If you need to straighten your teeth or correct a bite issue you’re probably weighing up the pros and cons of invisible braces vs metal braces. Years ago patients didn’t have many orthodontic treatment options but by today’s standards, there are plenty of teeth straightening appliances to choose from. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of invisible and metal braces, and what you can expect from a course of treatment of each.
The Importance Of Straightening Your Teeth
Both invisible and metal braces have been through rigorous testing and approval processes, and both offer you the ability to straighten crooked teeth and correct bite problems. Straightening your teeth is not just about the aesthetics of a beautiful smile although we know that’s important for most patients.
Having straight teeth is an investment in your future dental health, because straight teeth are easier to keep clean than crooked teeth, which are more susceptible to dental decay. Straightening your teeth adds to your sense of self confidence and makes you feel less self conscious about your smile.
Ultimately what works best for you will be a decision you arrive at in conjunction with your dental professional once you have been assessed and your needs have been taken into account. What’s most important is that you straighten your teeth for better long term oral health.
The Pros Of Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces have been around for decades – and for good reason: they really do work well. A course of treatment with metal braces will straighten crooked teeth and correct most bite issues.
Metal braces are generally the most cost-effective orthodontic option too and, even though many patients aren’t keen on the aesthetics of wearing them, their design has been refined to be more streamlined and less noticeable than they were years ago.
The Cons Of Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are considered to be less comfortable than some of the more modern options available. Because they work on a system of pressure, patients find them tight to wear, and this sensation does get worse every time you need to have them adjusted by your dental practitioner.
Metal braces also tend to be more time-consuming because they need to be adjusted as your teeth shift into place. When your teeth move into the correct positions,, they change the pressure system that the wires and brackets are keeping in place and need to be tightened in order to maintain it.
Understanding Invisible Braces
Also known as aligners, invisible braces have grown in popularity because they are so discreet, especially among older adolescents and adults who want to correct their smiles. While they are not fully invisible, they are very discreet, and are made out of special plastic that makes them virtually imperceptible to the people around you.
Unlike metal braces, aligners do not need to be adjusted by a dental professional on a regular basis. This is because your dental practitioner will map out the different positions that your teeth need to shift into at the beginning of your treatment, and give you different sets of aligners that you will change every two weeks. Instead of having the orthodontics adjusted, you will simply use a new set. This gives you much more free time and no obligation to touch base with a professional every two weeks.
Unlike other braces invisible braces can be removed, and they must be taken out for eating and drinking. Even though you are not advised to remove them unnecessarily, most patients find that not having the restriction of not being able to remove them is very liberating. It is important that you wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours per day, in order to meet your treatment milestones.
In terms of disadvantages, the benefits of invisible braces do come with a higher price tag than metal braces.
Generally, treatment plans with invisible braces take a similar period of time to metal braces.
Wearing Your Retainer After Orthodontic Treatment
Regardless of which orthodontic appliance you opt for, you are likely to be given a retainer to wear at night, to ensure your teeth do not shift back into their former positions. This is a very important final step in your treatment plan and can set you back if you do not do it.
How To Begin The Process?
Your first step is to consult with your dental practitioner who will assess your smile, and take some x rays and digital photographs. It is important that all your adult teeth have emerged before you begin orthodontic treatment. You will discuss your treatment goals with your dental practitioner, who will devise a recommended treatment plan and cost estimate, as well as any alternative treatments. If you have any queries or concerns, you should raise them before you begin treatment.
Remember that your health insurance may not cover the cost of your orthodontic treatment, or it may only cover a portion. You should check your individual plan details before moving forward with treatment.
Still have questions about invisible braces vs metal braces? Pleasure contact us for professional advice:
Phone: (02) 9158 6213
Pyrmont NSW 2009
Phone: (02) 9158 6756
Illawong, NSW 2234
Phone: (02) 9159 6083
Sylvania Waters NSW 2224
