Orthodontics in Tbilisi: Braces vs Clear Aligners

If you’re comparing braces and clear aligners in Tbilisi, you’re likely weighing comfort, visibility, treatment time, and total cost in GEL. This guide gives you a clear, honest framework: when each option works best, what clinical research says, how Georgian regulations keep you safe, and what to expect at every step—so you can book your visit with confidence. We include transparent price ranges, practical tips, and a checklist for your first appointment.

When do you actually need orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics corrects issues like crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, and crossbite. Proper alignment improves chewing, speech, and long-term oral health by making hygiene easier and reducing uneven wear. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) notes that modern options range from fixed braces to clear aligners, and the right choice depends on case complexity and your goals. American Association of Orthodontists

Braces in Tbilisi — types, indications, and how they work

Braces use bonded brackets and archwires to move teeth gradually. Orthodontists adjust wire forces over time to guide teeth into position. Patient-friendly overviews from Cleveland Clinic and AAO explain how braces correct many bite problems and outline main types.

Metal vs ceramic vs lingual vs self-ligating

• Metal braces: durable, cost-effective, suitable for most cases.

• Ceramic (clear) braces: less visible; slightly larger/more fragile. Cleveland Clinic

• Lingual braces (behind the teeth): nearly invisible but may affect speech initially; typically higher skill/cost.

• Self-ligating braces: use clips instead of elastic ties; some patients report easier cleaning and shorter chair time (evidence varies by case). maiortho.com

  
  

Treatment timelines and adjustments

Most fixed-appliance cases run 12–24 months depending on complexity and growth patterns. Your orthodontist schedules periodic adjustments (often every 4–8 weeks) to change wire sequence and elastics. Cleveland Clinic provides a practical overview of timelines and visit cadence. Cleveland Clinic

Clear aligners in Tbilisi — who they fit best

Clear aligners are removable trays worn 20–22 hours/day that move teeth in small steps. They’re discreet, simplify brushing and flossing, and often feel gentler early on. However, success depends on strict wear time and aligners may be less suitable for certain complex movements without attachments or auxiliaries. Cleveland Clinic and AAO outline benefits and limits.

Braces vs aligners: data-driven comparison

Clinical literature shows both braces and aligners can effectively treat malocclusion. A widely cited analysis (2019) found clear aligners may have advantages for segmental tooth movements and shorter treatment time in selected cases, while fixed braces offer robust control for complex movements. Recent reviews (2025) report comparable effectiveness for mild-to-moderate cases, with aligners often scoring better on comfort and oral hygiene—if compliance is high.

Bottom line:

• Choose braces for complex corrections, significant rotations, or when you prefer “set-and-forget.”

• Choose aligners if you want removability and discretion—and can reliably wear trays 20–22 hours/day.

• 
  

Costs in Tbilisi (GEL): typical ranges, what’s included

Local clinics list starting points rather than flat prices (final cost depends on case complexity, materials, and follow-up). For example, a Tbilisi clinic advertises braces “from 1,000 GEL” and “straightening without braces” (aligners) from 3,800 GEL as starting figures—your plan may differ after records and diagnosis. medi.ge

Typical components included: consultation, records (photos, X-rays/scan), appliances, periodic adjustments, basic emergency visits, and one set of retainers post-treatment. For broader cost context, Cleveland Clinic notes U.S. braces price ranges vary widely by type; use this only as a cross-market benchmark, not a Georgian quote. Cleveland Clinic

Example fee table (indicative for Tbilisi; final plan after exam)

Option	What’s included (typical)	Indicative fee (GEL)
Metal braces	Full case, monthly adjustments, basic emergencies	1,800–3,500
Ceramic braces	As above; aesthetic brackets	2,500–4,500
Lingual braces	Custom lab work, behind-teeth brackets	5,500–8,500
Clear aligners (full)	Scans, staged trays, attachments, refinements	3,800–7,500

Notes: Ranges reflect local market starting points plus complexity; some clinics itemize records, retainers, or refinements separately. (Local price floor examples: from 1,000 GEL for braces; from 3,800 GEL for aligner-based straightening. ) medi.ge

Payment options & local banks

Many Tbilisi clinics support installments via major Georgian banks such as TBC and Bank of Georgia, or in-clinic staged payments that align with treatment phases. Confirm fees/interest and get a clear schedule before you start.

What your first orthodontic visit looks like

1. Consultation (30–45 min). Review concerns, medical/dental history, and visual exam.

2. Records. Photos, digital impressions/scan, and X-rays as needed to assess roots and jaw relationships.

3. Plan & options. You’ll see a proposed plan (braces vs aligners), estimated treatment time, and a transparent fee. AAO and Cleveland Clinic outline these steps for informed decision-making.

Living with treatment: diet, hygiene, check-ups

• Braces: avoid very hard/sticky foods; use interdental brushes and floss threaders. Expect occasional soreness for 1–3 days after adjustments.

• Aligners: remove for meals; brush before reinserting; store trays in a case. Wear time is the #1 predictor of success.

• Check-ups: braces every 4–8 weeks; aligners typically 6–10 weeks (with remote monitoring possible). Cleveland Clinic offers patient-level care tips and timelines. Cleveland Clinic

• 
  

Retention: keeping your new smile straight

All treatments end with retainers—fixed (bonded) or removable. Without retention, teeth can drift. Your plan will specify how long to wear retainers nightly; most patients use them indefinitely a few nights per week to maintain results. AAO emphasizes long-term retention as part of standard care. American Association of Orthodontists

Safety & regulation in Georgia

Orthodontic care in Georgia is regulated by the State Regulation Agency for Medical Activities (LEPL) under the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia. Always verify that your provider and clinic are properly licensed.

Avoid DIY or “fashion braces.” News features describe a social-media trend of non-medical “braces” that can cause tooth movement, infections, and permanent damage. Choose licensed care only. The Washington Post

Ultradent in Tbilisi

At Ultradent, your orthodontic assessment includes a full diagnostic workup, a written plan comparing braces and aligners for your case, and a clear fee with available installments. We follow Georgian regulatory standards and evidence-based protocols (AAO-aligned) from records to retention.

Book a Visit

Ready to compare options? Book your orthodontic assessment at Ultradent (Tbilisi) and get a tailored plan in GEL.

Key takeaways

• Both braces and aligners work; the right choice depends on case complexity and your lifestyle.

• Aligners demand 20–22 hours/day wear; braces are more “set-and-forget.”

• Expect 12–24 months for many cases; get a personalized estimate after records.

• In Tbilisi, clinics list starting prices (e.g., from 1,000 GEL for braces; from 3,800 GEL for aligners). medi.ge

• Choose licensed providers in line with Georgian regulations. regulation.moh.gov.ge

  
  

  FAQ

  
  

Are aligners faster than braces?

Sometimes—for selected movements and when worn 20–22 hours/day. Several reviews show comparable effectiveness overall; treatment time depends on complexity and compliance.

Which is better for complex cases?

Fixed braces often give orthodontists more precise control for rotations, extrusions, or complex bite corrections; aligners can still work with attachments/auxiliaries, but case selection matters.

How much do braces or aligners cost in Tbilisi?

Expect clinic-specific quotes after diagnosis. As a market reference, local advertising shows braces from ~1,000 GEL and aligner straightening from ~3,800 GEL, with totals varying by case.

Will I need extractions or IPR (slenderizing teeth)?

Only if crowding/arch form requires space. Your plan explains why and how much reduction (if any) is indicated, with informed consent first.

Do aligners hurt less?

Most patients report gentler pressure changes, especially at the start of each tray. Comfort varies by person and case.

How often are check-ups?

Braces: usually every 4–8 weeks. Aligners: roughly every 6–10 weeks (sometimes remote). Your plan defines the cadence.

Is it safe to buy “fashion braces” online?

No. Non-medical braces can damage teeth and cause infections. Always see a licensed provider.

Will I need a retainer after treatment?

Yes. Retention prevents relapse. Expect long-term nightly wear, tapering per your plan.