Invisalign vs Braces: What Is Best for You

Sometimes, people get confused about which type of orthodontic treatment to go for. The common areas of interest involve the popularly used metal braces and the nearly invisible Invisalign, and people often ask questions like which one is more effective? Or which one is more affordable?

No matter the different options available in the world of orthodontic treatment, people would always want to choose the best treatment and one that will do the best job. This is why the popular choice is always between these 2.

Here at Smile Works Dental, we help our patients get the best possible orthodontic treatment by helping them choose the most suitable treatment option. Get in touch with us if you need an Invisalign provider in London. Nonetheless, you can get treatment for orthodontic problems no matter the option you choose. It all depends on the severity of your case and the type of treatment you need.

Below are the differences between Invisalign and metal braces.

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  Basics of treatment

Both methods are designed to straighten teeth and also improve your smile and overall oral health.

The metal braces consist of a metal bracket that is adhered to each individual tooth, and they are connected by a wire that is meant to be tightened in a way that each tooth will be adjusted gradually into its proper place. The wire is held in place by small rubber bands that come in different colours

Invisalign, on the other hand, does not use wires and brackets to straighten your teeth. Instead, it uses a series of clear, customised and removable aligners. Invisalign has not been around for as long as traditional metal braces; however, they are as effective as traditional metal ones.

• Traditional metal braces

The traditional metal braces are the most common and widely used form of braces. One of the major differences between traditional metal braces and Invisalign is that metal braces are not removable. Despite this, they are just as efficient at fixing complex issues.

While the time it takes for treatment to be completed can vary from patient to patient, the average treatment time for braces is from 18 months to 3 years. Fortunately, however, you will see the difference and signs of improvement early enough as your treatment goes on. Seeing the results can give you a confidence boost and also encourage you to remain on course.

Unfortunately, people tend to shy away from braces because of the amount of maintenance that goes into the treatment plan. With metal braces, you would have to avoid some foods, and the wires and brackets will have to be adjusted from time to time. Additionally, flossing and brushing can be a problem as it is not easy to navigate around a mouth full of wires. Fortunately, there are a number of accessories that are available to make your oral hygiene routine easier. Also, the majority of issues that arise can be resolved at home with simple tricks.

Patients who are undergoing treatment using metal braces will have to schedule follow-up visits every 4 -8 weeks for adjustments. These adjustment visits will involve changing the bands that are attached to the brackets, and the wire can also be changed or tightened. The appointment should only take about 30 minutes. After each appointment, there may be some residual soreness; however, it should subside within a day or two.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular treatment option for many people, and this is because the Invisalign aligners are invisible and removable. This means you can remove the aligner to eat, drink, brush, floss or for a special occasion. Because the aligners are removable, you get to eat and drink anything you want without having to worry about loosening or breaking a wire and bracket.

The clear aligners are nearly invisible, and depending on how severe your case is, you might get just a few trays or as many as 48 trays. You will be instructed on how to use them and when to use them. The treatment time for Invisalign is between 6 – 18 months, however, this can vary depending on how serious the condition is. Note that you are expected to wear your aligners for 20 -22 hours daily because any inconsistencies can prolong the time of your treatment.

You also have to schedule office visits and appointments every 4 – 6 weeks. At each visit, you will be able to see how much progress you have made and how closer you are to achieving your perfect smile. You are expected to switch out aligner trays every 1 – 2 weeks so that the shifting process remains consistent. This is very crucial because skipping an appointment or failing to change out aligner trays when you should can also prolong the treatment time.

It does not matter the treatment option you choose, what matters is the end result. Are you at a loss on which treatment option will be suitable for you? If you are, then contact one of London’s finest Invisalign providers at Smile Works Dental Clinic, and we will help you find the right orthodontic treatment.