If you have misaligned teeth, you may be considering orthodontic treatment. That is a wise decision. Straightening crooked teeth will benefit your long-term oral health and may even give you a confidence boost. Still, even after you decide to receive orthodontic treatment, you have an important choice to make: will you opt for Invisalign or traditional metal braces? In this blog post, we will discuss both treatments so you can gain a better idea of which one may be the right choice for you.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners to apply gentle pressure to the teeth. Over time, that pressure moves the teeth into their proper positions. You just have to wear each aligner for approximately two weeks before moving onto the next one in the series. They are also removable, which means that you will not have to make any major adjustments to your eating and oral hygiene habits.
What Are Braces?
In traditional metal braces, a series of brackets get bonded directly onto the teeth. The brackets hold a thin wire in place. Together, the brackets and wire apply pressure to the teeth to gradually move them into their correct places. The braces get tightened at periodic appointments to ensure they continue to apply the right amount of pressure. Metal braces have been around for generations, and they have a proven track record of success.
Am I a Candidate for Invisalign or Braces?
Many people with orthodontic issues are a candidate for either treatment. However, Invisalign may not be able to correct cases of severe misalignment; it is often the best choice for mild to moderate problems. Also, while braces can be used to treat patients of practically any age, only teenagers and adults are viable candidates for Invisalign.
When you visit your dentist to talk about your treatment options, they will evaluate your oral health and let you know whether you are a candidate for braces, Invisalign, or both.
Which Should I Choose?
If your dentist tells you that either Invisalign or braces would work for you, which one are you going to select? Most people choose Invisalign because it offers a number of advantages over braces:
- Comfort. There are no metal brackets and wires that may irritate the soft tissues in the mouth.
- Discretion. Invisalign is much less noticeable than metal braces.
- Tracking. Invisalign aligners for teens have a blue compliance dot that helps parents and dental professionals monitor the treatment.
- Hygiene. Oral hygiene is simple with Invisalign. With traditional braces, it can be challenging to brush and floss around the brackets and wires.
It would be incorrect to say that either braces or Invisalign are the “better” option. However, one or the other may be better for you. Talk to your dentist to learn more about these teeth-straightening treatments.
About the Author
Dr. Geraldine Schneider is a general dentist with almost 40 years of experience in her field. She works alongside other talented professionals to provide a broad range of treatments, including Invisalign, to patients in the Auburn area. If you would like to speak to her about how you can achieve straighter teeth, contact Willow Run Dental Association at 207-783-0261.