Are you having difficulty deciding between clear aligners and traditional braces? Our Winnipeg dentists discuss some of the factors to consider, including cosmetic concerns.
Choosing Between Clear Aligners & Braces
Braces vs. clear aligners such as Invisalign: a difficult choice! Fortunately, we can assist you. Consider the following facts about each option as you decide which one to choose to assist you in achieving a straight smile.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are transparent and custom-made to fit your smile. These removable orthodontic appliances are made of transparent plastic. They omit the brackets and wires associated with braces, resulting in a more discreet appearance.
You'll receive a uniquely tailored treatment plan that will assist you in achieving your smile goals. You will typically spend less time in your dentist's office during treatment because your clear aligners will not require as many checkups or appointments as braces do. Your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every four to six weeks to discuss your progress and general oral health, answer questions, and adjust treatment as necessary.
They may be comparable to the cost of braces or slightly more expensive, depending on your specific treatment plan. They will be difficult for a casual observer to notice on your teeth, and you will have no restrictions on the foods and beverages you can consume.
Clear aligners, on the other hand, must be worn for 22 hours per day and removed when drinking or eating anything other than water. Commitment to treatment, self-discipline, and meal schedule within the daily allotment of two hours for mealtimes.
Braces
There are two types of braces, traditional metal braces and clear braces.
Traditional Metal Braces
This is the most frequently used type of braces. Metal braces, which are entirely made of metal and are held in place by elastics, have undergone numerous advancements in recent decades as a result of advancements in orthodontic technology.
Braces gradually shift your teeth into their new, corrected positions over time by applying continuous pressure to them. As the pressure is applied and the teeth shift, the bone adapts to its new positions.
Today's brackets are more streamlined than in the past. Now, you're less likely to have a bracket irritate the inside of your cheeks or lips, as brackets have become smaller and more comfortable. However, some individuals remain hesitant to choose metal braces due to their appearance.
In this case, clear braces may be a viable alternative.
Clear Braces
Many patients choose clear braces as they are better able to blend in with their smile. They are not transparent; the brackets are constructed from tooth-coloured ceramic.
Clear braces come with a caveat: while they appear to be a cross between metal braces and clear aligners, they are more brittle and larger than traditional metal braces.
Additionally, they are more expensive. As a result, they are frequently used only on the upper front (most visible) teeth to save money.
Bear in mind that your gums may feel sensitive with these because the larger ceramic brackets make cleaning around them more difficult, which can result in receding or swollen gums if your toothbrush does not reach the gum line and enamel.