Invisalign vs Traditional Metal Braces

So your dentist has suggested that it’s time that you consider getting orthodontic treatment, and now its down to deciding whether to go with Invisalign or Traditional metal braces. These two treatment methods each have their own benefits and drawbacks, including cost and convenience. If you’ve never looked at orthodontics before you may be wondering which one to go with, and whether there’s any meaningful difference at all. The initial thing to know is that neither of these appliances are superior to the other when it comes to the produced results. The primary differences are cost, aesthetics, and in some cases appropriateness for the dental concern.

Traditional Braces

Lets start with the most common orthodontic solution, traditional metal braces. The majority of problems you’ll encounter that require orthodontic treatment can be addressed through the use of metal braces. Having been around for decades these braces have the benefit of standing the test of time. As a result are understood to reliably produce the desired results and are known to be effective for a range of orthodontic treatments. Those looking at braces have the following to consider:

• Visibility – Traditional braces are difficult to hide, though some color and design variances can make them more difficult to detect to the casual observer.
• Convenience – The inability to remove your braces means that there will be certain necessary changes to your diet. You also will avoid the concern of forgetting to put them back in or losing them.
• Comfort & Hygiene – Braces provide places for food to get stuck, and can be uncomfortable for new patients. There are options, such as wax, that can help protect your gums, cheeks, and lips. Hygiene will have to be more meticulous to ensure all debris is removed.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the most well-regard brand of clear aligning trays, a removable orthodontic treatment. These trays are generally more costly than braces. The come with a host of benefits that make them a popular choice for orthodontic patients.

• Visibility – Invisalign is very difficult to notice for the casual observer due to the transparent nature of the material. This means that most people won’t know you’re wearing them unless you tell them.
• Convenience – Invisalign can be removed for up to two hours a day, allowing patients to indulge in their favorite foods or just get a break from wearing them for a while. This also causes a risk of losing them or forgetting to put them back in, impeding progress.
• Comfort and Hygiene – These aligners are generally thought to be more comfortable than traditional braces. Hygiene concerns involve regular brushing and rinsing of the aligner, and avoiding foods and drinks high in acid and sugar that can seep into them. This can cause these liquids to be trapped against the teeth, speeding decay.

If you’re still considering whether to go with Invisalign or traditional braces, reach out to the Sunset Dental Group today. Our staff will arrange an appointment with either Dr. Amanda Rae Kronquist or Dr. Zakary Adam Kronquist at our offices in Santa Ana, CA. The sooner you begin your care, the sooner you’ll have the smile you’ve always dreamed of.