Braces have been at the forefront of the teeth-straightening market for decades. But in recent years, another option has climbed its way to the top.
Unlike (highly noticeable) braces, Invisalign aligners are clear so they are far more discreet, making them the top choice for those who wish to straighten their crooked teeth. On top of that, you won’t have to wear your Invisalign products all day either. You can easily remove them for short periods for comfort and convenience.
Invisalign treatment can be more expensive than braces because you are given multiple sets of aligners to use throughout your treatment. Aligners are also custom-made for your teeth, so they fit snuggly and gently move your teeth into a better position.
Both braces and aligners have pros and cons when it comes to straightening teeth, so it’s always best to speak with the Invisalign dentist and research your options to determine suitability and make an informed decision.
Benefits Of Invisalign
If you have crooked teeth, it can (though not always) affect your confidence. It can affect how easily you smile and how self-conscious you feel. If straighter teeth will help improve your quality of life, it’s worth researching how Invisalign aligners work – and the benefits they offer over braces.
Aesthetics
For many, the top benefit is that Invisalign is a practically invisible treatment option. The retainers are clear, helping you avoid the distinctive metal tracks of braces while you are going through your dental treatment.
People who need to maintain their image for work purposes, teens who don’t want to endure the inevitable jokes from peers – in fact, anyone who feels self-conscious – all prefer invisible aligners.
Invisalign is a great way to work on your smile without bringing attention to your dental work.
Removable
A regular complaint about braces is that they are in constant use and affect the foods wearers can eat. Metal braces can also leave a nasty taste in your mouth, especially for those sensitive to metal. This could impact appetite and change the taste of foods and drinks.
With Invisalign, you can remove the retainers to eat so that your dental work doesn’t impact your enjoyment of food and drinks. While it’s recommended that you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day, you also have the freedom to remove them at convenient times throughout the day.
Your Mouth Feels Cleaner
Braces can catch bits of food, that can be difficult to remove if it’s lodged in there. Brushing takes more work, and flossing is incredibly difficult. However, you can remove your Invisalign retainers to brush your teeth, helping you stay on top of your oral cleanliness without added hassles.
Fewer Dentist Visits
With braces, you need to regularly visit your dental clinic for adjustments. But with Invisalign, the adjustments are all taken care of before you get your retainers.
Invisalign works by giving you multiple sets of retainers that get you closer to straightened teeth with each set change. You use them in order at defined intervals, which your dentist will discuss with you. This will save you the cost of extra visits to the dentist and will save you time too.
You will still be required to visit your dentist for check-ups to ensure your Invisalign treatment is on the right track, but these will be kept to a minimum.
Comfort
On-going dental treatments of any kind can leave you feeling some oral discomfort. While Invisalign is no different, the issues are less severe than those caused by braces. Your aligners are custom-made for the shape of your mouth, teeth, and gums so they fit more snuggly. They’re also made of smooth plastic that enhances the comfort level. Braces, on the other hand, have been known to cause cuts inside wearers’ cheeks and need a regular salt wash to reduce the inflammation and irritation that braces can cause.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Right for You?
Lifestyle and personality factors can influence whether or not you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. If you’re likely to forget to put your retainer back in your mouth after a meal – or even lose it – then it might be best to opt for braces. Invisalign only works if you strictly follow the instructions including hours of wear each day and switching to the next set on time.
If you require complex treatment, it may be that aligners can’t be made to your specifications. It’s always best to discuss your particular needs with your dentist so you know the best options for your unique circumstances.
Would you like more information on the differences between Invisalign treatment and braces? Or whether or not you would be a suitable candidate for aligners? See the Invisalign and braces comparison chart here.
Call the experts at My Family Dental for friendly, advice so you can make an informed decision about your dental treatments.
