Braces or Invisalign: Which is the Best Choice for You?"
If you're thinking of getting orthodontic treatment, you probably have many questions. Which one is more effective, affordable, and suits your lifestyle? While metal braces and Invisalign are the most common options, do you know which one is right for you?
Let's explore the key differences between the two and help you make the best choice for your smile.
At Smile by Sia, we prioritize patient education in the treatment process. We create customized treatment plans that cater to your unique needs and lifestyle. Curious about the difference between traditional metal braces and Invisalign? We’ve got you covered! Learn more and take the first step towards achieving your dream smile.
Treatment Basics:
Braces and Invisalign are designed to straighten teeth and improve overall oral health. Metal braces consist of a bracket adhered to each tooth, connected by a wire that gradually adjusts each tooth into its proper place. Small rubber bands, available in various colors, hold the wire in place.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners to straighten teeth without wires or brackets. Although it has been around for only a little over fifteen years, the Invisalign system is highly effective.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most commonly used form of braces. The most significant difference between braces and Invisalign is that braces are not removable. However, they are highly efficient at fixing complex issues and usually work faster than Invisalign.
Although treatment time varies, braces typically take between 12 months to 3 years. Nevertheless, patients can experience early signs of improvement, which can boost their self-confidence and encourage them to continue.
Some people avoid braces because of the maintenance required. They need to avoid certain foods, the brackets and wires need regular adjustments, and they can be challenging to floss around. Fortunately, there are accessories available to make oral hygiene routines easier, and most issues can be resolved at home.
Follow-up visits for traditional braces occur every 4-8 weeks. During these appointments, the bands that attach to the brackets are changed, and the wire is tightened or replaced. Generally, appointments last around half an hour.
Some residual soreness may occur after each appointment, but it should subside within a day or two. Skipping crucial appointments can prolong the treatment plan, so it's highly important not to miss them.
Invisalign
What makes Invisalign such a popular treatment option is its removability and invisibility. This means you can take the aligners out to eat, brush, and floss, or for special occasions when you don't want your treatment to impact your lifestyle. As these aligners are removable, you can enjoy your favorite food and drink without worrying about breaking brackets or wires.
The comfortable plastic trays are almost invisible and your treatment may include as few as 14 or as many as 48 trays, depending on your plan. We'll provide you with instructions on how and when to use them. The average treatment time is 6 to 18 months, but it can vary from patient to patient based on their commitment to wearing the aligner for 20-22 hours a day. Deviating from this can prolong the treatment.
For Invisalign users, office visits occur every 4-6 weeks to track progress towards your desired smile. Patients switch out aligners every 1-2 weeks to keep up with the movement of teeth, which is crucial to the straightening process. Skipping appointments or not changing out aligners when needed can prolong treatment time
Let Us help you decide
Whichever treatment option you choose, it's not just about improving your smile, but also enhancing your overall oral health. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a provider like Dr. Lord who is experienced with both braces and Invisalign. Our team has extensive experience working with both treatments, and we'll work with you to determine which method will best perfect your smile and teeth. At Smile by Sia, we believe in active patient involvement and will ensure you're part of the treatment plan we design.
If you're in South Yorkshire in the United Kingdom and considering orthodontic treatment, contact us today! Dr. Lord recognises that excellent dental and orthodontic care starts with world-class communication, and we excel in making our patients feel at home. Let us help you achieve your very best smile!