If you're considering orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth, undeniably, the two most common options you might have across are traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners. While those two kinds of treatment basically work tremendously in straightening a misaligned, crooked, or spaced-out set of teeth, there are some key differences that may have an effect on the decision at hand.
Probably among the biggest decisions someone could make, though, is between braces and Invisalign; what is appropriate will depend upon your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Different treatment options will be discussed here, including the associated pros and cons, so as to give a general overview that can lead toward making an informed decision regarding the best choice.
Traditional Braces
Braces are the time-tested, traditional orthodontic
appliances that have been used for straightening teeth for several decades.
They entail metal/ceramic brackets attached to each tooth, connected through a
wire threaded through the brackets that slowly pull the teeth into alignment.
Pros of Traditional Braces:
Most effective for complex orthodontic problems:
They treat even the worst cases of misalignment crowding
and problems in bites. They bear the strength through which they can correctly
set the teeth.
Less treatment time:
The average time duration for treatment using traditional
braces is 12-24 months which is normally less than the time taken by
Invisalign, 18-36 months.
More affordable:
Braces come more cheaply as compared to Invisalign; hence,
they can be termed more pocket-friendly.
Not required to be removed for eating purposes:
Unlike removable Invisalign aligners, you don't have to
remove the braces while eating; hence, eliminating the chances of misplacing or
losing them.
Disadvantages of Traditional Braces:
Less comfortable:
Metal braces rub on the inside of the mouth; this can be
quite painful for some days after being fitted and after tightening.
Difficulty in oral hygiene:
flossing and brushing around metal brackets and wires are
quite challenging. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease where
good oral hygiene practices are not adhered to.
Dietary restriction
You will be asked to avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods.
These foods can break the brace or stick to them.
More noticeable appearance:
You can hardly deny that traditional metal braces are more
noticeable in your mouth than invisible aligners.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign is a comparatively new orthodontic treatment for
teeth straightening. It makes use of a series of nearly invisible clear
aligners. These removable plastic trays move teeth progressively to their
proper place. Each set of the aligners is worn for 2 weeks before graduating to
the next set.
Some Pros Of This System Include:
Virtually invisible:
The plastic aligners are transparent; hence, nearly
invisible in your smile. This feature makes Invisalign one of the most discreet
orthodontic options.
Less hassle with oral hygiene:
Because the aligners are removable, you maintain oral
hygiene as usual, which is way better during the course of treatment.
No food restriction:
With invisalign aligners, you can take them off to eat any
kind of food. Nothing like a fear of damaging them exists.
More comfortable:
The aligners are made of smooth plastic, which causes less
irritation inside the mouth compared to the metal braces.
Disadvantages of Invisalign:
Longer treatment time:
Invisalign generally takes months longer to achieve the same
result as traditional metal braces.
Requires diligence:
The aligners need to be worn at least 22 hours a day and,
after eating, need to be replaced by the patient.
Not especially good for bad cases:
Although Invisalign will be able to treat most moderate
orthodontic problems, this line of treatment is actually not considered
equipped enough to take on worse teeth and misaligned bites.
Pricier:
Invisalign treatment usually tends to be more expensive when
compared to traditional metal braces; sometimes it indeed is considerably so.
Braces vs. Invisalign
The selection of the two obviously remains a dilemma. Just
how do you choose between brace or Invisalign for your dental needs? The
following are some key factors to consider:
This would determine the severity of the orthodontic
problems. In case one has a really acute case of teeth being crooked, crowded,
or misaligned, traditional braces would be wiser since they are able to do more
force to move teeth. Invisalign is generally better suited for mild to moderate
orthodontic problems.
- Appearance: If the looks of your treatment in orthodontia
are a big deal to you, this is probably where the nearly invisible, crystal
clear aligners of the Invisalign system will be. Braces—especially metal
ones—are far more conspicuous.
- Oral hygiene: If the patient has a difficult time fulfilling
their duties in brushing and flossing around their braces, then Invisalign
might be the better option, simply because you can remove the aligners in order
to clean your teeth.
- Lifestyle: It is removable; thus, Invisalign works
particularly well for people on the move, busy in sporting activities, or
playing wind instruments. If you know best that after eating, you will forget
to wear the aligners back, then the braces might work out better.
- Cost: Braces will always be cheaper, but again, it is the
cost and total treatment depending on the scope of the case and where you
reside.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer; it will boil down to your individual dental needs, tastes, and the kind of life you lead. You should consult an experienced orthodontist who has looked at your case specifically and can help you decide on which treatment plan will best suit you. Whichever route one chooses, however, he should always keep in mind that orthodontic treatment is a long-term proposition, requiring much dedication and effort on the part of the patient to attain good results.
Be prepared to strictly follow what your orthodontist instructs, be scrupulous with oral hygiene, and avoid habits that may damage appliances. Adopt this attitude, and you shall find yourself well on your way to having a healthier and straighter smile.
Please book an appointment with the Best Dentist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.
