If you are thinking about straightening your teeth, you might be wondering: should I get braces or Invisalign? You should do your research, ask questions, and make an informed selection with the guidance of your orthodontist. The sort of orthodontic treatment that is right for you is also determined by the type of orthodontic problem you have. Invisalign isn't always the ideal solution for everyone, which is why seeking expert guidance from your Orthodontist is critical. However, if you want to have a better idea of how they work and what are their differences. here are some factors you should consider.
How Do They Work?
Invisalign and braces are both meant to straighten teeth while improving your smile and dental health.
Braces include metal brackets that are glued to your teeth and are held together by wires and small rubber bands. Brackets may now be made to match your enamel color more precisely (making them more discreet), or they can be made in color to create a fashion statement with your mouth.
Invisalign, on the other hand, is made to be nearly invisible. To softly and gently adjust your teeth, you wear clear aligner trays composed of smooth, pleasant, BPA-free clear plastic over your teeth. Your specialist will generate a precise 3-D image of your teeth using X-rays, pictures, and impressions, and then configure your aligner trays accordingly.
Appearance
The most significant difference between braces and Invisalign is their appearance, and Invisalign will always win this category. Invisalign is almost undetectable, while traditional metal braces are more visible. Invisalign trays are made of clear plastic, while braces are made of metal. Some kids love choosing different colored bands for metal braces, but most older teens and adults prefer the Invisalign aesthetic. If you want your teeth' alignment to be as discreet as possible, Invisalign is the way to go.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Whether you wear braces or Invisalign, cleaning your teeth should be a top priority. Cleaning is usually easier with braces because you may brush and floss as usual. If there is food stuck in the metal, you may need to clean it with a smaller brush.
Brushing and flossing are the same with Invisalign, but keeping the trays clean takes a little more effort. You should clean the trays after each meal. You can use warm water to rinse and brush or a special Invisalign cleaning solution. Cleaning the Invisalign trays' crevices might be a headache, especially if you're away from home. But without good cleaning there can be a build-up of bacteria or solid food.
Price
Traditional braces are usually the more economical alternative if treatment costs are an issue. The cost of Invisalign varies based on how many trays are necessary. The number of trays required is determined by the degree of the dental changes required which is determined by your orthodontist. Before making a decision, discuss the cost with your orthodontist to see which orthodontic treatment option is right for you. If you have dental insurance, you might be able to get some or all of the cost of braces or Invisalign covered.
Effectiveness
For years, braces have been used to straighten teeth and improve smiles. Braces are not removable by the patient, thus they must wear them 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as directed by the orthodontist for up to 2-3 years depending on your treatment plan.
Because Invisalign trays are removable, patients may not always adhere to the recommended treatment schedule. Furthermore, if you forget or misplace the trays, they will shift your teeth while you are not wearing them. People who use Invisalign wear the trays for a shorter period than is recommended, which can extend the time it takes to finish treatment.
In circumstances where the teeth are badly misaligned, Invisalign may not be an option depending on the severity, but traditional braces are also more effective in this situation anyways. Teeth that are rotated or overlapped cannot always be straightened using Invisalign as well.
Comfort
Having your teeth straightened isn't always a
pleasant experience. The process of altering the alignment of your teeth, whether you have braces or Invisalign, can be uncomfortable. Invisalign, however, is more comfortable than traditional braces because it places less pressure on the teeth as a whole. Braces can have sharp edges that can cut the inner lip and the tongue, or protruding wires that irritate your cheeks.
If you or your child participates in sports, metal braces can pose a safety risk if they come into touch with another person. People grow accustomed to braces or Invisalign with time and find them to be relatively comfortable.
After the treatment is done, you will need to wear a retainer of some sort (typically just at night) to keep your teeth sturdy in their new position. You risk your teeth reverting to their previous state if you don't do so.
The truth is that the decision between Invisalign and braces boils down to personal preference and the severity of your orthodontic treatment needed. As not every orthodontic case is a candidate for Invisalign it’s important to visit your orthodontist to see which option is best for you. To make the best selection for you or your child, consider the factors listed above. It's also crucial to see an orthodontist see if you're a candidate for Invisalign. Certain circumstances may limit you from receiving this type of treatment.
Don't put off changing your smile and starting to feel more confident. Whatever option you select, maintain good dental hygiene and get in touch with your orthodontist if you have any questions. Contact us today at Orthodontist Kennesaw and one of our dedicated orthodontic specialists will be able to assist you.