In dentistry, orthodontic braces are used to straighten and properly align your teeth, so your oral health can be optimal and you can experience the joy of flaunting a beautiful smile! However, there are two primary methods in getting a straight, gorgeous smile.
In this article, we will highlight the various features and benefits of Invisalign clear braces compared to traditional, metal braces.
When straightening your teeth with Invisalign clear braces, your dentist will initially take impressions of your teeth and have multiple sets of clear plastic aligners fabricated in a lab, each pair having the teeth gradually more in alignment.
These plastic aligners are worn by the patient for a specified duration in a day to achieve the desired tooth movement. Then, over time, the old aligners are swapped out for a new pair to wear for a number of weeks.
As time progresses, each set of aligners gradually shifts the teeth into a more straight position, and by the time you are on your last retainers, the teeth will have shifted into that near ideal, orthodontic alignment.
On the other hand, traditional braces are the conventional type of braces that straighten the teeth with the help of brackets and bands which are bonded to the teeth. Those brackets are connected to a metallic archwire which helps, in conjunction with bands, create pressure that moves the teeth into a more aligned position.
As a prospective patient, you may find yourself in a dilemma regarding the selection of the type of braces. Your choice can be ruled by a number of factors, such as cost, looks, and comfort.
A comparison drawn below can help you take a better decision on choosing Invisalign clear braces or metal, traditional braces:
| Features | Invisalign | Traditional Braces |
| Appearance | Clear and hence virtually invisible | Metal components tend to spoil the aesthetics of smile. Tooth coloured options are available but the braces are conspicuous. |
| Duration of Treatment | Total period of 6 to 18 months in which the person should wear the aligners for at least 22 hours in a day (varies from one case to other) | About two years of continuous wearing (varies from one case to other) |
| Cost | In a range of $5000 to $8000 | In a range of $3000 to $6500 |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean as it can be taken off and the aligners can be brushed and cleaned comfortably | Be cautious while brushing and can take some good time as the brackets and the teeth surfaces under the archwire needs to be cleaned thoroughly. |
| Follow-up | Visits are scheduled every 2 weeks as a new set of aligners are assigned. | Visits are on a once-in-a-month basis. |
| Benefits |
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| Drawbacks |
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| Not Recommended For |
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The selection of the treatment option also depends on the type of orthodontic problem you have. Hence, your dentist is the right person to guide you at this level.
If the problem can be dealt with either of the two options, then it is absolutely your call. You can set your priorities based on the comparison chart and come out with an appropriate decision.
For instance, if you cannot afford to have a metallic smile owing to your job demands, you can switch to the option of Invisalign. If you hate the idea of taking your aligners out before every meal, you can conveniently opt for traditional braces.
At the end of the day, you and your smile is all that matters!
Are you looking to enhance your smile with braces? Please call Monrovia Family Dentistry to schedule an orthodontic consultation!
