Braces and Invisalign are two modern methods for adjusting and straightening teeth over time. When considering both options, deciding which tool will produce better results cannot be easy. The decision should be based on your teeth' position, and how much effort should be applied to re-align them. Your choice might also depend on your age, lifestyle, and the condition of your teeth already.
To determine what method will best serve you, it is essential to know the primary differences between braces and Invisalign. There are positives and negatives to each technique, as well as some limitations. Below, we will discuss what to expect from Invisalign and braces and which tool will best suit your teeth.
Invisalign is a company that offers minimal, clear aligners that can be used over time for orthodontic treatment. Invisalign aligners are made of a particular, flexible material that sits snuggly around the teeth and applies enough pressure to shift them. The most significant benefits of these aligners are their discreet appearance, the ability to brush and floss normally, fewer limitations on food, and fewer appointments with your orthodontist.
However, before you are convinced that Invisalign is right for you, consider the following drawbacks. In some cases, Invisalign will not provide enough pressure to reposition your teeth. Invisalign works best for patients who require more minor adjustments to achieve straight teeth. Invisalign must also be worn all the time, except for mealtimes and brushing or flossing. Oral hygiene should be kept up because aligners applied to dirty teeth can cause cavities and bad breath.
Before clear aligners, braces were the only method for shifting and repositioning teeth. Unlike Invisalign, braces apply more pressure to the teeth and are more specific in their approach. This kind of repositioning is perfect for patients whose teeth need more than straightening and will be sure to produce the desired results by the end of your treatment. Although wire braces are more affordable, other forms sit behind the teeth for a less visible appearance. Braces can be less of a responsibility in that they cannot be removed and do not have to be removed when eating or drinking.
While braces are the most effective treatment for complex situations, they require more effort in cleaning around wires and making regular trips to the orthodontist. Discomfort from the pressure of braces will be more pronounced than an aligner, and there will be some food limitations. Any food that has the potential to get caught between the braces and your teeth can cause a problem.
What method will produce the best results for you depends on the work required to shift your teeth. If your teeth need minor straightening, Invisalign is a discreet option that allows you to brush, floss, and eat normally. If your teeth are more complex and require more significant pressure to shift, braces are the preferable option. In terms of price, aligners and braces are priced similarly. However, in some cases, aligners are more expensive. For more information and assistance on braces and aligners, drop by iSmile Dental in Langley or visit your dentist.
