Pros and Cons of Using Invisalign or Braces
Has your dentist recommended orthodontic work for you or your loved one? There are many options for you to choose from. The two most common methods of fixing crooked teeth are Invisalign and traditional braces. Both options bring different challenges and benefits.
Depending on your preferences and lifestyle, your dentist may offer either Invisalign or traditional braces. This list of pros and cons of Invisalign and Braces will help you formulate your decision. Straightening your smile is an important step in life and should be taken seriously.
Metal Braces Pros
Metal or ceramic braces are the long standing remedy for orthodontic problems such as overbite, crossbite, and underbite. Metal or ceramic braces can effectively manage complicated conditions such as rotating a misplaced molar or canine. If you desire a straight smile sooner, braces guide each tooth into its correct placement faster than Invisalign. Each month the orthodontist examines and readjusts the braces to ensure that tooth movement progresses properly. Because the orthodontist glues each braces on the surface of each tooth, there is less risk of losing or forgetting to put them in.
Metal Braces Cons
However, braces are often uncomfortable. The sharp bits of metal can create discomfort for the patient and may lead to minor bleeding. In the first few months after treatment, the glue used to place the brackets may leave a stain or discoloration on the surface of the tooth, marring the smile. Metal braces require careful monitoring of food intake to avoid damage or excessive plaque buildup. In addition, during treatment, the braces may cause chipping that may require further dental work. Although very effective, metal or ceramic braces are more obvious with large silver brackets that are cemented on the front of the tooth.
Invisalign Pros
Invisalign is uses clear aligners molded to your specific tooth alignment to transition your teeth into the correct position. Invisalign offers many benefits over braces. Invisalign discreetly provides the orthodontic treatment you need with a clear mold. Unlike braces, Invisalign can be removed whenever you need to eat or sleep. Invisalign is often cheaper costing around five thousand dollars for treatment. With a clear and smooth polymer mold, Invisalign does not irritate the gums with sharp metal pieces. Because Invisalign comes as a single unit, there are no eating restrictions and issues with trapped meal particles.
Invisalign Cons
Invisalign is an excellent option for persons who are responsible and can manage remembering to keep Invisalign in for at least twenty-two hours. If it is not kept in the mouth for at least twenty-two hours, your teeth do not straighten as quickly. Invisalign does not treat complicated issues such as molar, canine, and or premolar rotation. In addition, Invisalign requires more frequent follow ups to ensure that your teeth move into correct position. This can become far more costly and time consuming than the once a month visit to the orthodontist for braces.
It is important that you consult with your dentist before choosing Invisalign or traditional braces so you can have the most effective treatment. Only a skilled practitioner can assess your teeth and determine the best course of action.