BRACES: FIXED VS INVISALIGN

Are you looking to realign your teeth and create a straight, beautiful smile? Braces may be the answer for you. Depending on your budget and dental health situation there are at least two types of braces you can get: Invisalign and Fixed braces. When thinking about which type of braces you may want, it is important to consider the costs, the actual procedure and your personal preference. In the end, one option may be better suited than another.

Occasionally, when you lose your milk teeth as a child and your permanent, “adult” teeth come through, they might not grow at the right angle or they may even grow with big gaps between them. Eventually this could lead to having lots of crooked teeth and a gappy smile. Fixed braces and Invisalign can help with that.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to straighten a person’s teeth gradually. These aligners are nearly invisible and are designed to be worn over the teeth, slowly shifting them into their desired positions. Invisalign is often chosen as an alternative to traditional braces because of its aesthetic and practical advantages.

Advantages of Invisalign:

  • Aesthetic Appeal:Invisalign aligners are made from clear plastic, which makes them less noticeable than conventional braces. They are a popular choice for individuals who wish to straighten their teeth without showing metal brackets and wires to everyone around.
  • Removability:Invisalign aligners can be taken out when eating, drinking, and for special occasions. This means there are fewer dietary restrictions than traditional braces, and you can maintain your oral hygiene routine.
  • Ease of Oral Care:Since the aligners are removable, it’s easier to brush and floss your teeth as you can clean them without any obstruction. This can help maintain better overall oral health during treatment.
  • Fewer Consultations:In some cases, Invisalign may require more periodic in-person consultations compared to traditional braces. This can be more convenient for people with busy schedules.
  • Comfort:Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, comfortable plastic, which is less likely to irritate the cheeks and gums compared to the metal components of traditional braces.

Disadvantages of Invisalign:

  • Discipline Required:Invisalign treatment requires discipline. Aligners should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours daily to be effective. It’s easy to forget to put them back in after meals, and if they’re not worn as prescribed, it can prolong the treatment time.
  • Inconvenience of Removal:While the ability to remove the aligners is an advantage, it can also be inconvenient. Taking them in and out before and after every meal or snack can bother some people.
  • Cost:Invisalign can be more expensive than traditional braces in some cases. The cost depends on the complexity of the orthodontic issues being addressed and the length of the treatment.
  • Effectiveness:Invisalign is not suitable for all orthodontic issues. It may not be as effective as traditional braces for complex cases that require more significant teeth movement.
  • Patient Responsibility:Patients must care for their aligners to prevent damage or discolouration. Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential.

What are Fixed Braces?

Fixed braces, also known as traditional braces or orthodontic braces, are a dental treatment that uses a system of brackets, wires, and bands to straighten and align teeth. These braces are called “fixed” because they are bonded or cemented to the teeth and cannot be removed by the patient until the orthodontic treatment is complete. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of fixed braces:

Advantages of Fixed Braces:

  • Suitable for All Treatments:Fixed braces are highly versatile and can treat many orthodontic issues, from simple to complex cases. They effectively correct misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, and other dental alignment problems.
  • Possible to Achieve a Perfect Result:Fixed braces provide precise control over tooth movement, which allows dentists to achieve a more detailed and predictable result. This makes them a reliable choice for individuals seeking a comprehensive and precise solution to their orthodontic issues.
  • Various Types of Braces to Choose From:There are different types of fixed braces available, including traditional metal braces, ceramic (tooth-coloured) braces, and lingual braces (attached to the back of the teeth). This variety allows patients to choose the best option for their aesthetic preferences and lifestyle.
  • Faster Treatment Time:In some cases, fixed braces may lead to faster treatment times than alternative orthodontic options, especially for more complex orthodontic cases.

Disadvantages of Fixed Braces:

  • Aesthetics of Braces:One of the most commonly cited disadvantages of fixed braces is their visibility. Metal brackets and wires can be aesthetically unappealing to some patients, particularly adults and teenagers concerned about their appearance during treatment.
  • Brushing Your Teeth:Cleaning teeth with fixed braces can be challenging. Food particles can get stuck in and around the braces, making it essential to be diligent with oral hygiene. Special tools like floss threaders and interdental brushes may be required to clean effectively.
  • Diet and Food Preparation:Certain foods should be avoided or consumed cautiously while wearing fixed braces to prevent damage to the brackets and wires. Sticky and hard foods, as well as foods that can get caught in the braces, may need to be restricted.
  • Regular Consultations:Patients with fixed braces must visit their dentist regularly for adjustments and checkups. This can be perceived as a disadvantage by some individuals with busy schedules.

There are many types of braces now as teeth straightening options have expanded and fixed braces are no longer the only solution. Some braces include Metal, Ceramic or Invisalign.

Procedure 

If you’re thinking of getting Metal braces, then you will be looking at the conventional type with elastics and brackets. The whole process for applying Full Fixed braces may only take between 30 and 90 minutes. It involves polishing and preparing teeth before applying a glue for the brackets. Occasionally, you may feel tender after your braces have been tightened but normal painkillers can help with this. You will have to brush your teeth more often and with greater care than normal. Maintaining a good diet will help keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Invisalign – on the other hand – involves modern technology and combines it with the some of the most advanced digital orthodontic treatments. It allows your teeth to move gradually and in a predictable way. You will need less visits to a clinic than with fixed braces and as they are removable, you can continue to enjoy your favourite foods while remaining more comfortable every day. Some clients may have concerns about maintaining good oral health with braces. Invisalign allows you to brush and floss your teeth as usual and as the aligners are removable, you can clean them to assist in keeping a high standard of dental hygiene. For Invisalign, you will have an initial consultation with your dentist and this is your chance to discuss whether invisble aligners are right option for you. Your doctor will then map out your orthodontic treatment plan. They do this by either taking physical impressions of your teeth or using an advanced 3D digital image scanner. As your dentist maps out your treatment plan, they will be reviewing the exact movements and even the duration of your treatment. Using Invisalign is a gradual process and you may have to change your aligners every week to maintain the gentle shift of your teeth. Your checkups can be scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on your situation.

It is important to consider the differences in cost, pain, preference and look when deciding on which braces treatment you will choose. Rather than this,we also provide dental implants, cosmetic dentistry and more. To know more about our all dental treatments browse website or call Care Family Dental Toorak today for more information.

Making the Right Decision for Your Treatment

When choosing between the two options, it’s crucial to consider several factors like

  • Cost
  • Level of discomfort
  • Personal preference
  • Aesthetic considerations

At Care Family Dental, we understand that every patient is unique, and their orthodontic needs and preferences may differ. That’s why we offer both fixed braces and Invisalign as options for our patients. Our experienced dentist can provide a comprehensive assessment of your dental alignment, discuss your goals, and help you make an informed decision based on your circumstances. Call us to book an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Better, Fixed Braces or Invisalign?

Choosing between fixed braces and Invisalign depends on individual factors. There’s no definitive “better” option. Fixed braces are highly effective for orthodontic issues, offering precise control over tooth movement. In contrast, Invisalign’s clear aligners provide discreet treatment but may be less effective for complex cases. The decision should be based on your needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.

Do Orthodontists Prefer Braces or Invisalign?

Orthodontists’ preferences vary, as they prioritise patient needs. They recommend braces or Invisalign based on the patient’s orthodontic requirements, aligner compatibility, and patient preferences.

Is Invisalign Worth It Than Braces?

Whether Invisalign is worth it compared to braces depends on individual factors. Invisalign offers aesthetic advantages and convenience but may come at a higher cost. It’s worth it if it aligns with your needs and priorities.

Which are Faster Braces or Invisalign?

Treatment speed depends on the case’s complexity. In some instances, braces may be faster due to their precise control, while Invisalign can be quicker for less complex cases.

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