Is Invisalign® Better Than Braces?
Whether you are a teenager or an adult, you want a straight, healthy smile. But we aren’t all genetically designed for straight teeth and sometimes injuries can cause misaligned teeth. There are two basic options for straightening teeth: traditional metal braces or Invisalign® plastic appliances. Both do a good job, so why choose one over the other?
What conditions are right for straightening?
You might have one of several conditions that make you a candidate for teeth straightening. You could have an overbite, where the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth; an underbite, where the bottom teeth overlap the top teeth; a crossbite, where both of the previous conditions apply; crowded teeth; gaps between teeth; or an open bite, where some of the teeth don’t meet the others where they should. All of these conditions mean that you may be a candidate for straightening.
How is Invisalign® different than traditional braces?
Both methods of braces straighten teeth, and in a comparable time span. But there are differences in the ease of use of the two methods. First, traditional braces are made of metal, which can be hard on lips and gums. Invisalign® is made of non-PBA plastic that is smooth and easier on your mouth. Additionally, you do not have food restrictions with Invisalign®. You can remove the apparatus whenever you desire (although you should wear it 20-22 hours a day) and can brush and floss as usual. You only need to be seen in the dentist’s office once every four to six weeks, and to top it all off, your apparatus is virtually invisible. Most people will not even realize you’re being treated (except they may notice you smile more!). The cost is comparable between the two methods, and both are covered by most insurance.
Fits your lifestyle.
Invisalign® braces fit your lifestyle. You can remove the apparatus whenever you want to, so you can continue doing the things you normally do. Got an important occasion coming up? Simply remove the Invisalign aligner for the occasion and then put them back in when you are done. However, most people won’t notice that you’re wearing aligners at all. Eat what you want and brush and floss as usual. With traditional braces, brushing and flossing can take up to thirty minutes!
Are there health benefits to straight teeth?
According to the American Dental Association, having properly aligned teeth can actually significantly affect your overall dental health. Bacteria cause tooth decay and gum disease. Without treatment, you could be facing mouth sores, tender and bleeding gums, possible tooth loss, and halitosis (bad breath). Mouth infections can also lead to other health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. Invisalign® gives you the confidence of a great smile and the likelihood of good dental health as well.
