If you have been thinking about orthodontic treatment to get a healthier, straighter smile, you probably are weighing between Invisalign and traditional braces. Both are effective and work, but they will give you different benefits considering lifestyle, needs, or goals. Here’s how each works to help decide which one is right for you.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic solution made of modern times, applying a series of clear and removable aligners to gently shift the teeth into place. Every set of aligners is made individually and should be worn for nearly about two weeks before moving to the next set. Among its advantages, Invisalign is preferred because of its almost invisible appearance as well as convenience in removal for eating, brushing, and special occasions.
Pros of Invisalign
• Almost Invisible: Invisalign aligners are transparent and nearly invisible, making them a first choice for teenagers and adults who want to have an inconspicuous option.
• Removable: You can remove them for meals, brushing, flossing, and events, so you can be more flexible in your daily activities.
• Comfortable: Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic and usually cause less irritation to the gums and cheeks compared to metal brackets.
• Easier Oral Hygiene: Since you remove the aligners to brush and floss, it is easier to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid plaque buildup.
Cons of Invisalign:
• Discipline Required: Invisalign aligners have to be worn 20-22 hours per day for effective results. Missing aligners or not wearing them long enough can extend treatment.
• Only Sufficient for Simple Cases: Invisalign works perfectly for slight to moderate malposition, but cannot be used in extreme cases like complex bite problems or serious tooth rotation.
• Cost: Sometimes, Invisalign costs more than the traditional orthodontic treatment, considering the complexity and time it will take.
Traditional Braces
The traditional braces are made of metal or ceramic brackets attached to the teeth and connected by a wire. This system applies gradual pressure to move the teeth into correct positions. Braces are fixed in place and adjusted periodically by an orthodontist to achieve desired alignment.
Pros of Traditional Braces:
Versatile for Complex Cases: These orthodontic braces come in handy for all problems of orthodontics and include bad bites, rotations of teeth, and over-extended misalignment, with precision control over their movement.
No Need to be Disciplined Since they are bonded or cemented in place, then there is no chance for forgetting to wear braces in the way one would easily forget to wear removable and clear aligners. Easy for young patients who could easily forget to wear such aligners.
• Variety: Braces are nowadays made of metal, ceramics, and even clear forms. Some, like ceramic braces, mix with the color of teeth, thus not seen that much.
Disadvantages of Traditional Braces
• Visibility: Braces are more visible than Invisalign. This would be a problem for the adults or teenagers who hate a more conspicuous option.
• Discomfort and Adjustments: Some say that braces are sometimes uncomfortable, especially after tightening and may irritate the mouth’s inner lining.
• Oral Hygiene Challenges: There is a great challenge for brushing and flossing with braces. Food chunks easily get lodged around the brackets and the wires of the braces and can develop plaque if it is not cleaned properly.
Key Variations Between Invisalign and Traditional Orthodontics
1. Aesthetic Appealingness: Invisalign orthodontic systems are see-through and aesthetic, while conventional orthodontics are conspicuous, ceramic orthodontics also exist for better aesthetics.
2. Length of treatment: Invisalign and braces take few months to couple of years; Invisalign is comparatively shorter for mild to moderate cases of misalignment, while in the case of complex alignments, braces need longer duration.
3. Degree of comfort: Invisalign aligners are plastic and smooth, and consequently, there is less risk of irritating the gums or cheeks. Braces generally cause more discomfort due to metal brackets and wires.
4. Lifestyle Impact: With Invisalign, one can be flexible because one can take off the aligners during eating, meaning no food restrictions at all. Patients under braces have to avoid some food items, such as hard candies and sticky snacks, which will damage the brackets and the wires.
5. Cost: The costs are roughly comparable between Invisalign and braces; though, with the complexity of cases involved, it makes the latter a bit more justifiable at times in terms of cost. Both procedures fall under most insurance plans so check with your provider
Which one will suit you?
Some aspects will influence whether you use Invisalign or braces:
• Issue Severity: Braces can be applied more effectively to severe cases, while Invisalign is best for patients who have mild to moderate misalignment problems.
• Lifestyle and Discipline: Invisalign is best suited if you want something discreet and are disciplined enough to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day. But if you want a treatment that doesn’t require you to keep it in daily, then traditional braces might be more suitable.
• Cosmetic Preferences: For someone who likes to have a discreet appearance, Invisalign or ceramic braces are the best options. Teens and adults who would be embarrassed to wear metal braces often prefer Invisalign.
• Cost: Discuss your options with your Dentist/Orthodontist regarding the cost of each treatment. Many offices will work with you to come up with a payment plan that fits your budget.
Conclusion
Invisalign and conventional braces each have their benefits and can give you that beautiful smile. Consider your lifestyle, alignment needs, and preferences, and consult with an Dentist/Orthodontist to determine the best choice for you. Whichever path you choose, the end result will be a healthier, straighter smile. At Delacombe Family Dental, we’re here to help you make the right decision for your orthodontic journey. Schedule a consultation with us to learn more about the best options for your smile!
To arrange a consultation with our family and cosmetic dentist in Ballarat, or for any other enquiries, please drop us a line or give us a call at (03) 5312 7815. We proudly serve patients from Alfredton, Lucas, Sebastopol, Wendouree and beyond at our Ballarat dental group.
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