Braces can be just as efficient when treatment is well planned and monitored. Modern systems such as LightForce^™ 3D printed braces allow a highly customised approach that can improve control and efficiency compared with traditional, stock brackets.

The bottom line, one option is not inherently faster in every case. The right choice is the method that works best for your specific tooth movements and lifestyle, guided by an experienced Specialist Orthodontist.

Is it a myth that clear aligners are always faster?

Yes, that is a myth. Clear aligners like Invisalign^® can be very efficient, especially for alignment and spacing, but speed depends on case complexity and your wear habits. If aligners are not worn as prescribed, treatment slows down. If attachments or elastics are skipped, tracking can be lost which may require refinements. When aligners are worn consistently, results can be quick and predictable.

Braces do not rely on wear time in the same way. They work around the clock because they are always on your teeth. For certain movements, such as significant root torque or complex bite corrections, braces can be more direct. In many cases, the timelines for braces and aligners are similar.

What affects the treatment time for both braces and clear aligners?

Several factors influence how long your treatment will take. The major ones are:

• Case complexity: Crowding, spacing, impacted teeth, deep overbite, open bite, crossbite, and jaw discrepancies each add time.
• Biology and age: Bone remodelling rates vary. Teens often move a little faster than adults, though adults still achieve excellent results.
• Precision of the plan: Digital planning, custom appliances, and accurate bracket placement improve efficiency. LightForce^™ custom braces and advanced aligner planning help reduce mid-course corrections.
• Compliance:
  • Aligners need 20 to 22 hours of wear daily, plus care with attachments and elastics if prescribed.
  • Braces need good hygiene and diet care to avoid breakages. Broken brackets and missed appointments extend treatment.
• Appointment and monitoring cadence: Consistent check-ins allow timely adjustments. With remote monitoring tools where appropriate, we can reduce in-clinic visits while still keeping your case on track.
• Oral health and habits: Gum health, clenching or grinding, and missing teeth can influence pace and mechanics.
• Finishing goals: Fine detailing and bite settling improve quality. A few extra weeks can make a big difference to your final smile.

Braces vs aligners, what the experience is like

• Appearance: Aligners are clear and removable. Braces are visible, though ceramic and LightForce^™ options are discreet.
• Comfort: Both can cause short periods of pressure when forces change. Aligners avoid bracket rub, while braces remove the need to remember wear time.
• Hygiene: Aligners come out for eating and brushing. Braces require careful cleaning around brackets, interdental brushes, and flossing aids.
• Lifestyle: If you are disciplined with wear and keen on a nearly invisible option, aligners are appealing. If you prefer a set-and-forget approach, braces may suit you better.

How we use today's tech to streamline treatment

At Class 1 Orthodontics, we plan with 3D imaging and use systems that support precision:

• Invisalign^® for discreet, removable treatment with detailed digital planning.
• Angel Aligners for clear aligner therapy with staged movement control.
• LightForce^™ custom braces that are 3D printed to fit your tooth anatomy, designed for accurate placement and efficient biomechanics.
• Remote progress tools where clinically appropriate to keep your case moving between visits.

Our goal is to reduce unplanned delays, minimise refinements or emergency repairs, and keep you informed so you always know what comes next.

How to choose between braces and clear aligners at Class 1 Orthodontics

Start by thinking about your day-to-day routine and preferences:

• Will you wear aligners 20 to 22 hours a day without forgetting?
• Do you prefer something fixed so you do not need to think about it?
• Do you play contact sports or musical instruments where a removable option helps?
• Is a more discreet look important for work or school?

Next, meet with a Specialist Orthodontist for a tailored assessment. We will review your bite, discuss treatment pathways, and outline expected timelines for each option. We will also explain costs and payment plans, and how we monitor progress. If your case is equally suited to both options, your lifestyle and comfort will guide the final decision. If one method offers clearer advantages for your movements or bite correction, we will explain why and show you a realistic plan.

If you are comparing clear systems, our team provides both Invisalign^® and Angel Aligners. If you are leaning toward fixed appliances, LightForce^™ custom braces offer a modern alternative to traditional brackets with improved precision and aesthetics.

Realistic timelines you can trust

• Mild alignment changes: often 6 to 12 months with either braces or aligners.
• Moderate cases: commonly 12 to 18 months.
• Complex corrections: 18 to 24 months, sometimes longer, especially when jaw position or impacted teeth are involved.

Every case is unique, so your timeline may sit outside these ranges. The key drivers are a precise plan, consistent wear or care, good oral hygiene, and responsive follow up.

Your next step

The fastest path is the one designed for your smile and supported by a team that keeps you on track. Book an initial consultation with our Specialist Orthodontists to compare options and timelines for your specific case. If you are curious about discreet fixed appliances, explore LightForce^™ custom braces. If removability is a priority, ask us about Invisalign^® or Angel Aligners.

You can also learn more about clear options on our page for clear aligners in Perth, and read about LightForce^™. If you prefer traditional but modernised fixed care, start with our braces options.

Summary

Do braces take longer than clear aligners? Not by default. With a well planned approach and consistent care, both can deliver great results on similar timelines. Aligners shine when you want discretion and removability, provided you are diligent with wear. Braces are always working and can be highly efficient, particularly with custom systems like LightForce^™. Your biology, treatment goals, and day-to-day habits make the biggest difference. We are here to help you choose with confidence and support your journey from the first scan to your final retainer. Book your initial consultation to map out a timeline that is realistic, efficient, and tailored to you.