For a long time, traditional braces were the treatment of choice for straightening teeth, and they are still very popular today. However, they are no longer the only option, and for certain people, they may not be the best option. Invisalign was introduced to the market in 1997 as “the clear alternative to braces,” and it has since become the preferred treatment for many patients and providers.
Most Wicker Park Dentist, on the other hand, offer both choices, allowing patients to select what is best for them. Here are four things to consider when making your decision.
Surprises vs. Knowledge
Straightening your teeth with Invisalign is no longer a secret. Using digital technology, your Dentist will create a 3-D computer model of your present smile, which will be morphed through the various stages of treatment, including the final results. Furthermore, you will change your aligners every two weeks at home, allowing you to monitor your treatment progress.
Traditional braces have a mysterious aura about them. Your Dentist will outline the problems with your teeth and what to expect following treatment, but you will be unable to see your final smile. The braces will stay on your teeth the entire time, and your Dentist will modify them as needed. This means that when they’re taken out, you’ll have a spectacular reveal, replete with the first glance at your new grin in the mirror.
Which is better for you will be determined by your personality. Braces are a good option if you like a little mystery and are willing to put your treatment completely in the hands of the Dentist. Invisalign is the superior option if you want to know what to expect and track your progress during treatment.
Lifestyle Factors
Are you someone who prefers to delegate tasks to professionals? Your Dentist handles all of the work with traditional braces. All you have to remember is which foods are prohibited, when your appointments are, and which circumstances, such as a popped wire, necessitate an emergency Dental visit.
Do you prefer to be in charge of your own treatment? You have complete control with Invisalign. Because the aligners are removable, you can eat whatever you want. You’ll be responsible for replacing your aligners at home every two weeks or as directed, and for wearing them for the required number of hours each day (typically 20 to 22). You must also take care not to lose your aligners when they are removed from your mouth. You’ll only see the Dentist every four to six weeks for progress checks.
Costs to Consider
Invisalign was formerly more expensive than braces, but this is beginning to change. Invisalign is a simple, upfront pricing scheme that includes all aligners and office visits, whereas braces must include the fees of modifications and emergency appointments. Additionally, cosmetic improvements like coloured metal might raise the price of braces. Six free replacement aligners are included in the purchasing of the Invisalign Teen system.
Your dental insurance may or may not cover a portion of the cost of braces or Invisalign. For both alternatives, our office staff can contact your insurance carrier to determine your out-of-pocket payments.
Comfort
Invisalign is the clear winner when it comes to dental comfort. When metal braces are first put on, they can be painful, and they can be painful again with each adjustment. They have the ability to scrape and cut the inside of the mouth as well.
The smooth, medical-grade aligners from Invisalign have no rough edges. It’s typical to have some discomfort when the aligners are first placed on the teeth, but the gradual moving of the teeth with each new set of aligners is significantly less painful than having braces changed.
Aesthetics
The aesthetics of braces in a colorful hue may appeal to those who prefer making a striking fashion statement. Those with lower self-esteem, on the other hand, may not necessarily wish to show a mouthful of metal.
Invisalign aligners are transparent and nearly undetectable. If you want to keep your dental treatment private, have a special event coming up, or work in a field that requires aesthetics, Invisalign’s more subtle appearance may be preferable.