When it comes to straightening your teeth there is no need to use the old metal braces of the past like your children might have had to endure, as these days there are almost invisible ways of shifting crooked teeth into their right position like the use of Invisalign clear aligners.
Invisalign has been around since 2000, so it’s been tried and tested for some time already, at least enough for your De-ientes orthodontist to decide if it is suitable for you.
What are traditional metal braces?
These braces tend to be used for teeth that are more severely misaligned. They are made up of metal brackets that are cemented to the teeth and are tied together using small rubber bands and wires. They stay in place for the duration of the treatment and the orthodontist will adjust the wires and bands periodically as your teeth become straighter. They are not quite as noticeable as earlier forms, as the brackets are made to suit the colour of your teeth’s enamel. There are even some brace recipients that ask the orthodontist to make them stand out to be fashionable. However, as an adult you may not be too willing to follow this trend.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign tends to be used for those people whose teeth aren’t quite so crooked, so they aren’t necessarily suitable for everyone. They don’t quite have the same strength as fixed metal braces, but as they are unnoticeable, adults are often encouraged to use them as it takes away the problems that crooked teeth cause. The aligners are made from comfortable, smooth, clear plastic that’s BPA free. They are worn over the teeth and gently move the teeth into a better position. Every two weeks or so, or at a time decided by your Malmin orthodontist, you will have to make an appointment to change the aligners. The aligners are custom made after X-rays and impressions are made of your teeth so that an exact 3-D image is created of your teeth so that the aligners can be made to fit.
While both traditional braces and Invisalign may help to straighten your teeth, they both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages of braces are as follows:
• better for more complex crooked teeth;
• fixed in place for the whole time they are required.
The disadvantages are:
• not able to remove to clean teeth;
• food can get caught in between the brackets;
• visible to anyone at close quarters;
• some irritation from the wires.
The advantages of Invisalign are:
• removable for cleaning teeth;
• no discomfort felt from wires;
• aren’t visible to others.
Disadvantages:
• may feel some discomfort from tooth movement;
• need to remove before drinking or eating;
• need to brush following each meal to prevent staining;
• requires discipline as they must stay in the mouth for at least 22 hours.
Overall, when deciding whether to choose braces vs Invisalign it really depends on you. Invisalign requires more discipline, while braces may make you more self conscious. Your De-ientes orthodontist can help you make the right decision at an appointment arranged by you.
Comments