Orthodontics vs. Invisalign? Which One Is Right for Me?

Orthodontics vs. Invisalign? Which One Is Right for Me?

When people have wanted to have their teeth, or their children’s teeth straightened, braces was always the way to go. Braces, or orthodontics, were the standard method, and then Invisalign came along. This now popular method offers an invisible alternative to braces, but it may not be for everyone. Here are some things you need to know to help you determine which treatment is best for you.

The Purpose of Braces and Invisalign

When teeth are crooked, or need to be rotated for a better function or appearance, braces or Invisalign can be used. Both of them can also be used to correct problems with the bite, and both of them will do equally well in performing these tasks.

The Appearance

The primary difference between orthodontics and Invisalign is that braces are often highly visible, but Invisalign is made to remain out of sight. Other than this, they both can accomplish the same goal.

When Orthodontics Is the Right Choise

Orthodontics is usually the less expensive option. Besides that, they are clearly visible and appear as a silver-colored wire across the top teeth, and another one running across the bottom teeth. Other colors and designs can be selected. They are glued in place, and need to remain there for about two years for the average person. Braces have an advantage in that they are often used as the preferred method when dental issues are more severe. They are able to fix problems such as correcting teeth that are crooked and also in closing gaps between teeth. They can also do it in a rather short period of time.

Braces require careful brushing and flossing in order to get in between the wires and brackets. A retainer may be needed to be worn at night. The dentist will need to be seen about every month. Because they are permanent during the treatment time, regular engagement in contact sports is not advised. Braces can cause some pain at times, and there may be some tooth discoloration. One more potential problem is that there may be some tooth decay because cleaning the teeth is more difficult and some spots may not be reached at all. Wearers of braces will also find that eating certain foods will be harder to clean out of the braces than other foods, thus limiting what kind of foods they can enjoy.

Why Invisalign

The treatment using Invisalign offers a number of other options that are not available with orthodontics. The system uses a number of trays that are made of clear plastic. This makes them more comfortable and less likely to irritate the mouth. The fact that the trays are removable solves a lot of problems that people have with braces. The obvious element is that they can be worn but will not be seen. This fact appeals to many people, especially to those who are conscious of their appearance, or who are older.

Because they are removed when eating, this enables Invisalign patients to be able to eat anything they want. It also makes cleaning the teeth much easier, but the trays will have to be cleaned daily. Another advantage is that they only require a period of 6 to 18 months to do their work.

In order to determine whether you should get orthodontics or Invisalign, you will need to visit top Beverly Hills Dentist, Bruce Vafa DDS. He can determine which method would be better, or your dental situation may enable you to make the choice for your smile makeover.

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