Orthodontic problems can undermine your confidence and cause you to feel badly about your appearance. Aesthetics aside, having severely overcrowded or crooked teeth can affect your ability to properly brush and floss your teeth. This can, in turn, cause problems with gingivitis and even gum disease. Orthodontic treatment is necessary to help straighten and realign your smile. It’s suitable for patients of all ages, from children up to adults. There are key differences between Invisalign treatment and traditional braces, and understanding these differences can help you decide which option is right for you.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a system of clear trays, called aligners. These aligners are relatively flexible, but they work to gently apply pressure to the teeth to shift them into alignment. Invisalign is removable, so you’ll take them out when you brush your teeth, floss and any time you eat. Otherwise, the aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours every day. The treatment process involves regular orthodontic appointments that require more impressions to be made. These impressions, or molds, are used to create the aligners that you’ll wear throughout the course of treatment. You’ll go through many aligners by the time you’re done with Invisalign.
What are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces have been around for years and they involve a system of brackets and wires. The brackets are attached to each individual tooth and the wire is attached to these brackets. The wires are responsible for pulling or pushing teeth into alignment over the course of about one to three years. Traditional braces can sometimes be uncomfortable because they are metal and use aggressive pressure to realign a patient’s smile. It’s not uncommon for patients to need orthodontic wax to protect soft tissue in the mouth from cuts, sores and bruising.
What's the Difference Between Invisalign & Traditional Braces?
Invisalign is completely clear, so no one will really know you’re wearing them but you and the dental team. Likewise, they are removable so that you get a more thorough and effective clean. Traditional braces are not removable, so you’ll need to adjust your hygiene tools and habits around the wiring and brackets. Invisalign tends to take less time to straighten teeth than traditional braces. Invisalign is more suited for teens and adults who can commit to actually wearing the aligners each day. Traditional braces may be more suitable for younger children who have severe orthodontic problems. Both treatment options are effective at helping to realign and correct smile issues, but Invisalign is far superior in that it’s more comfortable and easier to wear.
Looking for an Invisalign Provider Near You?
If you are interested in Invisalign and other orthodontic options, we can help! At Stellar Dentistry, we are committed to working alongside you to find the right treatment option for you. If you would like to learn more about your orthodontic options or are interested in scheduling a consultation with Dr. Z, please call our dental office in Reynoldsburg, OH today!