Teeth are a critical part of our oral space despite being hidden behind the lips. They are responsible for the chewing mechanism, talking ability, and really, they contribute to the most attractive smiles.
If you’ve been looking into the mirror admiring your facial appearance, but your crooked teeth keep deterring from your smile, it’s time to take action and have a closer look at two of your top options: Invisalign and braces.
While both orthodontic appliances are effective in straightening teeth, it’s important to educate yourself on each to help you make an informed decision as to which is right for you and your teeth.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Let’s compare the basics
Invisalign. These are clear aligners made from BPA-free clear plastic and fitted over your teeth to slowly re-align them into desired positions. Your dentist will take exact impressions of your teeth and use the images to configure your trays.
Dental braces come in two main options: clear and metal. They consist of brackets that are glued to your teeth and interconnected using wires and tiny rubber bands. While metal dental bracing is visible, clear dental braces are designed to remain less visible compared to the former.
The top 6 factors to consider when choosing between Invisalign and braces.
Appearance
This is probably the most prominent reason why many patients opt for Invisalign over braces. R+R Dental recommends Invisalign for self-conscious individuals who prefer their dental treatments to remain anonymous. Fortunately, clear braces offer almost the same level of invisibility.
Of course, metal braces remain visible throughout treatment, although modern options are less bulky.
Adjustments
Your dentist will require you to change your aligners every one to two weeks as your teeth continue adjusting to new positions. You will also need to visit your dental clinic every six weeks with the orthodontist to monitor your progress.
On the other hand, braces require frequent adjustments of about three to four weeks, where the orthodontist tightens the wires and bands to accommodate movement.
Permanency Status
Invisalign is a removable orthodontic appliance that you are supposed to fit on to your teeth at least 22 hours a day minimum for the best and quickest results. You may snap out your aligners when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
On the other hand, braces are permanent, at least throughout the treatment period. Dental bracing will remain intact 24/7, even when eating, brushing, and flossing. For some, this aspect might make braces less desirable compared to the aligners.
Outcomes
We actually have a tie when it comes to outcomes. Both braces and Invisalign are effective straightening methods for crooked teeth, though occasionally, aligners are believed to yield results faster.
Nonetheless, the expected time period required to yield results from each of the methods mainly depends on the severity of misalignment in teeth. Your dentist is going to be the ideal person to examine your teeth’s condition and advise best on the orthodontic treatment that is right for you.
Comfort
A majority of patients report dental bracing to be painful and uncomfortable for the first few days after installation. Metal braces are notorious for leaving cuts and sores on the cheeks’ inner sides immediately after treatment before your oral space adjusts to the new positioning.
On the other hand, Invisalign is made of a smooth and special plastic that sits on the teeth, leaving no cuts or sores on the cheeks’ inner sides.
Unfortunately, both braces and aligners are going to come with some level of discomfort caused by teeth moving into place, but keep in mind it subsides with time as the teeth adjust into position.
Lifestyle Changes
As earlier discussed, Invisalign allows you to snap them out when eating and drinking. You don’t have to forego some types of food to preserve your aligners’ integrity. You won’t have to change your dietary plans to accommodate the orthodontic treatment. However, your dentist will strictly instruct you to snap them out when eating and drinking to avoid staining them.
Unlike Invisalign, braces do require you to change your diet and switch to soft foods that don’t destroy the wires and brackets. With the latter, you are advised to avoid crunchy, sticky, and hard foods.
Which will be your ultimate solution?
It’s all up to you. If you need more information to help you choose which of the two orthodontic solutions best suits you, reach us at R+R Dental in Hicksville, NY, to talk to an orthodontist who will help you get the solution you need.
