Which is Better Invisalign or Braces
Choosing Between Braces and Invisalign
Choosing the best orthodontic treatment for your child can be a difficult decision for many parents. Straight teeth not only improve the appearance of a smile but also contribute to overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean and preventing cavities. Orthodontic treatments can also correct bites and align the teeth and jaw. Two popular options for straightening teeth are traditional metal braces and Invisalign.
While both options can achieve the same result, there are differences in how they straighten teeth, which may affect the treatment process for a child. It's important to consider which treatment is best for your child's teeth. To make an informed decision, it's recommended to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both options before scheduling an evaluation.
At Cedar Grove Dental Group in Cedar Grove, we are here to help you choose the right treatment for your child's dental needs. Call us at (973) 857-0567 to schedule a consultation.
Metal Braces vs. Invisalign: A Comparison
While metal braces and Invisalign provide the same end result, it is important to understand the differences and similarities between the two.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are not just for children or teens; they are an effective dental correction option for patients of all ages. For many years, metal braces were the only choice for fixing crooked or crowded teeth. These braces consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth's enamel, with metal wires threaded between them to gradually shape and align the teeth. While the wires can be made to match the color of the teeth, they are typically metal/silver. Patients can also choose from a variety of colors to personalize their braces.
Metal braces are fixed in place for the entire treatment duration, making them a good option for patients who are worried about losing aligner trays or having to switch them out. Treatment time varies depending on the case, but on average, teens wear braces for about two years. Regular monthly or bi-monthly check-ups are necessary for adjustments and to monitor progress and address any issues that may arise.
Invisalign
Invisalign provides custom-made clear plastic aligners, known as "trays," that are tailored to each individual's mouth using 3-D imagery of their teeth. These trays are made from BPA-free smooth plastic for a comfortable fit and must be regularly checked and replaced during treatment for both teenagers and adults to properly align their teeth.
The Invisalign aligners can be easily removed while eating, drinking, and participating in activities without any interference or risk of oral injury. It is recommended to wear the aligners for approximately 21-22 hours a day for 6-18 months, depending on the specific dental issue being addressed. Follow-up appointments are scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks to change trays and ensure that the teeth are gradually moving into the correct position. Customization of the trays will continue throughout the treatment process to maintain progress.
“While metal braces and Invisalign provide the same end result, it is important to understand the differences and similarities between the two.”
Effectiveness
The decision between braces and Invisalign is based on personal preference and the specific dental issue that needs to be addressed. The effectiveness of Invisalign relies heavily on the patient's commitment to wearing the trays as directed. It is recommended to wear the trays for at least 22 hours a day for optimal results.
Braces have also proven to be successful for many individuals due to their durability and strength. Patients with more complex dental issues may benefit from metal braces to properly align their teeth. For those concerned about maintaining consistent wear of the trays, metal braces may be a more suitable option. With braces, patients can straighten their teeth without the need to constantly monitor and clean the trays.
“The choice between braces and Invisalign depends largely on preference and the issue that needs correcting.”
Invisalign for Specific Conditions
Invisalign is a great option for individuals with mild to moderate dental issues such as overbites, underbites, cross bites, gapped teeth, open bites, crowded teeth, and a mix of baby and permanent teeth. However, not all cases can be treated with Invisalign as some may be too complex.
Complex dental issues that may require traditional metal braces include early, late, or irregular loss of baby teeth, delayed eruption of adult teeth, teeth that do not meet properly, missing or extra teeth, incorrect jaw positioning, jaw-clicking, jaw-joint disorder, and respiratory or eating issues. During a consultation with an orthodontist, the patient's case will be fully assessed along with other factors to determine the most appropriate treatment. In some cases, the patient may have the option to choose between Invisalign and traditional braces.
“Invisalign can be helpful for those with mild to moderate dental issues.”
Preventing Teeth From Shifting
After getting traditional braces removed, most patients need to wear a retainer at night to prevent their teeth from moving. Failure to wear the retainer can result in teeth shifting and potentially needing further treatment to straighten them again. It is important to keep the teeth aligned after braces are removed, which usually requires wearing a positioner or retainer overnight. In contrast, Invisalign treatment typically does not require wearing a retainer after treatment since teeth tend to stay straight.
However, patients using Invisalign must still adhere to guidelines to ensure the trays remain safe, clean, and in good condition. Not following the guidelines can lead to teeth shifting and undesirable results at the end of treatment. If a patient loses or damages their Invisalign trays, replacements are available but may cause delays in treatment. Invisalign Teen includes replacement aligners at no extra cost, as it is common for teenagers to accidentally misplace or throw away their trays while eating or participating in activities.
“With Invisalign, patients do not have to wear a retainer after treatment as teeth generally stay straight after the course of treatment.”
Dietary Restrictions
Patients wearing braces should stick to "braces safe" foods to avoid damaging the braces or teeth. Foods like gum, hard candies, and nuts are usually not recommended. Invisalign patients, on the other hand, can eat whatever they want since they can remove their aligners while eating. However, it is still important for all patients to eat healthy and nutritious foods to maintain good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.
To take care of both braces and Invisalign trays, patients should practice good oral hygiene habits. For braces, this includes brushing teeth at least twice a day and using a water flosser or special braces floss daily. There are also other tools available for patients with more complex issues. Invisalign patients should remove their aligners while brushing and flossing, and make sure to clean the aligners thoroughly to keep them free of food particles.
