Invisalign Versus Braces
Two of the most popular treatment options for patients who need to straighten their teeth are Invisalign cary nc and braces. In considering which treatment option is right for you, there are a range of things to consider, such as the cost, the comfort, the time it will take to achieve results, and the effectiveness. The following provides an overview of both treatment options, with an explanation of the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Braces vs Invisalign
While both Invisalign and braces are effective solutions for straightening teeth and improving your oral health, there are several important differences between these two treatment options that you will want to consider before deciding which option is best for you, including the following:
- Color: Unlike traditional braces, which are typically silver (although patients can opt for color or enamel braces at an additional cost), Invisalign is practically invisible.
- Removable/Not Removable: One of the drawbacks or benefits of traditional braces is that they are not removable, whereas Invisalign can be taken out. The drawback to the fact that Invisalign can be taken out is that it increases the risk of patients not wearing them as much as they should to maximize the treatment process.
- Time of Treatment: Treatment time will vary for every patient, but patients who have traditional braces will typically wear them 24/7 for two years, whereas Invisalign patients will wear them for 22-24 hours a day for six to eighteen months.
- Maintenance: Traditional braces require regular brushing and maintenance, with a water pick being recommended. Invisalign requires the use of the Invisalign Cleaning system or rinsing and brushing the trays with lukewarm water.
- Research base: Traditional braces have been around for some time, whereas Invisalign has only been on the market since 2000, which means the procedure has less research supporting its efficacy.
- Follow up visits: Traditional braces typically require monthly follow ups, whereas Invisalign requires that trays be replaced every two weeks, with a scheduled follow up every three to six weeks.
- Comfort: Every patient will have a different experience, but many patients find that traditional braces can irritate their mouth and feel uncomfortable, whereas Invisalign does not typically irritate or rub the mouth.
- Cost: Traditional braces typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000, whereas Invisalign will range from $3,000 to $5,000.
Which Is Right for Me?
Hopefully this overview has provided you with helpful information to determine which approach is best suited to your needs. In general, both treatments are effective options, however, there are certain individuals for whom one treatment or the other is clearly favorable.
Traditional metal braces are not suitable for individuals who play rough contact sports, such as football or wrestling on a regular basis. They would be an ideal solution for individuals who have more complex issues, which Invisalign could not appropriately treat, or for individuals who will struggle with following the treatment plan.
Invisalign is not ideal for patients who have back tooth bite issues, bridgework, or who will not have the discipline to remain compliant with the treatment plan. It is perfectly suited, however, for patients who can exercise self-discipline, whose case is not uniquely severe, and for whom the aesthetic benefits are of significant value.
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