Types of Braces
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the traditional style of braces which use metal brackets adhered to your teeth with metal archwires connecting the brackets. Coloured rubber bands are sometimes used to apply added force.
Ceramic Braces
Similar to metal braces, ceramic braces use brackets and wires to reposition your teeth. However, ceramic braces are made from clear plastic brackets and tooth-coloured archwires, which allow them to blend more easily with your teeth and appear less noticeable.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are another discreet orthodontic system that is made of the same materials as metal braces, but they are adhered to the back of your teeth, so no one will know you are wearing them.
How Braces Work
Braces work by applying constant pressure to the teeth and jaw to gradually reposition your teeth in the right space. The brackets applied to your teeth act as stabilisers, while the archwires apply force. Rubber bands are sometimes added if additional pressure is required to move stubborn teeth.
Following the initial application of the braces, you will have to visit your orthodontist periodically for adjustments to archwires to increase the level of force if necessary.
Benefits of Braces
There are a few benefits to wearing braces vs. invisalign.
Treat More Serious Issues
Braces are highly effective for treating a range of orthodontic issues and malocclusions from simple crooked teeth to more complex problems like crossbites.
Affordable
Comparing Invisalign vs. braces, braces are the more affordable option up front. However, you do have to factor in the costs of regular adjustments to wires and brackets and the potential cost of repairs if your braces get damaged.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign are a series of custom moulded flexible BPA-free plastic trays that are fitted to your teeth to correct misalignment. Invisalign uses state-of-the-art scanning technology to accurately predict the correct alignment of your teeth and produce comfortable custom aligner trays, and have successfully treated over five million people worldwide.
How Invisalign® Works?
You cannot compare braces vs. Invisalign in terms of functionality, just because they both effectively do the same thing; they realign your teeth gradually using pressure.
However, rather than tightening and adjusting wires over months, you simply need to rotate your aligner trays every two weeks and go for periodic check up with your orthodontist every 6 – 8 weeks to check your progress.
Benefits of Invisalign
For simple cosmetic correction, Invisalign offers many benefits over traditional braces. Here are some of the benefits of Invisalign vs. braces.
Comfortable
Invisalign are constructed of thin plastic which does not have any sharp edges that scratch or irritate gums and cheeks. Invisalign aligner trays also exert less pressure on the jaw for a more comfortable wearing experience.
Removable
Eating and oral hygiene can be difficult and take longer while wearing braces. Food particles become stuck, and many patients need to follow a restrictive diet while wearing braces to prevent tooth decay from poor oral hygiene. Invisalign only need to be worn for 20 – 22 hours per day so you can remove them when you eat and brush your teeth They are as easy to clean by simply rinsing under water.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Many patients feel self-conscious about wearing metal or ceramic braces, and this can impact their confidence and quality of life. Invisalign aligners are almost invisible and appear more aesthetically pleasing.
Faster Acting
Most patients will need to wear traditional braces for up to 24 months to see the desired results. However, Invisalign only needs to be worn for 12 months to help you achieve a winning smile.
Final Thoughts
The decision for braces vs. Invisalign comes down to you, the patient, and the complexity of your dental issue and your lifestyle. But when it comes to braces vs. Invisalign, Invisalign offers a greater number of benefits for treating simple cosmetic corrections. If the appearance of braces has been holding you back from a straighter smile, Invisalign is a good option.
If you need orthodontic treatment, call Beyond 32 Dental on (02) 9158 6334 to discuss the benefits of braces vs. Invisalign and together we can find the right solution to give you a beautifully straight smile and boost your confidence!
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