Braces vs Clear Aligners: Cost, Time & Which Is Better

Braces or clear aligners: which is better?

Short answer

Neither is better for everyone: braces are fixed and handle more complex cases, while clear aligners are nearly invisible and removable but only work if worn about 20–22 hours a day. At Kashyap Dental & Aesthetics in Butwal, metal braces cost NPR 75,000–85,000, ceramic braces NPR 90,000–1,00,000 and clear aligners NPR 1,30,000–2,40,000. MDS orthodontist Dr. Madhav Pandey recommends the right option after examining you.

How do braces and aligners compare?

	Metal braces	Ceramic braces	Clear aligners
Cost (NPR)	75,000–85,000	90,000–1,00,000	1,30,000–2,40,000
Typical duration	12–24 months	12–24 months	Often 6–18 months
Visibility	Visible	Tooth-coloured, less visible	Nearly invisible
Removable	No	No	Yes, for eating and brushing
Discipline needed	Low: fixed in place	Low: fixed in place	High: wear about 20–22 hours a day
Best for	All ages, complex cases	Teens and adults who want discretion	Mild to moderate crowding or gaps

(Durations are typical ranges; your orthodontist gives your timeline after examination.)

Who decides which one I get?

The orthodontist, after an examination with photos and X-rays. At Kashyap Dental & Aesthetics, every braces and aligner case is planned by Dr. Madhav Pandey, MDS (NMC 15670).

Frequently asked questions

Can adults get braces?

Yes, at any age if teeth and gums are healthy.

Can I eat with aligners?

You remove aligners to eat and drink anything except plain water, then brush before putting them back.

Do I need a retainer after braces?

Yes. Teeth tend to drift back, so a retainer is worn after treatment as advised by your orthodontist.

Sources

NHS: Braces