Traditionally, when people think of treating crooked or misaligned teeth, the first thing that comes to mind is a mouth full of brackets and wires. The idea of walking around with metal braces is a little too much for some adult candidates, though. Unsurprisingly, when a new treatment known as Invisalign was developed, it was immediately welcomed. But not only do people opt for these clear plastic aligners for aesthetics reasons. Many patients also prefer Invisalign because they enjoy the results faster than when conventional braces are used.
Comparing Duration of Treatment
Several factors affect the duration of orthodontic treatments. These include your age and the severity of your dental issue. You will be required to wear your conventional braces for 12 to 36 months. On the other hand, Invisalign often only takes between 12 and 18 months to straighten your teeth. During your treatment, you will be required to wear the aligners for at least 20 hours a day.
Typically, you will have to visit your doctor once a month or so for a quick checkup. During your dental visit, your doctor will see how well the aligners work, and you will know how much closer you are to achieving your beautiful smile. You can also expect to change your aligner sets every seven or ten days. This way, they will keep up with the shifting of your teeth. Changing your aligners is a critical part of your treatment. If you skip a scheduled appointment to change your aligners, it can potentially prolong your treatment.
Which Is Easier to Maintain?
In terms of maintenance as well as oral hygiene, Invisalign is more manageable. Traditional braces make brushing and flossing rather complicated because of the brackets and wires. Still, you can't skip either when wearing braces, as they're crucial in maintaining your dental health. Invisalign, however, only requires daily cleaning with warm water and toothpaste or crystals.
Besides, Invisalign plastic aligners are removable. This means that there will be fewer restrictions than wearing braces. You can remove your aligner tray each time you eat or drink. Just ensure that you brush and floss your teeth after every meal. This is essential in preventing any food particles from getting trapped inside your aligners.
Which Is More Effective?
Experts agree that Invisalign can treat most cases of bite issues and even complex ones. But this newer system may not always be the best treatment method for patients who struggle with more complex bite problems. For those who only deal with a minor bite problem, Invisalign usually provides a quicker solution. However, suppose your dental situation calls for a significant correction. In that case, traditional braces may be a better option to align your teeth and close any gaps in between them.
Invisalign is not always recommended for highly severe orthodontic issues. So, before you decide to proceed with this treatment, ensure that you speak with your dentist. At Marietta Smile Gallery, we will help you make an informed decision on which technique is best suited for you.
Find out if Invisalign is right for you, contact Marietta Smile Gallery in Marietta, Georgia at (770) 809-1500 to schedule your consultation today!