Effect of clear aligners and fixed appliances among orthodontic patients: A comparative study

Orthodontic treatment can be delivered using clear aligners (CA) or fixed appliances (FA), yet direct comparisons of overall efficacy remain limited. This randomized controlled trial included 120 patients (60 CA, 60 FA) with mild-to-moderate malocclusions to evaluate treatment duration, occlusal outcomes (PAR index), pain, satisfaction and compliance. Treatment duration was longer with CA (18.2 ± 3.1 vs. 14.5 ± 2.8 months; p<0.001), while both groups achieved comparable PAR index reductions (p=0.082). Pain was lower and satisfaction higher in the CA group, with good compliance (21.8 ± 1.5 h/day). Both modalities effectively corrected malocclusions, with FA showing greater efficiency and CA providing superior comfort and patient experience.