Invisalign Vs. Braces
 Today, you have options to straighten your teeth. These options include clear aligners and braces. Choosing the best option can be a bit confusing. Senestraro Family Orthodontics is here to help you understand the differences between your options, as well as the pros and cons of each, to help you decide which option is right for you.
What They Are
Braces are the traditional solution for straightening teeth. Treatment uses brackets and wires to shift your teeth. The brackets are secured to your teeth, and the wires are secured to the brackets with ligatures. The wires are what put pressure on your teeth and guide them into proper alignment.
Aligners use a clear plastic that is molded to fit your teeth. They are placed over your teeth, much like a mouthguard. Your aligners are designed so that they can put pressure on your teeth to guide them to where they need to be.
Fixed Vs Removable Treatments
Braces are fixed to your teeth. At your first appointment, the brackets are secured using dental cement. They remain on your teeth throughout the entire duration of your treatment.
Aligners are removable. You can take them out and put them back in whenever you want. It is recommended, however, that you only remove them when you eat and when you brush your teeth. They should remain in your mouth at all other times. They should be worn no less than 20 hours every day. The aligners also need to be changed every 2 weeks.
What They Can Treat
Braces are one of the most effective orthodontic treatments available. They can treat a broad number of alignment issues from mild to severe.
Invisalign can treat a broad range of orthodontic issues as well. However, they are ideal for mild to moderate issues. They cannot treat more significant issues such as severely rotated teeth, a severe overbite, or a severe underbite.
Aesthetics
Traditional metal braces are very noticeable. While this is not usually an issue for younger patients, older patients do not like the idea of having metal dominate their smile for up to 3 years. There are other types of braces available, including ceramic braces and lingual braces. These options are fixed like traditional braces but are more discreet.
Aligners are made from clear plastic. This makes them the most discreet option available. No one will be able to tell that you are wearing them. This can be an incredible benefit for older teens and adults.
Comfort
When you first get your braces, and after each adjustment, some discomfort is normal. This discomfort typically goes away after a few days. The brackets can also cause irritation on the insides of your lips and cheeks, which can be quite uncomfortable and can also lead to the formation of sores.
Aligners are much more comfortable. The clear plastic is completely smooth. As a result, they will not irritate your intraoral tissues.
Care
Taking care of braces can be a bit of a chore. You may need to alter your diet during your treatment as certain foods can damage brackets or wires. You also need to take extra care when you brush and floss. You need to clean your teeth properly as well as clean around the brackets and under the wires completely to avoid cavities and other issues.
With aligners, you can eat your normal diet as well as brush and floss your teeth like normal. You also need to take care of your aligners as well. Ideally, they should be brushed after each meal before you put them back in. They should also be soaked daily and cleaned thoroughly.
Treatment Time
Treatment times with both traditional braces and aligners will vary. It depends on your situation. Braces typically take anywhere from 1 to 3 years. Aligners take 9 to 15 months on average. Many patients see results in less than a year.
Cost
Traditional metal braces are still one of the most affordable orthodontic treatments available. If you are choosing ceramic braces or lingual braces, treatment does cost more. Aligners also tend to cost more than traditional braces. The total cost of your treatment will vary. During your consultation, we can help to give you a better idea of how much your treatment will take.
If you want to straighten your teeth, but are not sure which option is right for you, we can help. Call Senestraro Family Orthodontics at (503) 925-8899 today to schedule your consultation. |
