Invisalign vs Braces
There are a lot of options when you are considering orthodontic treatment. Traditional braces involve wires and metal brackets attached to your teeth and clear aligners such as Invisalign, use invisible trays to straighten your teeth. In the section, we will review some of the differences between traditional braces and Invisalign.
Orthodontic treatment not only improves the aesthetics of your smile but it also helps improve the overall health of your teeth and gums.
Braces v Invisalign
Traditional braces have been the go-to treatment for decades. Clear liner therapy has only been around for 20 years but has already seen great results.
Braces use metal brackets which are bonded directly to the front of your teeth and are the support for the metal wire threaded through the brackets which is tightened and modified to pull teeth into place. Clear brackets and white wires are an option and can make wearing traditional braces a little easier.
Invisalign in cleveland tx uses clear BPA free plastic liners that are worn over your teeth and are periodically changed as your teeth shift. X-rays, impressions, and pictures are used to create your individualized treatment.
How do you decide which treatment will be best for you?
As with any treatment, braces and Invisalign both have their own pros and cons. For one, Invisalign trays are removable and braces are not. Other things to consider include:
Color | Braces: metallic, colored, or tooth-colored
Invisalign: invisible
Treatment time | Braces: average of 2 years
Invisalign: 6-18 months
Maintenance | Braces: brushing and flossing around brackets and wires can be difficult
Invisalign: brush and floss easily, clean trays with lukewarm water and toothbrush
Follow up visits | Braces: monthly
Invisalign: 4-6 weeks
Some soreness and discomfort is inevitable with any orthodontic treatment. With braces, food can easily become trapped between brackets and under the wires which can lead to decay if not properly cleaned regularly. Invisalign trays are removed for eating and allow you to floss and brush any food particles away before replacing the trays. Patients who participate in contact sports could be a better candidate for Invisalign as there are no brackets to worry about.
One thing that all patients must keep in mind when deciding on Invisalign treatment is the discipline it takes to consistently wear trays at least 22 hours per day. Traditional braces cannot be removed so if you lack the discipline to comply with Invisalign treatment, traditional braces might be right for you.
Since clear liner therapy is relatively young in the field of orthodontics, there is not a lot of long-term comparative data. Invisalign relies heavily on patient compliance whereas patients that choose traditional braces do not have to worry about remembering to put their trays in and wear them as directed.
Your dentist or orthodontist can help you determine which treatment path is the best option for you. Orthodontia is a big decision so make sure you are fully informed and prepared for treatment before you begin!
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