Invisalign Or Braces: Making The Right Choice For You
Updated 11/18/2020
There are several factors commonly used to determine whether traditional orthodontics or transparent tooth correction trays are right for you and your loved ones. Each product has certain strengths and weaknesses that will be discussed here in depth, so stay tuned.
Traditional orthodontics are made from high quality stainless steel or titanium. There are three main parts to your orthodontics. These include the brackets, which are adhered to the front surface of your teeth with a special glue that ensures they stay in place help to realign your smile. The next component of traditional orthodontics is the arch wire. The arch wire is interconnected between the brackets and guides your teeth to greater levels of alignment with one another. The last component of traditional orthodontics are the ligature elastics. These are the standard or colored rubber bands that hold the arch wires to the brackets. The ligature elastics are the part of the orthodontics most commonly replaced during each appointment with your orthodontist. The way the brackets are placed on your teeth exert pressure to allow your teeth to slowly move into a more uniform position in regard to one another and to the rest of your mouth. Traditional orthodontics have been known to fix problems of an underbite or overbite, which are incongruities of the front row of incisor teeth on the top and bottom levels of your mouth. Headgear is also a component of traditional orthodontics, but is not worn by all patients, and is only used where extreme correction of dental alignment is required. After the traditional orthodontics are installed for a period, the loose feeling of individual teeth will cease, and after a few more appointments, will come off and leave your teeth in good alignment. Traditional orthodontics are an option that takes a relatively short amount of time to be applied and can work on even the most misaligned teeth in most cases.
Pros: There are a number of colors to choose from, traditional orthodontics are used to correct teeth that are more misaligned
Cons: Have to be worn for 2 years, sometimes food can get stuck in your orthodontics, they are not removable, definitely visible
At Tri Cities Orthodontist, we're here to get you started with whatever it is you need help with. Invisalign offered by Tri Cities Orthodontist has some very important differences from braces that you should know about. Invisalign is a treatment using a series of nearly invisible aligners that are fully removable and comfortable to use. These clear aligner trays are made with 3D computer imaging, and more than 70% of orthodontists in Canada and the USA are certified to administer and service this new treatment.
These aligners are fully removable for mundane tasks such as brushing, eating and drinking. Being created with 3D computer imaging, they are more comfortable than traditional orthodontics and require less trips back and forth to the Orthodontist. The virtual treatment visualization tool offered lets the customer see a projected image of what his or her teeth will look like after treatment. (https://www.healthline.com/health/invisalign-cost)
Each set of liners is worn for two weeks. They are removed to eat, floss, drink and brush. Each liner moves your teeth just a little, so that the overall effect is greater alignment and a healthier smile. The total number of aligners is normally between 18 and 30 sets, with average time span of treatment being 9 to 15 months. Each person's teeth require specific attention, and so the process is tailored to your needs when you come in for an appointment.
Pros: Nearly invisible, fully removable, 9-15-month treatment length, fewer adjustments
Cons: Not for teeth that are very crooked, can work slower if removed too often.
Need help with choosing the right option for you? Please visit our website and contact us today. Here at Tri Cities Orthodontist, we're here to help.