When it comes to straightening teeth, there are two main options: braces and clear aligners like Invisalign. Both are popular and effective, but they differ in their approach to realigning teeth. Braces attach directly to each tooth, making them more powerful than clear aligners. On the other hand, Invisalign is a teeth straightening process that uses clear aligners to slowly move teeth into their correct positions.
It is also removable, unlike braces. When it comes to speed of treatment, Invisalign can straighten teeth faster than traditional braces. Most patients finish treatment in one or two years, while traditional braces can take up to three years to produce significant results. This is because a clear aligner works to apply pressure to all teeth together, unlike each individual tooth, as orthodontic appliances do.
If a patient is disciplined with their aligners, clear aligners are determined to work faster than braces. However, the type of correction needed influences whether traditional braces or invisible aligners are faster. Children's teeth are complicated and may still be growing, so most health professionals don't recommend Invisalign for them. At the consultation appointment, dentists decide how to correct the teeth and create a plan to move forward.
Braces are harder to clean because of the wires and brackets in the teeth, so a person should expect to spend much more time with their teeth each day. However, for people who require severe correction or children who don't have the self-discipline needed to wear an aligner for more than 20 hours a day, traditional braces are the best option. While traditional metal braces require between 18 and 24 months, the average duration of treatment with Invisalign is 12 months. People with braces should not eat various foods, such as chewing gum, bagels, hard candy, and popcorn, because they can get stuck in brackets or even damage brackets or cables. For example, if you wear Invisalign and then realize that you don't want to wear aligners all the time or that your movements are too slow, you can switch to braces at no additional cost.
However, a brace specialist offers several benefits to patients who need braces that you may want to consider. Clear aligners and braces are two different dental options that people can consider when they want to realign or straighten their teeth. While metal braces are the most affordable option, you can also choose braces behind your teeth (lingual) and ceramic braces for a more discreet appearance. When it comes down to it, both Invisalign and traditional braces have their advantages and disadvantages. It is important for patients to discuss their options with their dentist before making a decision on which one is best for them.
With proper care and maintenance, both options can help you achieve a beautiful smile.
