Studies show the perfect smile can lead to a better social life, career, and love life. Knowing this, it’s not surprising that many people are looking for a way to straighten their teeth and get one step closer to a beautiful smile.
If you’re interested in straightening your teeth, you have probably narrowed down your options to braces or Invisalign. The braces vs Invisalign question is one that stumps many people because both have a proven track record of getting great results.
In this short guide, you’ll find out the differences between braces and Invisalign and the pros and cons of each method so you can make an informed choice about which treatment is the best for you.
Braces: A Brief Overview
Braces are a series of metal or ceramic brackets that are fitted to your teeth and secured by glue and small rubber bands. Typically, you will wear braces anywhere from 18-24 months, however, you may need to wear them longer, depending on your age and the condition of your teeth.
Pros: braces are generally more affordable than other teeth-straightening methods and they are proven to straighten your teeth.
Cons: braces can damage the enamel of your teeth and cause tooth decay, gum disease, and decalcification if the teeth are not taken care of correctly. You won’t be able to eat certain foods with braces and they are painful to wear. They are noticeable and can cause the wearer to feel self-conscious.
Overall, braces are effective but they are traditional and lack some of the benefits of a more modern treatment.
Invisalign: A Brief Overview
Invisalign treatment involves wearing clear aligners that fit comfortably over your teeth. An Invisalign specialist uses teeth impressions, X-rays, and pictures to create a 3D image of your teeth, which allows them to customize your aligners for a perfect fit. For around 12 months, your teeth are gradually shifted into place, resulting in straight and aligned teeth.
Pros: Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic so they are less noticeable than braces. The clear aligners are also more comfortable than braces. They are removable so you can eat whatever you want as well as brush and floss your teeth easily.
Cons: the cost of Invisalign is higher than braces, which makes them unaffordable for some people. If you choose Invisalign, you need to be self-disciplined and wear them as directed.
Overall, Invisalign is the modern way to straighten your teeth but the aligners do come with some drawbacks that are not a fit for everyone.
Invisalign or Braces: Which One Is Better for Me?
Ultimately, the Invisalign vs braces question comes down to what is the best fit for you.
You may prefer braces because they are affordable or because they cannot be removed by someone who isn’t responsible enough for Invisalign. On the other hand, you might prefer Invisalign because they are less noticeable and more comfortable than traditional braces.
The best teeth-straightening method is the one that fits well with your wants, needs, and lifestyle.
Braces vs Invisalign: The Bottom Line
By reading this guide, you should have an answer to your braces vs Invisalign question. Now, all you have to do is schedule an appointment and get started!
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