If you are thinking about straightening your teeth, you might be wondering which method you should choose – good old braces, or you can try something innovative such as Invisalign?
Which one is more effective? Which one will cost me more? In the end, you want to choose the treatment that will do the job properly in the long run, regardless of the price. You don’t want to have to fix your teeth again after the treatment, so you must carefully choose the right method.
The right answer will be provided by your orthodontists. He is the most important part of your smile transformation. An experienced orthodontist will carefully supervise your teeth and recommend adequate treatment to ensure the best results.
Braces vs. Invisalign
Both braces and Invisalign are orthodontics that will help you straighten teeth and improve your smile and oral health.
Braces are an original form of orthodontic treatment, and they are used for centuries. They are made of thin metal brackets that are glued to your teeth and tied together by wires and tiny rubber bands.
Braces shift your teeth effectively, using brackets that are bonded to each tooth and connected by a metal wire. Each bracket carefully moves each tooth into its correct position. This process is carefully monitored by the orthodontist, so regular visits are a must. There are a few different types of braces: metal, ceramic, and lingual braces.
Luckily now you can get brackets to match your enamel color so they will be more discrete. Or, if you do not mind having them on display, you can get them in color and make a statement.
Invisalign is a new method, and it still does not have a history, such as braces. It is designed to be invisible. Aligners are made of smooth, comfortable, BPA-free clear plastic. They are worn over your teeth, and they gently move them in the right direction.
Invisalign aligners are barely noticeable, but they still provide effective treatment and long-lasting results. In certain cases, Invisalign may even be more effective than braces, considering the all-around force of the aligners across the whole tooth.
Your orthodontist will use X-rays and pictures to create a precise 3D image of your teeth and adapt aligners to your teeth correctly for the best results.
What are the main differences?
Treatment length is one of the main differences. Braces must be worn from 1 up to 3 years depending on the individual case, while Invisalign can do the same job a bit shorter from 6 months up to 2 years.
Braces can’t be removed; they are on your teeth 24/7 during the whole treatment, whereas Invisalign aligners are removable. You should wear them around 22 hrs per day and remove them when it comes to mealtime.
Invisalign must be regularly soaked and cleaned before putting them back. When you wear braces, you must avoid certain foods since they can damage or get stuck between the wires.
Braces require a regular monthly check-up by your orthodontist. Invisalign aligners require an orthodontist visit every three months.
What are the benefits of both treatments?
Braces treatment:
- Effective for correcting severe and complex cases
- Less expensive
- Permanent bonding provide consistent progress
- Versatile types of braces
- Reliable
Invisalign treatment:
- Discreet and suitable for working adults
- Removable and easy to take care of
- No food restrictions
- Comfortable to wear
- Whitening teeth
What are the downsides of both treatments?
Braces treatment:
- Difficult to clean and maintain
- Can cause irritation in your mouth since they can be very uncomfortable
- Noticeable metal appliance not suitable for working adults that need to maintain a professional look
- Food restrictions
- Can trap bacteria
Invisalign treatment:
- You must remember to wear aligners 22 hours a day
- Must be removed before eating and drinking anything but water
- Aligners can stain
- Easily broken, damaged, or lost
- May require supplemental braces treatment if the misalignment is more severe
- Expensive
The Winner Is
Both braces and Invisalign are excellent choices to achieve a healthy and perfect smile. Each method offers specific advantages; however, they both offer reliable, precision movement of your teeth, which will significantly improve your bite.
Whichever treatment you choose, remember that booth orthotics must be placed and supervised by your experienced orthodontist.
Before making any decision, schedule a consultation with your orthodontist and discuss your diagnosis and possible treatments. Straightening your teeth to enhance your smile and oral health should not be taken lightly, and in some cases, Invisalign is not even an option.
