Although many people prefer the look of Invisalign, many people still choose braces. Traditional braces and Invisalign are two common orthodontic treatments for gradually straightening teeth. It’s difficult to choose between the two methods because they’re FDA-approved and produce amazing results.
When deciding between Invisalign aligners and braces, consider the required level of correction, age, and lifestyle. In this guide, you will learn all the details you need to know about Invisalign and braces.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are orthodontic devices that straighten crooked teeth. Clear aligners or invisible braces, are custom-moulded mouthpieces made of medical-grade plastic that apply pressure to teeth and guide them their proper position. Clear aligners are a good substitute for traditional metal braces.
To decide which is better, shoppers should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both Invisalign and traditional braces. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of clear aligners like Invisalign.
The Advantages of Invisalign
Appearance
Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic and are nearly invisible. Many people prefer transparent aligners to braces because they are more discreet.
Comfort
Braces can cause cuts and discomfort, but clear aligners do not. While teeth repositioning causes some discomfort, the inside of the mouth is largely pain-free with Invisalign.
Ease of Brushing and Flossing
Users of clear aligners can brush and floss normally after removing the mouthpiece. Traditional braces require a lengthy and difficult dental care process.
No Danger With Hard or Chewy Foods
To avoid damage or irritation, brace wearers should avoid hard and chewy foods like nuts, popcorn, and bagels. However, because aligners must be removed before eating, these foods are not avoided.
Fewer Orthodontic Consultations
With aligners, some patients will not need to visit the orthodontist as frequently as they would with braces. While most Invisalign treatments require visits every four to six weeks, some online companies offer clear aligners with no orthodontist visits, though this isn’t the best option for everyone. Customers with braces must visit the office for every adjustment.
The Disadvantages Of Invisalign
Not Recommended For Complex Corrections
Transparent aligners aren’t right for everyone, and they’re usually best for people who only need minor straightening.
Must Remove To Eat
When wearing Invisalign trays, patients may drink water but must remove them when eating or drinking anything other than water. Food easily damages the soft plastic. Furthermore, since the clear plastic stains easily and warps with heat, users should remove the aligners before drinking hot or colourful beverages.
Requires Discipline
The Invisalign aligner must be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. Wearing them less frequently may slow or even harm progress. Clear aligners should only be used by disciplined people to wear them for the required number of hours each day. Another concern, particularly for children, is losing aligners, increasing treatment costs and lengthening treatment time.
More Tooth Brushing
Invisalign aligners should not be worn by people with poor dental hygiene because they can cause bad breath and cavities. Wearers should brush their teeth thoroughly after eating or drinking. Since most people snack throughout the day, brushing time with Invisalign can easily double or triple.
The Advantages of Braces
Braces have remained a popular teeth-straightening option due to their many advantages, but clear aligners have several drawbacks. The benefits and drawbacks of traditional braces are listed below.
Complex Corrections
Braces are a universal treatment that can be used for minor to complex cases. Braces are more powerful than clear aligners because they adhere directly to each tooth, resulting in an amazing smile in even the most difficult situations.
Multiple Choices
While metal braces are the most cost-effective, you can also opt for lingual or ceramic braces for a more discreet appearance. Wearers can achieve excellent results without traditional metal brackets and wires.
Unremovable
Braces cannot be removed without the assistance of an orthodontist, unlike Invisalign aligners. Permanent attachment, on the other hand, necessitates less accountability. It’s not necessary to remove a mouthpiece before eating or keep it in for at least 20 hours every day. This straightforward treatment approach could benefit children, teens, and adults alike.
The Disadvantages Of Braces
Metal braces are inconvenient. They are difficult to adjust to and frequently cause irritation or cuts on the inside of the mouth.
Appearance
Others can see braces, especially traditional metal braces. Lingual and ceramic braces are less noticeable than clear aligners on average.
Food Restrictions
Gum, bagels, hard candy, and popcorn should not be eaten by people wearing braces because they can get stuck in the brackets and damage the brackets or wires. A poor diet can cause problems and necessitate a trip to the orthodontist.
Payment Options and Price
The cost of Invisalign aligners and traditional braces is determined by the level of correction required as well as any delays or complications encountered during the process.
Fortunately, the majority of people do not bear the entire cost. Instead, many dental insurance plans cover a percentage or a set amount of the cost of braces or invisible aligners. However, not all plans cover teeth straightening for adults and some only cover traditional braces.
Choosing The Best Treatment At Croydon
When weighing the pros and cons of orthodontic treatment, there’s a lot to consider. To make your decision easier, decide which advantages and disadvantages are most important to you. Ask questions, most importantly. Make sure you have all of the facts before making a decision.
Contact us at Smile Crew if you have any questions or would like a second opinion.
You can book your dental appointment with us online or get in touch with us at the below-mentioned contact details.
Smile Crew
Address: 111 Maroondah Hwy, Croydon VIC 3136
Phone Number: 03 9723 0703