When it comes to correcting misaligned teeth, one of two orthodontic options will be offered – metal Traditional braces and Invisalign. Whilst most people are familiar with metal Traditional braces, Invisalign is a much newer and more discrete option which many adults prefer. Both methods are effective at fixing teeth which aren’t straight, but it’s important to know the difference between the two methods and follow your dentist’s advice. In this blog post, we will be sharing some further insight into orthodontic treatments to help you make an informed decision.
What’s the difference between Invisalign and Traditional Braces?
Braces are typically made of metal or ceramic. They are clearly visible, consisting of brackets, arch wires and elastic ties and being attached to the surface of the teeth. Fitting braces typically takes around 1-2 hours, and patients must make regular appointments every 3-10 weeks for maintenance and adjustment.
Braces are ideal for conditions including:
- Crowding
- Misalignment of teeth
- Crooked Impacted teeth
- Irregular spacing
- Correcting protruding teeth
Invisalign is a treatment that has been offered since 1999, and it consists of two clear plastic aligners which are worn on the upper and lower sets of teeth. During an Invisalign consultation, your dentist will take X-rays and 3D scans of your teeth before creating your custom aligners (your aligners can be created). As the aligners are clear, this makes Invisalign a much more discrete alternative to braces.
Invisalign is ideal for conditions including:
- Widely spaced teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overbite
- Crossbite
- Simple bite irregularities
Deciding Between Braces and Invisalign
Two of the main issues people have with braces are that they are highly visible and permanently fixed to the teeth & (inconvenience with daily brushing or flossing).
Invisalign clear aligners on the other hand can be removed when necessary, such as when eating and brushing. It is important that your aligners are worn as much as possible, with a minimum of 22 hours a day needed to achieve effective results. For many people this is a benefit, as it enables them to eat a varied diet and colleagues, friends and family will be unlikely to notice that they are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Those who opt for braces will need to visit the dentist every 3-10 weeks for maintenance and adjustment, whereas for Invisalign you will need to pick up (3) new sets of aligners every (6) weeks.
Ultimately, you will need to weigh up the pros and cons of each treatment and rely on and follow the advice of your dentist. Braces have long been favoured by dentists when treating complex orthodontic issues. They are effective, affordable and can work faster than Invisalign at closing gaps and aligning teeth. For less serious issues, Invisalign is a less noticeable, removable, comfortable and effective alternative that is particularly appealing for adults. Keep in mind that Invisalign will be slightly more expensive, and treatment may take slightly longer.
Correct Your Smile – Book a Consultation at Glowing Smiles Dental Today
Both braces and Invisalign can help you regain confidence in your smile, and the team at Glowing Smiles Dental would love to help find the best solution for you. We invite you to book a consultation at either our Narre Warren or Doncaster East dental clinics, and we look forward to seeing you soon.
