Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign. What’s The Difference? What’s Best For Me?

The type of orthodontic treatment suitable for you depends mainly on the type of orthodontic problems you need corrected. Be sure to consult with your Wheat Ridge Dentist for recommendations specific to your situation.

Braces are usually made of metal and attached to the outside of the teeth, although there are other options like ceramic brackets and lingual (behind-the-teeth) braces. Metal wires and rubber bands are connected to the brackets and used to manipulate your teeth into the correct positions.

Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners. The aligners are customized for each patient using a 3D scan of their mouth. A series of custom aligners is then made and used to move the teeth in small steps into the correct position.

Following are a few of the advantages of using Invisalign.

Invisalign looks better. One of the most significant benefits is that they are nearly invisible.

Another benefit is that you take the aligners out to eat. This means you do not have to change what you eat or how. For best results, Invisalign must be worn 20 – 22 hours daily. This allows you to take them out while eating and brushing your teeth. Another advantage is that you can continue to brush and floss your teeth normally.

Much of the orthodontist’s work takes place before you wear the aligners. Once you start treatment, you change to the next set of aligners according to the orthodontist’s directions. There is no need to visit the orthodontist for adjustments, so appointments are minimal.

Moving teeth around can be uncomfortable and painful. However, Invisalign has fewer mouth and gum problems because it is made of smooth plastic and fitted to the patient’s mouth, so there are usually no cuts on the inside of the cheeks to deal with.

One disadvantage of Invisalign is that patients need to be disciplined. You must wear them for the required 22 hours a day. The primary reason for Invisalign treatment failing is a patient’s lack of compliance with wearing the aligners.

Also, the aligners must be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. And before replacing your aligners after eating, you need to brush your teeth. Food particles can interfere with your teeth’s movement and can also stain your aligners. You also increase your risk of cavities and bad breath if you do not clean your teeth before putting your aligners in.

Invisalign is not typically recommended for more complex orthodontic cases. You should discuss your options with your orthodontist and ask if you can expect the same results from all methods.

The advantage of traditional braces is that they are more suitable for all cases.

Braces use anchors and wires to move the teeth into the correct position, no matter how complex your case is.

Generally, the treatment time for closing gaps and aligning teeth with braces can be faster than with Invisalign.

The drawbacks to traditional braces are often aesthetic. Some people do not like the way they look on teeth look. Brushing and flossing your teeth is also more difficult with braces. If you don’t clean your teeth properly, plaque can build up around the brackets, causing staining or decay on the teeth.

You must take some care with the type of foods and beverages you consume. Certain foods can break the bracket from the tooth and require a visit to the orthodontist to have it re-cemented to the tooth.

Regular visits to the orthodontist are required with traditional braces to have them adjusted, typically once a month.

Contact your dentist at Primary Dental in Denver, Colorado, to discuss the best option for your dental needs.