Invisalign is one of the hottest options around when it comes to orthodontic treatment, as the aligners allow for realignment in a very discreet manner. However, braces still hold their own when it comes to correcting the most stubborn of misalignment issues. There are several distinctions between these two options, and both can offer certain advantages—so how do you know which to choose? Here’s a look at the respective benefits of each option to help you decide.
A Closer Look at Invisalign
Here’s a breakdown of the clear aligners and some of their benefits:
- Invisalign aligners are removable, which is appealing to many patients since it doesn’t interfere with what they can eat—so long as the aligners are removed beforehand.
- The aligners need to be worn for 22 hours a day; virtually all the time except for meals and when it’s time to brush.
- The trays are transparent and unnoticeable when being worn, unlike metal braces. However, they’re also fragile and can be lost or damaged when they aren’t being worn.
- Invisalign is generally quicker to complete than the process of metal braces, assuming patients comply with treatment guidelines.
- Caring for one’s smile is pretty easy with Invisalign since you simply remove the trays before brushing. However, the trays themselves also need to be kept clean.
A Brief Overview of Braces
Here’s what you should know about traditional metal braces:
- They consist of metal brackets and wires that are affixed to the teeth and are irremovable—but this also means they can’t be misplaced!
- The overall treatment process is often longer than that of Invisalign, but not always—especially since Invisalign can be delayed due to patient negligence.
- Keeping your mouth clean requires nothing out of the ordinary, though sometimes special hygiene tools can prove useful.
- Regular appointments for adjustments are a part of the process, but this also gives your provider oversight of the whole process.
How to Pick the Best Treatment Option for Your Smile
Both of these treatment options offer several unique advantages; however, at the end of the day, the final decision should be made based on the recommendation of your orthodontist—they know best! That said, there are other considerations to be made; for instance, if you’re a patient with minor misalignment issues and you’d like to skip some of the hassles of traditional braces, Invisalign might be the better option. However, if your smile needs some serious work and if you don’t mind the headgear, which has become increasingly more comfortable these days, braces are probably going to be the expected route. If you’re unsure about which option is best for your kid, don’t hesitate to speak with your orthodontist for assistance!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Orthodontics Grafton, we’re excited to provide patients and families in the North Grafton area with a wide array of orthodontic services, including both traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners. If you have any questions about the blog or either of these incredible treatment options, don’t hesitate to visit our website or give us a call today! Telephone: (508) 812-4396.