It's a tough decision to make when you're looking to align your teeth, but aren't sure of which route to go when weighing the advantages and disadvantages of braces and Invisalign. It is essential to conduct thorough research, ask questions, and, with the guidance of your dentist, make an informed decision. The kind of treatment that's right for you will depend on the orthodontic issue you want to correct. Invisalign isn't always the most effective treatment for certain patients. This is the reason for getting advice from an orthodontist.
In this article, we outline the advantages and disadvantages of braces and Invisalign to help you make an informed decision.
BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN:
There are many benefits to using Invisalign clear aligners for orthodontic treatment compared to traditional braces. This includes:
1. DISTINCT APPEARANCE:
The most significant benefit of Invisalign is its subtle appearance, as the aligners are constructed of transparent plastic. They also have a comfortable fit over your teeth, which allows them to be virtually undetectable. This can be particularly attractive to people who are embarrassed to wear metal braces, as they stand out against white teeth and slant outward.
2. REMOVABLE ALIGNERS:
A further benefit to Invisalign is that the aligners can be removed to eat or brush, and floss. This allows you to maintain healthy dental hygiene throughout treatment. It will also allow more flexibility in your eating habits.
3. THEY ARE COMFORTABLE:
Invisalign aligners are made of a soft, comfortable plastic that is less likely to irritate the cheeks and gums than traditional metal braces. The trays are customized to fit your teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit every time.
4. FEWER OFFICE VISITS:
Invisalign generally requires fewer office visits than traditional braces since there is no adjustment to wires and brackets. Instead, patients are provided with new aligners every couple of weeks.
4. THE PRECISION:
Invisalign utilizes advanced computer technology to create a precise treatment plan tailored to each patient's individual needs. This could result in a more efficient dental treatment process.
THE BENEFITS OF BRACES:
Braces have been a standard teeth straightening device due to the numerous advantages. However, a variety of negatives force people to think about clear aligners. Here's a look at the advantages and disadvantages of traditional braces.
1. WORKS FOR COMPLEX CORRECTIONS:
Braces are a universal solution suitable for all challenging cases. Since they attach directly to every tooth, they are stronger than clear aligners, resulting in a stunning smile even in the most difficult circumstances.
2. MULTIPLE OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM:
Metal braces are the most affordable choice; however, you can also opt for the behind-the-teeth (lingual) as well as ceramic braces for a discreet appearance. In the absence of traditional metal wires and brackets, users are able to achieve great results.
3. NOT EASILY REMOVED:
Contrary to Invisalign aligners, patients are unable to remove braces without the assistance of an orthodontist. However, the permanent attachment carries less commitment. It's not necessary to remove the mouthpiece before eating or to ensure that it's kept in place for at least a day. Children, teenagers, and even adults may benefit from this simple treatment method.
4. SAFE TO DRINK ALL BEVERAGES:
Braces aren't stained and are also heat-resistant, and allow wearers to drink coffee, tea, or any other beverage throughout the day without the stress of having to take out aligners and possibly stain attachments.
THE DRAWBACKS OF CLEAR ALIGNERS:
1. NOT FOR COMPLEX CORRECTIONS:
Transparent aligners are not suitable for every circumstance and are typically best suited for individuals who only require slight straightening.
2. MUST REMOVE TO EAT:
Patients can consume water while wearing Invisalign trays, but must remove them before taking a drink or eating anything else aside from water.
The plastic is flexible and can be easily damaged by food items. In addition, the clear plastic can easily stain and warp with heat, which is why it is recommended to remove the aligners after drinking hot or brightly colored beverages.
3. REQUIRE DISCIPLINE:
The wearer should be wearing the Invisalign aligner for at least twenty to two hours per day. If they are worn less frequently, it could delay progress, or worse, harm the outcome. Because it's so easy to remove them from your body, only those who can be disciplined enough to wear them for the appropriate amount of time each day must opt for clear aligners.
Another issue, especially for children, is the possibility of losing aligners, which costs more money and can prolong the time for treatment.
4. MORE TOOTH BRUSHING:
People with poor dental hygiene should avoid wearing an Invisalign aligner since this could result in bad breath and dental cavities. After drinking or eating, Invisalign wearers should brush their teeth thoroughly with a regular toothbrush.
Since most people eat snacks all day long, the daily brushing can be doubled or tripled in the case of Invisalign.
5. MAY REQUIRE VISIBLE ATTACHMENTS:
Some patients require tiny tooth attachments that attach to clear aligners, similar to buttons. These attachments aid in controlling the movement of teeth and are connected and removed by an orthodontist.
This means that patients who require attachments might require more consultations than other users, as the attachments can be seen through transparent plastic.
THE DRAWBACKS OF BRACES:
1. MOUTH DISCOMFORT:
Metal braces aren't very comfortable. They require time to adjust to and can irritate or even cut on the inside of the mouth.
2. APPEARANCE:
Braces, particularly traditional metal braces, are readily noticeable to people around you. Ceramic and lingual braces are less noticeable. Braces are generally less noticeable, but they're more visible than clear aligners.
3. FOOD LIMITATION:
Patients with braces should avoid eating certain foods, such as bagels, gum, popcorn, and candy, which could become stuck between the brackets or damage the wires or brackets. Unhealthy food choices can cause harm and lead to dental issues.
4. FREQUENT ORTHODONTIST VISITS:
While some users of invisible aligners can control everything from a remote, Braces require regular orthodontist appointments.
5. CAN LEAVE STRAINS:
Since brackets made of metal stay in position for an average of 2 years, people might notice a change in their tooth color following removal. The good news is that most people can fix discoloration of their teeth by maintaining a regular brushing routine and bleaching their teeth following treatment.
TREATMENT TIMELINE AND EFFECTIVENESS:
The length of Invisalign orthodontic treatment varies based on the individual's dental needs.
Invisalign(r) treatments are reputed to be more efficient than traditional braces, specifically for less complicated or minor adjustments. The process of minor Invisalign can be completed in up to three months. However, the more advanced treatments typically range from 12 to 18 months.
Braces are able to address the most complex issues associated with orthodontics. They use the traditional method of gradually moving teeth into the proper place using wires and brackets.
This could result in more time for treatment than Invisalign(r), based on the degree of severity and complexity of the issue. The average time to wear braces ranges from 1 and 2 years. If you want to straighten your smile, schedule your consultation with us today and enjoy the best dental care in Canada cost-effectively.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are appealing and comfortable options for straightening teeth. But for those who require extreme correction or children who lack the discipline to wear an aligner for more than 20 hours per day, traditional braces are a better alternative.
Dental insurance can help reduce expenses, and clear aligners at home can be another option for cost savings. If you are deciding between these methods to straighten your teeth, consult with a dentist to determine which option works better for you: braces or aligners.