Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Right for You?
Orthodontics are able to provide many benefits to both the health and appearance of your smile. Many patients choose Invisalign® for its practical and cosmetic benefits, but others may require traditional braces because of their ability to treat more severe issues. Drs. Clifford Degel and Carmen Every-Degel, can explain the benefits of Invisalign® vs. braces at their office in Queens.
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces consist of brackets attached to the front of your teeth that are connected with a metal wire. The metal wire is held in place by a series of rubber bands, which help the wire exert pressure on your teeth, and shift them into proper position. The treatment time for braces is longer than with Invisalign®, with the average treatment period lasting two years. For patients with bridgework, significant bite issues, rotated teeth, vertically misaligned teeth, and other severe alignment issues, braces may be the only solution.
The smooth plastic used for Invisalign® trays is virtually invisible, custom fit to your smile, and will not irritate gums or other soft tissues.
However, having a smile full of metal hardware can affect self confidence in children and adults alike. Braces remain attached to the teeth until the correction process is complete. This aspect means patients must avoid various foods and drinks that can damage brackets and wires. Brushing and flossing also requires extra effort to clean around the delicate hardware. In addition, braces require regular adjustments and appointments that can be prove painful and inconvenient. Traditional braces can also cause pain, sores, and discomfort from wires and brackets coming into contact with soft tissues.
Invisalign Results
Invisalign®
Invisalign® treatment uses a series of clear aligner trays to gradually shift your teeth into proper position. These trays are able to address a variety of concerns such as:
- Misalignment
- Gaps between teeth
- Crowding
- Bite issues
You will typically move on to the next tray in the series every two weeks, and have follow-up appointments every four to six weeks. The total treatment time takes about six to 18 months based on correction needs, with the average treatment period lasting about a year.
The smooth plastic used for the aligner trays is virtually invisible, custom fit to your smile, and will not irritate gums or other soft tissues. The trays are can also be quickly and easily removed. This feature allows you to eat all the hard, crunchy, or sticky foods you love, without having to worry about damaging any orthodontic hardware. You can also undergo cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening while receiving treatment. In addition, brushing and flossing will continue to be as easy as before.
Although Invisalign® is a highly convenient option, it does require dedication to the prescribed treatment plan. Patients need to keep trays in for at least 22 hours daily, removing aligners only during meals and when brushing or flossing.
Learn More
Orthodontic treatment does not need to include painful, conspicuous metal braces. To receive convenient, individualized Invisalign® treatment from the doctors at Astoria Dental Group, contact our office today and schedule a consultation..
