Invisalign® vs. Braces
By Robert Nay Ortho
In
Cosmetic Dentistry
July 27, 2018
If you want straighter teeth, should you choose traditional metal braces or plastic dental aligners such as Invisalign? Before you choose, it’s important to research what benefits are available for each treatment and which is best suited to meet your expectations. Consider the following about your choices for orthodontic care:
Do you Have Mild, Moderate, or Severe Dental Alignment Issues?
Some of the most common issues patients experience, such as crowding and gaps between teeth, can be corrected by either metal braces or clear aligners. However, patients who qualify for Invisalign often don’t want the added inconvenience of metal appliances and end up choosing clear dental aligners instead.
However, if your dental issues are severe, such as having a misaligned bite, traditional braces are the most predictable way to achieve results. Metal brackets and wires create the necessary force to move jaw arches into position, allowing patients all the benefits of comfortable dental function.
Are You Concerned about Appearances?
There are options available to make metal braces more natural looking than what you would traditionally expect, but metal brackets and wires stand out more than smooth plastic aligners. Patients who are concerned about what they will look like personally and professionally with metal braces lean toward discreet Invisalign. These cosmetic aligners are popular with teens and adults.
Younger patients, however, are excited to get their metal braces, as many of their friends already have them, and orthodontics are almost a right of passage at a certain age group; they are common and expected, which helps patients feel more confident about wearing them.
Can You Make the Appropriate Accommodations for Clear Braces?
Many patients incorrectly believe that metal braces are harder to take care of than Invisalign, but they take for granted the fact that metal braces are bonded in place; you can’t misplace traditional braces. While you will need to avoid certain goods to prevent damaging the appliances or dissolving the glue underneath the brackets, braces are fairly easy to care for.
Invisalign does require a few more considerations that traditional appliances do not. Patients must be sure to take their aligners out before eating and to thoroughly brush their teeth after a meal. Any debris stuck between teeth and aligners will sit in place, which increases the likelihood of gum inflammation and cavities. If you are not prepared to comprehensively care for your smile with Invisalign and make sure the aligners aren’t misplaced when you take them out, you may want to consider the advantages of metal braces.
Which Should You Choose?
The best way to determine which kind of orthodontics is right for you is to call Dr. Robert Nay for more information. During your consultation, Dr. Nay and his team can help you decide which treatment will best match your lifestyle and goals.