Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

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Orthodontic treatments can be a big part of your decision to have a beautiful and confident smile. However, it can be a confusing one to make. There’s a big dilemma when it comes to orthodontic treatments: should you choose Invisalign or braces?

While Invisalign® has become a popular alternative to braces, many people wonder if it will be better for them to choose aligners over braces. Both have pros and cons, so how do you know which is right for you?

In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Invisalign and braces so that you can make the best decision for your situation. Keep reading to learn more!

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth using a series of clear, removable aligners. It is sometimes an alternative to metal braces and can be used to treat a wide variety of orthodontic problems. This latest dental technology has become a popular choice for both adults and teens.

Invisalign aligners are made from a comfortable, transparent plastic material that is virtually invisible when wearing them. These invisible braces can make a great fashion statement, and are more comfortable to wear. They are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while undergoing treatment.

Invisalign is custom-made for each patient, and the sets of aligners are designed to gradually move teeth into the desired position. The treatment plan is computer-generated to ensure precise results. It is a safe and effective way to achieve a beautiful smile.

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

Invisalign and traditional braces are two options to straighten teeth, but they have some key differences. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each option to help you make your decision.

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Pros of Invisalign

  • Uses clear, customized aligners that are almost invisible when worn
  • Removable for eating, drinking, and cleaning
  • More comfortable for some people because there’s no metal wire or bracket rubbing against the inside of the mouth
  • Requires minimal maintenance
  • Requires fewer dental consultations or visits

Cons of Invisalign

  • More expensive
  • Must be worn for 20-plus hours per day
  • Wearing new Invisalign trays may cause pain and discomfort
  • Some people find it inconvenient to be constantly removing the aligners for eating and drinking
  • Requires brushing after every meal before putting the aligners back again
  • Can’t fix severely misaligned teeth and crooked teeth

Pros of Traditional Braces

  • More versatile and can be used to treat a wide range of dental problems
  • Exerts more force on the teeth
  • Less expensive
  • Can be adjusted as needed to ensure an optimal fit
  • Gives the dentist or orthodontist more control over the tooth movements
  • Can be customized with colourful rubber bands

Cons of Traditional Braces

  • Very visible and can be quite conspicuous
  • Can be quite uncomfortable, especially when first placed on the teeth
  • Requires careful cleaning to avoid staining or discolouration of the teeth
  • May be difficult to brush and floss properly, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease
  • Difficult to eat certain foods
  • Requires numerous dental appointments for adjustments

What Are the Cosmetic Issues that Invisalign Can Address?

There are a number of cosmetic issues that Invisalign can address. However, it can only help patients with mild to moderate cases of the following:

Overcrowding

Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough room in the mouth for all of the teeth. This can cause the teeth to become crooked or overlap. Invisalign can help correct this issue by gently moving the teeth into their proper position.

Gapped Teeth

In addition, Invisalign can also be used to treat gapped teeth, which occurs when there are spaces between teeth. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, trauma, or tooth loss. Gaps can also lead to further problems, such as food impaction and gum disease. By closing the gaps with Invisalign, patients can help to reduce their risk for these problems.

Overbites

Invisalign can also be used to treat bite issues such as overbites. These occur when the upper teeth protrude too far over the lower teeth. Overbites can cause a number of problems, such as pain in the jaw joints and difficulty chewing. By correcting an overbite with Invisalign, patients can help to improve their oral health and function.

Underbites

An underbite is a cosmetic issue that can occur when the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw. While this is a cosmetic issue, it can also lead to problems with eating and speaking. Invisalign can address underbites helping patients improve oral and dental health.

Crossbites

Crossbites occur when the top and bottom teeth don’t line up correctly. The teeth on the upper jaw bite down on the teeth on the lower jaw, causing them to shift out of teeth alignment. This can cause a number of problems, including gum disease, tooth wear, difficulty chewing, and jaw pain. Invisalign helps by gradually moving the teeth back into their proper position.

Open Bites

An open bite is when there is a space between the upper and lower teeth when the back teeth are touching. An open bite can be caused by thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or genetics.

Also Read :- Tips for Eating While Wearing Invisalign

Invisalign helps to address open bites in a number of ways. First, the clear aligners apply gentle pressure to the teeth, gradually shifting them into the correct position. This can help close any gaps between the teeth and improve the overall alignment of the bite.

Additionally, Invisalign helps guide the teeth into a proper chewing position, which can also help close open bites. By repositioning the teeth and correcting the bite, Invisalign can effectively address open bites and improve the function and appearance of the smile.

How Does Invisalign Straighten the Teeth?

Invisalign works by applying gentle, consistent pressure to teeth. Over time, this pressure shifts the teeth into the desired position.

The Invisalign system is designed to apply just the right amount of pressure to slowly and safely shift teeth. As your treatment progresses from one stage to the next, you’ll notice your teeth gradually moving into place. And before you know it, you’ll have the straight teeth you’ve always wanted!

Does Invisalign Work Faster than Braces?

When it comes to straightening teeth, dental braces have been the go-to treatment for many years. However, Invisalign has become a popular alternative in recent years. So, which treatment is right for you? And does Invisalign work faster than braces?

Braces are typically recommended for more severe cases of misalignment, while Invisalign is best suited for mild to moderate cases. That being said, both treatments can be effective in straightening teeth and achieving desired results. The main difference is that braces work by using metal brackets and wires to gradually shift teeth into place, while Invisalign uses clear aligners that are custom-made to fit your mouth.

As far as which dental treatment works faster, there is no clear answer. Braces generally tend to be quicker in cases of severe misalignment, while Invisalign may be faster in cases of milder misalignment.

Ultimately, the best way to determine which treatment is right for you is to consult with an experienced dentist who can evaluate your case and recommend the best course of action.

How Long Should You Wear Your Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners are worn for 20-22 hours per day, and you can remove them to eat, drink, brush, and floss your teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before being replaced with the next set in the series. As you wear each set, your teeth gradually move into place.

The length of the entire treatment process depends on how much your teeth need to move. Most people finish treatment in 9 to 15 months, but the treatment time can take longer or shorter depending on your case.

How Long Do Invisalign Results Usually Take?

If you’re considering Invisalign to help straighten your teeth, you’re probably wondering how long it will take to see results. There is no definite answer to the question because it depends on a number of factors.

The length of time it takes to see results with Invisalign varies from person to person, but most people will start to see a noticeable difference within a few months. However, it typically takes 9-18 months to achieve full results.

The exact timeline depends on the severity of the crowding or spacing issue being addressed. For example, patients who are only correcting minor alignment issues may see results in as little as 6 months, while those with more complex cases, such as severe crowding, may need to wear their aligners for up to 2 years.

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, it’s important to keep in mind that results take time. It usually takes months and months of treatment. However, most patients are thrilled with the outcome of their treatment and feel that the wait was well worth it.

Is There Any Food You Need to Avoid with Invisalign?

You might be wondering what sort of foods you’ll need to avoid while wearing your clear aligners. After all, traditional metal braces make it difficult to eat certain foods and come with food restrictions, and you don’t want to damage your Invisalign aligners because they don’t come cheap.

Although you can remove your Invisalign when eating, fortunately, there are only a few foods that you’ll need to avoid when undergoing treatment. These include:

  • Sticky foods: These can cause the aligners to loosen or warp. Foods like caramel or gum should be avoided.
  • Chewy foods: These foods can be a problem as they can cause the aligners to loosen.
  • Hard foods: These can crack or chip the aligners. Foods like nuts or hard candy should be avoided.
  • Acidic foods: These foods can damage the enamel on your teeth. Foods like citrus fruits or vinegar should be avoided.

Once your treatment is complete, you’ll be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods without worrying about damaging your teeth.

Possible Problems with Invisalign

If you’re considering Invisalign, it’s important to be aware of the possible problems that can occur with this type of braces. While Invisalign is generally safe and effective, there are a few potential risks to be aware of.

Gum and Teeth Irritation

One of the most common problems with Invisalign is that the aligners can irritate the gums and teeth. This is usually because the aligners are constantly rubbing against the gums and teeth. This can often be alleviated by simply wearing the aligners for a shorter period of time each day.

Increase in Cavities

Another potential problem with Invisalign is that it can cause an increase in cavities. This is because the aligners can trap food particles and bacteria against the teeth, leading to cavities. To avoid this, it’s important to brush and floss regularly and to see your dentist for regular checkups.

Invisalign Break or Crack

Finally, there is a risk that the Invisalign aligners can break or crack. But while breaks and cracks are rare, it’s important to be aware of this possibility. It’s important to give your aligners proper care. If an aligner breaks or cracks, it’s important to see your dentist immediately so they can replace it.

Final Thoughts

So, which treatment is right for you – Invisalign or braces? Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it ultimately comes down to what’s important to you.

If you want a discreet option that still offers great results, go with Invisalign. But if you have a severe orthodontic case, you need a more traditional orthodontic experience with frequent dental visits. In this case, traditional braces may be the better choice.

No matter your decision, we can help get you started on the path to a perfect smile and straighter teeth! If you’re undecided or want more information about aligner therapy or other options, our team at Ashburton Dental Centre can help. You can book an appointment through our website or call (08) 9516-1003 to get started today.

Disclaimer – Use At Your Own Risk :- The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. Any action you take upon the information on these blogs are strictly at your own risk. We will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with the use of the information from these blogs.

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