Is Invisalign Teeth Straightening The Answer To Your Dream Smile?
Got Crooked Teeth? Adult Teeth Straightening Options: Invisalign Vs Braces
Everyone notices a fabulous smile. Straight, white teeth look great and boost confidence. But the decision to straighten your teeth in adulthood is a big one. If you’ve been unhappy with your smile for some time, it can be life-changing to finally take the leap. But with advancements in teeth straightening solutions, you might feel confused about which treatment is the right one for you. Read on to discover some of the differences between traditional braces and Invisalign teeth straightening.
Aesthetics
Deciding to straighten your teeth in adulthood is exciting, but you may be concerned about how your teeth will look during the treatment.
Braces: metal or ceramic brackets are cemented to your teeth and tied together with wires and rubber bands. Even with enamel-coloured brackets, braces applied to the front of the teeth are always visible.
Invisalign: clear plastic aligners are custom-fit to be worn comfortably over your teeth. These are virtually invisible and are removable.
Treatment time and cost
This really depends on the complexity of each individual case but, on average, treatment with traditional braces takes two years. The average treatment time for Invisalign teeth straightening is one year. The costs for each treatment are comparable. Your trusted Brisbane dentist can discuss costs and any other questions you may have.
Pain and discomfort
Straightening your teeth does cause some discomfort; you are effectively moving the teeth which will always involve a sensation of pressure.
Braces: you can expect some pain each time your braces are adjusted. There is also the risk of mouth ulcers and irritation caused by the metal brackets and wires.
Invisalign: In the early stages of treatment, you may find that the aligners cause some pressure and discomfort as the teeth begin to move.
Day to day maintenance
Wearing any teeth straightening appliance requires some daily considerations.
Braces: You might consider avoiding certain foods (like hard apples) whilst wearing braces. Teeth can be difficult to clean after eating and a water pick is often recommended.
Invisalign: Your aligner must be removed before eating and drinking (excluding water) and teeth must be brushed after each meal to avoid staining. The aligner trays should be brushed and rinsed in lukewarm water.
Follow-up visits
Traditional braces require monthly visits to the orthodontist. Invisalign teeth straightening requires check-ups every six weeks. Once again, every mouth is unique, so your dentist can advise of the specific time frames required to straighten your smile.