Braces: Traditional or Invisalign: Which is Right for You?
If you are thinking about having dental realignment, you will have a choice of orthodontic treatments open to you. A major decision to make is whether to go for traditional braces or Invisalign retainers. There are a lot of different factors to consider when making your decision, and the options available to you will depend on the nature of your dental problems. Below are some essential facts to bear in mind when considering orthodontic work.
Uses
Generally speaking, Invisalign retainers work best for low-level corrections such as mild overbites or slightly crooked teeth. Traditional braces, on the other hand, are effective in treating a wide range of orthodontic complaints and can be used to adjust more severely misaligned teeth. If you need major realignment work, your orthodontist is likely to recommend full braces. With lighter adjustments, both options will be open to you.
Effects
Both approaches are effective and with long term use will change the shape and alignment of your teeth and jaw. However, traditional braces are permanently fixed to the teeth for the duration of your treatment — the orthodontist will fit, adjust and remove them. This means that they are constantly working to realign the teeth, which gives a higher chance of a lasting positive outcome. Invisalign retainers, on the other hand, are removable; they only need to be worn a certain number of hours a day, and the patient can remove and replace them at will. This means that you could potentially forget or neglect to wear them, in which case long-lasting results are less likely to be achieved.
Appearance
Invisalign retainers are the more discreet choice aesthetically speaking. They are made entirely of clear plastic and are hardly noticeable when worn. Another advantage is that they can be easily removed, which means cleaning both your teeth and the Invisalign forms is quick and easy. Orthodontic technology has advanced, and traditional braces aren't the metal train tracks that they used to be. There are now more subtle braces available which utilise clear plastic and enamel so that they are not so visible. However, traditional braces will be fixed permanently to your teeth which can make regular, thorough cleaning a challenge.
Expense
Both options will burn a pretty large hole in your pocket, though costs will depend on the level of treatment required. In general, Invisalign is more expensive than the traditional method as they are necessarily more bespoke, moulded to each patient's bite form.
Before making a decision on which treatment to use, carefully weigh up the costs and benefits. Your orthodontist will be able to help and advise you on the best choice for your teeth.
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