How to Choose between Invisalign and Traditional Braces
When it comes to straightening your teeth, you have options. The two most predictable and successful options are Invisalign, which straightens the teeth using clear aligners, and traditional braces, which use brackets and wires. Of course, each option has considerable pros and cons. In order to decide which is best for you, you need to weigh them yourself.
Advantages of Invisalign
The advantages of clear aligner therapy with Invisalign arise from their clear material and the fact that they are removable. Obviously, the fact that they are clear means that they are almost invisible. This makes Invisalign the best cosmetic option for teeth straightening.
Because Invisalign’s aligners are removable, you can take them out for special events like photo sessions, weddings or speeches. You can also remove them in order to clean the teeth, so Invisalign patients typically have better oral hygiene than patients do in traditional braces.
Disadvantages of Invisalign
The disadvantages of Invisalign aligners also arise from their being removable. Because you can remove them, and because they only work when they are on the teeth, a great majority of the responsibility for your orthodontic success rests on you, the patient. Put bluntly, if you don’t wear them, they won’t work.
Another disadvantage of Invisalign is that there are some limitations in the types of tooth movement it can accomplish. Complex cases achieve better success with traditional braces.
Advantages of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces use brackets (metal or ceramic) and wires attached to the teeth to “pull” them into the prescribed position. Because the fixtures of traditional braces are attached to the teeth, the success of treatment depends on the dentist, not the patient. Patients who know they would struggle to be consistent in wearing their aligners would achieve better success with traditional braces.
Braces are also capable of accomplishing more complicated tooth movements than aligners are. In many cases, braces also work faster than aligners do.
Disadvantages of Traditional Braces
Obviously, traditional braces can be unattractive in appearance. Many orthodontic patients in their late teens and adulthood find the idea of wearing traditional braces embarrassing.
The attachments on the teeth of traditional braces make oral hygiene difficult, so many people suffer from excessive plaque buildup during orthodontic treatment. That can cause bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.
The brackets and wires of traditional braces can also cause discomfort by rubbing or cutting the inside of the cheeks, lips and tongue.
More Questions about Invisalign vs. Braces?
Call Empire Dental Specialty Group today to schedule a consultation with one of our excellent orthodontists at either our Beavercreek or West Chester locations. We can answer any questions you have about your orthodontic treatment options and help you decide which is best for you.
