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Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces: What’s Right for Your Smile?

So you’ve decided it’s time to straighten your smile — but which path should you choose? In one corner, we have traditional braces: the tried-and-true heavyweight champion of tooth movement. In the other, sleek, nearly invisible clear aligners: the new kid on the block with a modern twist.


Let’s break down the pros, cons, and surprises of both so you can find your perfect match!


The Classic: Traditional Braces

Metal braces might not be glamorous, but they’re powerful. Fixed to your teeth with brackets and wires, they’re especially effective for complex bite issues, significant crowding, and rotating stubborn teeth. And while you can’t remove them, that means they’re always working — 24/7 — to shift your smile into shape.


Pros:

Great for complex cases

Durable and reliable

No chance of losing them


Cons:

Metal is visible (though colorful bands can make it fun!)

Brushing and flossing around brackets takes extra care


The Modern Contender: Clear Aligners

Clear aligners (like Invisalign®) are smooth, custom trays that fit snugly over your teeth. They’re nearly invisible, removable, and often more comfortable than metal braces. Plus, you can eat whatever you want — just pop them out during meals!


Pros:

Discreet appearance

Easy brushing and flossing

Fewer food restrictions


Cons:

Requires discipline (you need to wear them 20–22 hours daily)

Might not be ideal for severe cases


So… Which Should You Choose?

If you have mild to moderate alignment issues and love the idea of subtle treatment, clear aligners might be your perfect match. But if you have more complex needs — or want the confidence of a system that doesn’t depend on daily compliance — traditional braces could be your best bet.


At Rancho Bernardo Cosmetic & Family Dental Care, we’ll help you weigh your options and design a treatment plan that fits your life and smile goals.


Book Your Consultation Today!

Ready to get started? Call us at (858) 385-1838 or email rbdentalcare@yahoo.com and discover which path to a straighter smile is right for you!


Dr. John Mobilia, DMD 

Dr John, with over 30 years of experience. I went to the University of San Diego (USD) and received a bachelor's in chemistry. I earned my DMD graduating in the top 10% of my class from Boston University. I then continued on to a residency program in advanced education in general dentistry (AEDG) earning a certificate of advanced Dentistry (CAGS). I joined the Navy a year after finishing my residency. My Advanced degrees placed me in positions of higher responsibility and Leadership. After my honorable discharge , I practiced in the private sector in Tierrasanta for 13 years. Primarily caring to Navy families and their children.


 I then opened my own practice 13 years ago in Rancho Bernardo acquiring the most modern equipment available, while retaining that small town sense of individual attention, that seems to be lost in the corporate dental offices.

Dr. Julia Ng, DDS

Dr Ng, received her bachelors of science in Biology. She then received her DDS from University of the Pacific, San Francisco with high honors and an emphasis on general dentistry. She enjoys traveling and doing volunteer work. Her goal is to give back to the community that has given so much. She hopes to not only inspire her patients to have a healthier smile but to also lead healthier lives. Her free time is spent hiking, scuba diving and yoga. 

Nancy Vuong, RDH

Earned two AS Degrees in science at Mesa College, then completed the hygiene program at San Joaquin Valley College. She works full time as a dental hygienist and enjoys reading, hiking, running and outdoor activities with her two sons.