The most frequent questions in June 2025 FAQ
Frequent questions – Aligner vs. Braces
What are Aligners ?
Aligners are transparent, clear splints that enable corrections to be made to misaligned teeth and jaws. Using a digital simulation of the desired result, the necessary small intermediate steps are calculated and the aligners are then custom-made for you.
What are the advantages of aligners compared to fixed braces?
Aligners are removable, virtually invisible and make dental care easier. Thanks to digital 3D planning, tooth movements are very gentle, biological and effective, and usually require fewer emergency appointments than braces.
Are aligners as effective as braces?
Yes! For most misalignments, modern aligners achieve the same results as fixed appliances – often even faster, because each splint is optimised virtually and digitally before treatment begins.
Why should I choose Dr. Sacha Ryf’s practice ?
We are an Invisalign Diamond Provider and have already successfully completed over 1,000 aligner cases. This experience, combined with modern 3D diagnostics, offers maximum planning reliability and beautiful, stable results.
How long does aligner treatment take compared to braces?
On average, 6–18 months. This is often shorter than with braces because several tooth movements are programmed in parallel. However, the exact duration depends on the individual’s initial situation.
How do I care for aligners properly?
Rinse each aligner under lukewarm water after meals and clean it once a day with the small ultrasonic cleaning device we provide. When you are on the go, you can clean the aligners with a soft toothbrush. This will keep the aligners clear and odourless.
What effect does removing attachments or brackets have on tooth enamel?
None visible, provided that the enamel surface was intact beforehand and the recommended hygiene measures were implemented. To remove the attachments or bonded brackets, we use the gentlest polishing methods possible to keep the tooth surface intact. (Study of Dr. Sacha Ryf, 2012, European Journal of Orthodontics 34 (2012) 25–32).
ALIGNER (INVISALIGN® )
BRACES (SPEED®)
Children
A first appointment with us is recommended before the 9th birthday. In this way, jaw misalignments can be recognised in good time and growth can be influenced favourably. We will be happy to give you comprehensive advice and support you and your child as you enter the world of orthodontics.
Adolescents
The time after the change of teeth is ideal for most orthodontic treatments. The jaw is still shapeable, growth can be influenced and all teeth can be moved into the optimum position. Young people are increasingly opting for the discreet version with clear aligners.
Adults
Tooth alignment corrections are always possible! Let us specialists give you comprehensive advice on which treatment options can be reliably realised for your individual requirements. Because we offer so many different options, you benefit from an ideal price-performance ratio with a long-term guarantee.