Orthodontic treatments have improved leaps and bounds over the years with a wave of new products and technologies helping people achieve improved smile functionality and aesthetics with less hassle and over a shorter timeframe than days past.
The stigma that reminds us of oversized headgear and other orthodontic appliances has been erased by high-end aesthetic appliances and treatments that make it easier for people to achieve beautiful smiles.
One of these treatments that often is heard around the block is the less detectable Invisalign. But, how is Invisalign different from braces and is it right for you?
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a popular brand of clear aligner and alternative to traditional dental braces. Conditions that can be treated using Invisalign include overly crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, overbite, crossbite, mild relapse (after traditional braces treatment), and simple bite irregularities.
What attracts many people to an Invisalign option is the attractiveness of the device itself. Dubbed “invisible braces,” clear aligners (also called clear braces) are computer-manufactured plastic appliances that straighten the teeth without compromising smile aesthetics.
Invisalign is removable and custom fit to your teeth, meaning it slides comfortably over the surfaces of your teeth. The aligners must be removed to eat, drink, brush, and floss, though dentists require they be in place a minimum of 20 hours per day.
Do I Need Braces or Invisalign?
Dental braces candidates are generally people who need to correct teeth that are crowded, crooked, protruding, out of alignment or have irregular spacing. Children younger than eight typically are not candidates for dental braces because their permanent teeth have not had long enough to develop.
Invisalign candidates tend to represent a smaller group than traditional dental braces candidates. This is primarily since Invisalign is more limited in terms of treating serious orthodontic cases. Whereas traditional dental braces can treat complex malocclusions, Invisalign might not be an option. However, for simpler orthodontic fixes, Invisalign offers a shorter-duration option called Invisalign Express. This is a less-expensive, abbreviated version of Invisalign.
Do Braces or Invisalign Hurt More?
Braces and Invisalign both should never cause more than discomfort to the wearer. In the early stages of both solutions, it is common to expect more discomfort as your teeth begin to adjust, however, this is usually passed in less than a month.
Who Do I Contact for More Information?
The decision to get braces or Invisalign is never an easy one. It requires the recommendation of your dentist and/or orthodontist to figure out what is the best solution for yourself and can be dependent on several different factors.
However, the planning doesn’t start until you call. Reach out to Applewood Dental today and we will be happy to walk you through what you need to know to get started with an orthodontic treatment right for you, starting with a consultation with one of our highly trained dental and orthodontic staff.