Invisalign VS Metal Braces

Are you worried about your crooked teeth? If your teeth are crooked or misaligned, you have probably considered straightening them at some point. There are two options available to do so, and each have their pros and cons. Both Invisalign and traditional metal braces can be used to fix teeth that aren’t straight. Deciding which to use will depend on a number of factors. In this blog post we describe the differences between the two and help you understand which is best for your needs.

What Are Invisalign and Metal Braces?

Traditional braces are made from metal brackets attached to the surface of the teeth and a wire that links the brackets together. Rubber bands are also used to provide resistance between upper and lower jaws during traditional treatment. Invisalign, in contrast, is made up of two clear plastic aligners. Dentists use Invisalign software, X-rays and 3D computer scans to fully customise the plastic aligners according to the shape of the patient’s teeth.

Traditional braces have been around for a very long time. Invisalign, comparatively, has only been around since 1999, so the long-term benefits of the treatment are harder to evaluate.

Metal Braces VS Invisalign: Pros and Cons

Invisalign aligners are incredibly easy to remove compared with traditional braces. Plastic aligners simply slip out of the mouth, whereas traditional braces are fastened to the teeth with dental glue, making them impossible to remove. Invisalign is supposed to be worn as close to 24 hours per day as possible and only taken out to eat and drink. If they’re not kept in, the work done by the retainers may be undone. Braces, however, work around the clock to straighten teeth.

Traditional braces require a dental visit every six weeks for adjustment. Invisalign treatments require a visit for adjustment every two weeks. This makes traditional braces far less work to maintain. However, braces, when knocked off during forceful eating, will require an emergency visit to the dentist. Invisalign aligners won’t require an emergency visit when knocked off.

Metal braces are extremely good at fixing complex dental issues. For example if a tooth needs rotating or back teeth need adjustment, traditional braces are a better option. Invisalign simply isn’t capable of restoring seriously misshapen teeth to a perfect even condition. Braces will often work faster than Invisalign to close gaps and align teeth. However, for less serious conditions, Invisalign is a perfectly appropriate treatment.

Maintenance and Hygiene

Braces are far more challenging to maintain than Invisalign. Cleaning out bits of food from in between brackets can be difficult at the best of times. Specialist teeth cleaning equipment can assist with that. Dental patients with braces will have to avoid certain foods like chewing gum, hard candies and other gummy treats which can pull at and remove wires.

Invisalign, in contrast, must be removed every time the patient eats. This is to avoid stains to the clear plastic aligner and food particles becoming trapped in the aligner, which is terrible for oral hygiene. Aligners do need to be cleaned frequently, but the overall process of brushing teeth with during an Invisalign treatment is easier.

Contact Sydney Park Dental

Overall, if you’re feeling self conscious about your smile, then Invisalign is probably the treatment option for you. Because they’re invisible, Invisalign aligners tend to make patients feel better about themselves. At Sydney Park Dental we can supply and maintain your Invisalign treatment if your teeth need adjustment. Contact our friendly staff on +61 2 8084 7170 to book your first appointment.