What comes to mind when you think of a straight smile is the debate between braces and Invisalign vs. Traditional braces. Although both types of orthodontic treatment are used to correct dental misalignment, they are not the same in many ways. Knowing these differences will allow you to decide what is probably most suitable for you.
Understanding Traditional Braces
Braces have been the traditional orthodontics for many years. They are metal brackets bonded to the teeth, connected by wires and elastic bands. They make custom aligners specifically for you, and finally, they are designed to move your teeth into their ideal position so that they become simply gorgeous.
Advantages of Traditional Braces:
- Versatility: Effective for treating many different types of dental issues, from a simple tune-up to a complex misalignment.
- No Patient Compliance Needed: They are fixed appliances and offer continuous progress, as they function all the time without patient intervention.
- Aesthetics: The metallic parts are undesirable to people looking for something less noticeable, i.e., the exposed metallic parts.
- Dietary Restrictions: It has the disadvantage of certain foods being able to ruin braces, thus needing dietary adjustments.
- Oral Hygiene Challenges: Flossing around brackets and wires demands careful attention to prevent the accumulation of plaque and possible tooth decay.
Introducing Invisalign
Invisalign is a new orthodontic treatment method. The appliance is a set of individually fabricated, clear plastic aligners that fit closely over the teeth. They change the aligners every 2 weeks with another new set, which will push the teeth step by step into proper alignment.
Advantages of Invisalign:
- Discreet Appearance: The clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them an attractive option for those concerned about aesthetics.
- Removability: Aligners can be taken out during meals and while brushing or flossing, allowing for unrestricted eating habits and simplified oral hygiene.
- Comfort: Made from smooth plastic, they typically cause less irritation to the gums and cheeks compared to metal braces.
Considerations:
- Patient Compliance: To achieve the right result, aligners need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day. Failure to do so will extend treatment.
- Limitations: Not always suitable for severe orthodontic cases.
Treatment Duration
Treatment time is also case dependent. Invisalign treatments take 12 to 18 months, whereas conventional braces may take 18 to 24 months or even longer, depending on the cases of the teeth.
Maintenance and Oral Hygiene
Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. With Invisalign, the ability to remove aligners facilitates regular brushing and flossing, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. In contrast, traditional braces require meticulous cleaning around brackets and wires, often necessitating the right tools like interdental brushes to ensure thorough plaque removal.
If you’re searching for Invisalign near you, consulting a professional orthodontist will help determine if this treatment aligns with your dental goals. A personalized consultation can assess your teeth and guide the right approach for your needs.
Comfort and Lifestyle
Invisalign aligners are crafted from smooth plastic, minimizing discomfort and the likelihood of mouth sores. Their removability means no dietary restrictions, allowing individuals to enjoy their favourite foods without concern. Traditional braces, however, may cause initial discomfort and necessitate avoiding certain hard or sticky foods to prevent damage to the brackets and wires.
Suitability for Different Cases
Traditional braces are versatile and can address a broad spectrum of orthodontic issues, from minor to complex cases. Invisalign is typically recommended for mild to moderate misalignments. A thorough evaluation by an orthodontist is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment option based on individual dental conditions.
Take the First Step Toward A Straighter Smile
Choosing between Invisalign and normal braces relies on several factors, such as the difficulty of your case, the cosmetic element, lifestyle, and willingness to adhere to the treatment process. Consulting with a dental professional is the most useful way to determine the right path for your orthodontic needs.
At Bear Creek Dental, achieving a confident smile starts with the right guidance. If you’re looking for expert dental care, schedule a consultation with a dentist in Grande Prairie today. Take the first step toward a beautifully aligned smile with personalized orthodontic solutions designed just for you!