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When it comes to straightening your teeth, you’ll always want to take the course of treatment that’s best for you. There are several methods of achieving straight teeth, all of which have their pros and cons. Invisalign® and braces are two of the most popular methods, and both have distinctive characteristics that set them apart. We break down the pros and cons of each for you here in the hopes that we can help you make a more informed decision when you take the plunge and decide which teeth straightening method is right for you.
Braces
Traditional braces are an apparatus made of brackets and wires that stretch over your teeth, gradually bringing them into alignment over time. Though they are visible on the teeth, modern braces are far less conspicuous than they used to be owing to the fact that the brackets (the
part that adheres to the tooth) are much smaller than they were in the past.
Gentle Dental also offers white ceramic braces, making them even less conspicuous.
Pros
– Traditional braces are almost always cheaper than most other options, meaning you don’t need to break the bank just to get the smile you want!
– If they’re going on, you may as well be proud of them! The brackets of the braces come in a variety of colours, so you can customise to taste.
– Unlike Invisalign® when you put braces on, they usually stay on until your treatment is complete. You likely won’t have to take them off unless your orthodontist decides that the alignment of your braces needs dramatic adjusting mid-way through treatment.
Cons
– Some foods are not so compatible with traditional braces – for example, apple can get stuck between the wires and your teeth. You may be restricted as to what you can snack on while wearing them!
– Braces are more visible, meaning that some patients may prefer an alternative purely for aesthetic reasons.
Invisalign®
The Invisalign® process involves the use of several clear, plastic aligners that are very similar in appearance to mouth guards. These aligners are usually worn in two-week increments, and apply gentle but constant pressure to the teeth during the time they are worn. After the two-week period is done, you will visit your orthodontist to check your progress and receive a new set of Invisalign® aligners for the next two weeks.
Pros
– The main reason that many choose Invisalign® treatment over braces is that of aesthetics. While the aligners aren’t completely invisible, they are barely noticeable upon first glance and give an appearance that is much more pleasing to some than braces.
– Eat what you want! Unlike braces, you are not logistically challenged when it comes to what you can eat. Because the retainers can be removed at will, you are not restricted which comes as a relief to many.
– Invisalign® aligners are, in most cases, simply more comfortable to have in your mouth than regular braces. They are made of plastic, whilst braces have wires that can take some getting used to.
Cons
– Invisalign® can be more expensive than other treatments.
– The aligners can cause discomfort in some cases, causing irritation to the gums and tongue. It can take a while to get adjusted to this if you are Affected.
When choosing your teeth alignment treatment, we recognise that the most important thing is choosing whichever solution is right for you. With a consultation at the Gentle Dental Centre, we’ll cover the details listed above and go even more in depth to make sure you get the smile you love, your way. Start a conversation with us today to discuss your teeth alignment options.