Are crooked teeth holding you back? If you hide your smile in photos or during online meetings, or if you feel self-conscious about smiling when you meet someone new, they might be.
If you've considered straightening your teeth but aren't sure you want to wear braces, read on. Today, we're discussing the differences between orthodontic treatment with braces and Invisalign® clear aligners. You can compare the two treatments to determine which is better for your needs, and learn the next steps to get started.
Understanding the Basics: How Each Treatment Works
First, we'll provide a quick overview of each orthodontic treatment and how it works.
Traditional Braces: The Reliable Standard
Braces are a proven, reliable method for tooth alignment and bite correction. Your orthodontist will attach clear or metal brackets to your teeth and run a wire through them that encourages tooth movement. The wire and brackets will need to be adjusted every two to three weeks to keep your teeth moving into proper alignment.
Keeping your teeth clean during orthodontic treatment is the key to success, and you'll need to modify your home care routine a bit to clean around brackets and wires effectively. You will also need to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could pull the brackets off your teeth, prolonging your treatment.
Invisalign Clear Aligners: The Modern Alternative
Invisalign uses clear, plastic, BPA-free aligners to straighten teeth instead of brackets and wires. The aligners are customized to fit snugly against your teeth and push them gently into alignment. The key to success with Invisalign is wearing your aligners as much as possible, even if they're removable. You'll achieve the best results by wearing them for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. Every two weeks, you'll move to the next set of aligners, according to Dr. Booth's treatment plan.
Is Invisalign as Effective as Braces?
When it comes to moving teeth, both Invisalign and braces are effective; however, for bite correction, braces are more reliable for severe cases. Invisalign can do some light bite correction, but for more complicated bite alignment, Dr. Booth would refer you to an orthodontist to learn more about braces.
Lifestyle Factors: Which Treatment Best Fits Your Huntsville Routine?
Now that you understand how each treatment works, we can take a closer look at the pros and cons of each.
The Advantages of Clear Aligners with Invisalign in Huntsville
Clear aligners offer some significant benefits that many patients appreciate:
- Freedom — Since aligners are removable, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign, and you're free to enjoy all the foods you normally love during your treatment.
- Easy Home Care — Brushing and flossing your teeth is simple, quick, and effective with removable clear aligners.
- Discretion — Since aligners are clear, they're hardly noticeable, and no one will realize you're straightening your teeth.
- Comfort — Aligners are smooth and comfortable to wear, as braces can feel uncomfortable or hard to get used to.
- Fewer Emergencies — Clear aligners don't generally have many emergency visits associated with them. A missing or broken bracket or wire can result in an emergency visit.
The Benefits of Braces
There are some advantages that braces offer:
- Versatility — Braces are reliable and can correct complex tooth or bite alignment.
- Ease — Since they're attached to your teeth, you don't have to worry about keeping track of braces throughout the day, as you would with removable clear aligners.
- Effectiveness — Adults who had orthodontic treatment as an adolescent may have quicker treatment with braces. Braces are an effective treatment option.
Why Choose Doug Booth, DDS, for Your Orthodontic Journey?
Dr. Booth has extensive experience helping patients straighten their teeth with clear aligners, and he can help you, too. The first step in determining whether Invisalign in Huntsville is right for your needs is to book an evaluation with Dr. Booth.
During your evaluation, Dr. Booth will take x-rays, photos, and measurements of your teeth and bite. He uses this information to create a treatment plan if you move forward with Invisalign. He will also review alternative options with you if clear aligners are not the right fit.
You will leave your evaluation with a clear understanding of your treatment options, the timeline to complete your new smile, and the associated cost. It is our goal to provide all the information you need to make an informed decision about the next steps for your smile.
You can request a visit with Dr. Booth online or call our team at (256) 533-4770 to schedule.