Both Invisalign® and traditional metal braces are effective ways to straighten teeth and correct bite misalignments, but what makes them different? Our Surrey dentists explain some ways that Invisalign and metal braces differ.
Unique Smile Goals
Each and every smile is unique and the treatment that each of our patients need to achieve their smile goals is different. This is why when it comes down to deciding between Invisalign or traditional braces treatment your first step will be deciding what features are your priorities.
Braces
Metal braces are the ideal orthodontic treatment choice for many people. Metal braces have seen many improvements over the years and are very effective at fixing complex misalignment issues, closing gaps and aligning teeth.
Correcting orthodontic issues such as gapped or crowded teeth and bite issues with braces typically takes between 18 months to 3 years. Nonetheless, you will begin to notice a difference within a relatively short period of time.
Over the course of your orthodontic treatment with braces, you will need to attend frequent adjustment appointments and may need to give up some foods that could damage your braces such as popcorn and hard crunchy foods.
When deciding between orthodontic treatment options, many adults feel that they would be very self-conscious about wearing traditional metal braces.
Invisalign
Invisalign custom aligners are made from thin clear plastic, making them almost completely invisible when worn. That mean's fewer people will notice that you're straightening your teeth. The thin clear aligners allow you to enjoy the appearance of your smile as it evolves.
Clear aligners are also removable so there is no need to give up any of the foods you love to eat. Whether you're on a date night at the movies, or at a business lunch, just remove your aligners and place them in their handy case while you enjoy all of your favourite foods.
Comfort is bound to be one of your main considerations when choosing an orthodontic treatment option. Many people find that Invisalign's smooth plastic aligners cause less irritation than the wires and brackets that come along with traditional braces.
Although Invisalign can treat many orthodontic issues, clear aligners are most often used to treat less severe and less complex misalignment problems. So that Invisalign tends to be considered a more gentle and less invasive treatment option.
In the end, the treatment you choose to straighten your smile will depend upon your personal preferences balanced with the severity and complexity of your orthodontic issue.