When comparing clear aligners and traditional braces in terms of oral hygiene and the risk of bad breath and cavities, clear aligners generally offer significant advantages. Clear aligners are removable, allowing users to brush and floss their teeth normally after meals, thus minimizing plaque buildup and reducing the risk of halitosis and dental caries. In contrast, traditional braces have fixed brackets and wires that trap food particles, making cleaning more difficult and time-consuming. This creates more areas for bacterial colonization, especially around the brackets and under the archwires, increasing the risk of demineralization, white spot lesions, and cavities. Studies have shown that patients with fixed orthodontic appliances tend to have higher levels of plaque accumulation and a greater prevalence of Streptococcus mutans compared to those using clear aligners. Clear aligners also make professional cleaning easier during dental visits, while braces may obstruct full access to tooth surfaces. However, aligners require strict compliance with hygiene practices, including cleaning the trays themselves; otherwise, they too can harbor bacteria. In summary, while both systems demand diligence in oral hygiene, clear aligners provide a more hygienic environment when used properly, with reduced risk of bad breath and cavities compared to traditional braces. References: Alansari, R., et al. (2019). "Oral health implications of clear aligners: A systematic review." Saudi Dental Journal, 31(3), 224–231. Karkhanechi, M., et al. (2013). "Effect of orthodontic appliances on oral microbiota – A review." European Journal of Dentistry, 7(Suppl 1), S1–S8. Lombardo, L., et al. (2017). "The effect of clear aligners on the oral microbiota: A clinical study." Progress in Orthodontics, 18(1), 20. van Gastel, J., et al. (2008). "Longitudinal changes in microbiology and clinical periodontal parameters after placement of fixed orthodontic appliances." Journal of Periodontology, 79(11), 2078–2086.