- Both SureSmile clear aligners and traditional braces straighten teeth effectively
- SureSmile is nearly invisible and removable
- Braces are sometimes better for complex cases
- Dr. Gegzna can help you figure out which option fits your situation
If you've been thinking about straightening your teeth, you've probably wondered whether to go with clear aligners or traditional braces. Both work. But they work differently, feel different, and fit different lifestyles. Here's a straightforward comparison to help you decide.
What Is SureSmile?
SureSmile is a clear aligner system — a series of custom-made, removable trays that gradually shift your teeth into better alignment. Each tray is worn for about one to two weeks before you move to the next one in the series. SureSmile uses advanced 3D imaging to plan your treatment and design trays that are precisely fitted to your teeth. The result is a predictable, comfortable path to a straighter smile — without the metal. At Rabbit Creek Dental, we offer SureSmile as our clear aligner option for patients who want to straighten their teeth discreetly.
What Are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces use metal brackets bonded to your teeth, connected by wires that your orthodontist or dentist adjusts periodically to move teeth gradually into position. Braces are fixed — you can't remove them. They work around the clock, which can be an advantage for complex cases that require precise force control.
How Do They Compare?
Appearance
SureSmile trays are made of clear plastic and are nearly invisible. Most people won't notice you're wearing them unless they're looking closely.
Traditional braces are visible. Ceramic braces are less noticeable, but metal braces are obvious.
Comfort
SureSmile trays have smooth edges and no brackets to irritate your cheeks or lips. New trays may feel tight for a day or two as your teeth begin to shift.
Braces can cause soreness after adjustments and irritation from brackets and wires.
Removability
SureSmile trays come out for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. You put them back in after.
Braces are fixed and stay in for the entire treatment period.
Compliance
SureSmile requires discipline — trays need to be worn 20–22 hours per day to work as planned. Wearing them less means slower results.
Braces work whether you remember to cooperate or not, which can be an advantage for patients who struggle with compliance.
Treatment time
Both options vary by case. Mild to moderate cases with SureSmile may be completed in 6–18 months.
Complex cases with braces can take 18–36 months or more.
Case complexity
SureSmile handles most common alignment issues well — crowding, spacing, mild to moderate bite issues.
Traditional braces are often better suited for more complex bite corrections or cases requiring significant tooth movement.
Oral hygiene
SureSmile is easier — you remove the trays and brush and floss normally.
Braces require more effort to clean around brackets and wires, and food can get trapped more easily.
Which One Is Right for You?
SureSmile may be the better fit if you want a discreet option for professional or social reasons; have mild to moderate alignment issues; are disciplined about wearing the trays consistently; value the ability to remove your aligners for eating and special occasions. Traditional braces may be the better fit if you have complex bite issues that require more precise force control; are concerned about the compliance required for aligners; are treating a teenager who might lose or forget to wear removable trays.
The best way to know is to come in for a consultation. As part of our cosmetic dentistry services, Dr. Gegzna will evaluate your teeth and bite, discuss your goals, and recommend the option that gives you the best result.
What Does SureSmile Cost?
Cost depends on the complexity of your case and how much movement is needed. We'll give you a full cost estimate at your consultation, including what your insurance may cover. Many PPO dental plans include an orthodontic benefit, and we also offer financing options to spread out the cost. We'll check your coverage before you make any decisions. We serve patients from Mobile, Theodore, Grand Bay, and across the Gulf Coast area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Treatment time varies depending on how much movement is needed. Mild cases may be complete in 6–12 months. More involved cases can take 12–18 months or longer.
Yes — you remove the trays before eating and drinking anything other than water. Put them back in after you've brushed. There are no food restrictions with SureSmile.
For most common alignment issues, yes. SureSmile uses advanced 3D planning technology to achieve precise, predictable results. Very complex bite issues may still be better suited to braces.
Some PPO plans include an orthodontic benefit that applies to clear aligners. We'll verify your coverage at your consultation.
Dr. Joseph Gegzna, DMD is the founder and lead dentist at Rabbit Creek Dental in Mobile, Alabama. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has been a licensed dentist in Alabama since 2014, with more than 12 years of experience in general, restorative, and implant dentistry. After several years practicing as an associate, he founded Rabbit Creek Dental in 2022 to build the kind of patient-first practice he believed in. He has completed advanced implant training through a 92-hour Implant Pathway program with live patient surgery and additional surgical training in impacted third molar extractions through the Koerner Center for Surgical Instruction. He is a member of the American Dental Association and is currently in his third year of the Bulletproof Dental Mastermind program, a continuing education group focused on delivering an exceptional patient experience. Before dentistry, Dr. Gegzna was a licensed pilot, bringing a calm, detail-oriented approach to patient care. Rabbit Creek Dental serves families throughout Mobile.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personalized guidance about your dental health, please contact our office at (251) 308-0584.